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Fastenal

Fastenal opened its first fastener store in 1967 in Winona, Minnesota. Since then, it has greatly expanded its footprint as well as its products and services. Today, Fastenal serves its 400,000 active customers through approximately 1,600 branches, over 1,800 on-site locations, and 15 distribution centers. Since 1993, the company has added other product categories, but fasteners remain its largest category at about 30%-35% of sales. Fastenal also offers customers supply chain solutions, such as vending and vendor-managed inventory.

Fastenal Co

FAST TRACK GROUP

FASTENAL ORD

FASTIGHETS AB BALDR U/ADR by FASTIGHETS AB BALDER

FASTIGHETS AKTIEBLAET AKB by FASTIGHETS AKTIEBOLAGET

FASTLY CL A ORD

FAST CASUAL CONCEPTS INC by FAST CASUAL CONCEPTS INC.

Fast Casual Concepts Inc

FAST FINANCE PAY CORP by Fast Finance Pay Corp.

Fast Finance Pay Corp

FAST RETAILING CO LTD by Fast Retailing Co. Ltd.

Fast Retailing Co Ltd

FAST RETAILING UNSP/ADR by Fast Retailing Co. Ltd.

Fastbase Inc

FASTIGHETS BALDER B NEW by FASTIGHETS AB BALDER

Fastighets AB Balder

Fastly Inc

Fastned BV

DANIEL FLORNESS, CEO at Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>), reported a large exercise of company stock options on September 16, according to a new SEC filing.
What Happened: FLORNESS, CEO at Fastenal, exercised stock options for 50,000 shares of FAST stock. This information was disclosed in a Form 4 filing with the <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0000815556/000141588924023415//Archives/edgar/data/815556/000141588924023415/0001415889-24-023415-index.htm">U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission</a> on Monday. The exercise price of the options was $23.5 per share.
Fastenal shares are currently trading up by 0.78%, with a current price of $70.64 as of Tuesday morning. This brings the total value of FLORNESS's 50,000 shares to $2,357,000.
<h3>Delving into Fastenal's Background</h3>
Fastenal opened its first fastener store in 1967 in Winona, Minnesota. Since then, it has greatly expanded its footprint as well as its products and services. Today, Fastenal serves its 400,000 active customers through approximately 1,600 branches, over 1,800 on-site locations, and 15 distribution centers. Since 1993, the company has added other product categories, but fasteners remain its largest category at about 30%-35% of sales. Fastenal also offers customers supply chain solutions, such as vending and vendor-managed inventory.
<h3>A Deep Dive into Fastenal's Financials</h3>
Revenue Growth: Fastenal's remarkable performance in 3 months is evident. As of 30 June, 2024, the company achieved an impressive revenue growth rate of 1.76%. This signifies a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Industrials sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Insights into Profitability:
<ul>
<li>
Gross Margin: The company maintains a high gross margin of 45.06%, indicating strong cost management and profitability compared to its peers.
</li>
<li>
Earnings per Share (EPS): Fastenal's EPS lags behind the industry average, indicating concerns and potential challenges with a current EPS of 0.51.
</li>
</ul>
Debt Management: With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15, Fastenal adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.
Exploring Valuation Metrics Landscape:
<ul>
<li>
Price to Earnings (P/E) Ratio: With a higher-than-average P/E ratio of 34.87, Fastenal's stock is perceived as being overvalued in the market.
</li>
<li>
Price to Sales (P/S) Ratio: With a higher-than-average P/S ratio of 5.42, Fastenal's stock is perceived as being overvalued in the market, particularly in relation to sales performance.
</li>
<li>
EV/EBITDA Analysis (Enterprise Value to its Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation &amp; Amortization): A high EV/EBITDA ratio of 23.79 positions the company as being more valued compared to industry benchmarks.
</li>
</ul>
Market Capitalization: Boasting an elevated market capitalization, the company surpasses industry averages. This signals substantial size and strong market recognition.
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<h3>Navigating the Impact of Insider Transactions on Investments</h3>
Insider transactions should be considered alongside other factors when making investment decisions, as they can offer important insights.
Exploring the legal landscape, an "insider" is defined as any officer, director, or beneficial owner holding more than ten percent of a company's equity securities, as stipulated by Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This encompasses executives in the c-suite and major hedge funds. These insiders are required to report their transactions through a Form 4 filing, which must be submitted within two business days of the transaction.
Highlighted by a company insider's new purchase, there's a positive anticipation for the stock to rise.
But, insider sells may not necessarily indicate a bearish view and can be motivated by various factors.
<h3>Transaction Codes To Focus On</h3>
Taking a closer look at transactions, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/investing-tools">investors</a> often prioritize those unfolding in the open market, meticulously cataloged in Table I of the Form 4 filing. A P in Box 3 denotes a purchase, while S signifies a sale. Transaction code C denotes the conversion of an option, and transaction code A signifies a grant, award, or other acquisition of securities from the company.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/search/index?company_cik=0000815556">Check Out The Full List Of Fastenal's Insider Trades.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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Insider Trades

Trading Ideas

FAST

Options Movement At Fastenal: DANIEL FLORNESS Exercises Worth $2.36M

In the latest quarter, 4 analysts provided ratings for Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>), showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets, analyzed by analysts, offer insights with an average target of $68.25, a high estimate of $80.00, and a low estimate of $56.00. This current average has decreased by 4.77% from the previous average price target of $71.67. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1725645672_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study</h2>
In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive Fastenal. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Chris Snyder</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$72.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Butler</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tommy Moll</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$56.00</td>
<td>$56.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Volkmann</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$74.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Fastenal. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Unveiling insights, analysts deliver qualitative insights into stock performance, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Fastenal compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Fastenal's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Fastenal's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FAST/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Fastenal analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Get to Know Fastenal Better</h2>
Fastenal opened its first fastener store in 1967 in Winona, Minnesota. Since then, it has greatly expanded its footprint as well as its products and services. Today, Fastenal serves its 400,000 active customers through approximately 1,600 branches, over 1,800 on-site locations, and 15 distribution centers. Since 1993, the company has added other product categories, but fasteners remain its largest category at about 30%-35% of sales. Fastenal also offers customers supply chain solutions, such as vending and vendor-managed inventory.
<h3>A Deep Dive into Fastenal's Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization surpasses industry averages, showcasing a dominant size relative to peers and suggesting a strong market position.
Revenue Growth: Fastenal's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 30 June, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 1.76%. This indicates 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 Industrials sector.
Net Margin: Fastenal's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 15.28%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 8.45%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Fastenal's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 6.41%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15, Fastenal adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.
<h2>The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know</h2>
Benzinga tracks 150 analyst firms and reports on their stock expectations. Analysts typically arrive at their conclusions by predicting how much money a company will make in the future, usually the upcoming five years, and how risky or predictable that company's revenue streams are.
Analysts attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish their ratings on stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter or whenever the company has a major update.
Analysts may enhance their evaluations by incorporating forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, delivering additional guidance to investors. It is vital to acknowledge that, although experts in stocks and sectors, analysts are human and express their opinions when providing insights.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Ratings

Peeling Back The Layers: Exploring Fastenal Through Analyst Insights

Morgan Stanley analyst Chris Snyder initiates coverage on Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) with a Equal-Weight rating and announces Price Target of $72.

Price Target

Initiation

Morgan Stanley Initiates Coverage On Fastenal with Equal-Weight Rating, Announces Price Target of $72

Fastenal Reports August Sales Of $652.65M Down 2.3% YoY, Daily Sales Soared 2.1% YoY

A substantial insider activity was disclosed on August 22, as FLORNESS, CEO at Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>), reported the exercise of a large sell of company stock options.
What Happened: A Form 4 filing from the <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0000815556/000141588924022060//Archives/edgar/data/815556/000141588924022060/0001415889-24-022060-index.htm">U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission</a> on Thursday showed that FLORNESS, CEO at Fastenal, a company in the Industrials sector, just exercised stock options worth 45,744 shares of FAST stock with an exercise price of $23.5.
During Friday's morning session, Fastenal shares up by 0.34%, currently priced at $67.74. Considering the current price, FLORNESS's 45,744 shares have a total value of $2,023,714.
<h3>Unveiling the Story Behind Fastenal</h3>
Fastenal opened its first fastener store in 1967 in Winona, Minnesota. Since then, it has greatly expanded its footprint as well as its products and services. Today, Fastenal serves its 400,000 active customers through approximately 1,600 branches, over 1,800 on-site locations, and 15 distribution centers. Since 1993, the company has added other product categories, but fasteners remain its largest category at about 30%-35% of sales. Fastenal also offers customers supply chain solutions, such as vending and vendor-managed inventory.
<h3>Fastenal: Financial Performance Dissected</h3>
Revenue Growth: Over the 3 months period, Fastenal showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 1.76% as of 30 June, 2024. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the revenue growth lags behind its industry peers. The company achieved a growth rate lower than the average among peers in Industrials sector.
Insights into Profitability:
<ul>
<li>
Gross Margin: With a high gross margin of 45.06%, the company demonstrates effective cost control and strong profitability relative to its peers.
</li>
<li>
Earnings per Share (EPS): Fastenal's EPS reflects a decline, falling below the industry average with a current EPS of 0.51.
</li>
</ul>
Debt Management: Fastenal's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 0.15, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
Valuation Analysis:
<ul>
<li>
Price to Earnings (P/E) Ratio: The current Price to Earnings ratio of 33.59 is higher than the industry average, indicating the stock is priced at a premium level according to the market sentiment.
</li>
<li>
Price to Sales (P/S) Ratio: A higher-than-average P/S ratio of 5.22 suggests overvaluation in the eyes of investors, considering sales performance.
</li>
<li>
EV/EBITDA Analysis (Enterprise Value to its Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation &amp; Amortization): A high EV/EBITDA ratio of 22.92 reflects market recognition of Fastenal's value, positioning it as more highly valued compared to industry peers.
</li>
</ul>
Market Capitalization: Surpassing industry standards, the company's market capitalization asserts its dominance in terms of size, suggesting a robust market position.
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<h3>Why Pay Attention to Insider Transactions</h3>
While insider transactions provide valuable information, they should be part of a broader analysis in making investment decisions.
In legal terms, an "insider" refers to any officer, director, or beneficial owner of more than ten percent of a company's equity securities registered under Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This can include executives in the c-suite and large hedge funds. These insiders are required to let the public know of their transactions via a Form 4 filing, which must be filed within two business days of the transaction.
When a company insider makes a new purchase, that is an indication that they expect the stock to rise.
Insider sells, on the other hand, can be made for a variety of reasons, and may not necessarily mean that the seller thinks the stock will go down. 
<h3>Exploring Key Transaction Codes</h3>
When dissecting transactions, the focal point for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/investing-tools">investors</a> is often those occurring in the open market, meticulously detailed in Table I of the Form 4 filing. A P in Box 3 denotes a purchase, while S signifies a sale. Transaction code C indicates the conversion of an option, and transaction code A denotes a grant, award, or other acquisition of securities from the company.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/search/index?company_cik=0000815556">Check Out The Full List Of Fastenal's Insider Trades.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Insider Activity Update: DANIEL FLORNESS Executes Options Exercise, Resulting In $2.02M At Fastenal

In the latest quarter, 4 analysts provided ratings for Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>), showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The table below provides a concise overview of recent ratings by analysts, offering insights into the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and drawing comparisons with the preceding months for a holistic perspective.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts' evaluations of 12-month price targets offer additional insights, showcasing an average target of $67.5, with a high estimate of $80.00 and a low estimate of $56.00. A 5.59% drop is evident in the current average compared to the previous average price target of $71.50. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721055647_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Diving into Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Exploration</h2>
A clear picture of Fastenal's perception among financial experts is painted with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Brian Butler</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tommy Moll</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$56.00</td>
<td>$56.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Volkmann</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$74.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Manthey</td>
<td>Baird</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$69.00</td>
<td>$71.00</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 Fastenal. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Providing a comprehensive analysis, analysts offer qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Fastenal compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Delving into movements, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Fastenal's stock. This analysis reveals shifts in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
For valuable insights into Fastenal'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/FAST/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Fastenal analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>All You Need to Know About Fastenal</h2>
Fastenal opened its first fastener store in 1967 in Winona, Minnesota. Since then, Fastenal has greatly expanded its footprint as well as its products and services. Today, Fastenal serves its 400,000 active customers through approximately 1,600 branches, over 1,800 on-site locations, and 15 distribution centers. Since 1993, the company has added other product categories, but fasteners remain its largest category at about 30%-35% of sales. Fastenal also offers customers supply-chain solutions, such as vending and vendor-managed inventory.
<h3>Unraveling the Financial Story of Fastenal</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization surpasses industry averages, showcasing a dominant size relative to peers and suggesting a strong market position.
Revenue Growth: Fastenal displayed positive results in 3 months. As of 31 March, 2024, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 1.94%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Industrials sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 15.71%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Fastenal's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 8.78%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 6.62%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 0.14.
<h2>The Basics of Analyst Ratings</h2>
Analysts work in banking and financial systems and typically specialize in reporting for stocks or defined sectors. Analysts may attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per 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.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Fastenal Stock: A Deep Dive Into Analyst Perspectives (4 Ratings)

Stifel analyst Brian Butler reiterates Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) with a Buy and lowers the price target from $85 to $80.

Reiteration

Stifel Reiterates Buy on Fastenal, Lowers Price Target to $80

Stephens &amp; Co. analyst Tommy Moll reiterates Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) with a Equal-Weight and maintains $56 price target.

Stephens & Co. Reiterates Equal-Weight on Fastenal, Maintains $56 Price Target

To gain an edge, this is what you need to know today.
<img alt="" src="https://thearorareport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/chart-for-240712.jpg" style="height:300px; width:624px" />
<h3>AI Super Bulls Pay Attention</h3>
Please <a href="https://thearorareport.com/chart-analysis-stock-market-inflation-producer-price-index-major-movers-spy-mc-07122024">click here</a> for an enlarged&nbsp;chart of SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (ARCA:SPY) which represents the benchmark stock market index S&amp;P 500 (SPX) compared to&nbsp;Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1 (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qqq#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), iShares Russell 2000 ETF (ARCA: IWM), VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/smh#NASDAQ">SMH</a>), NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nvda#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tsla#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), and KB Home (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/kbh#NYSE">KBH</a>).
Note the following:
<ul>
<li>AI super bulls pay attention to the chart as it shows major divergences occurring yesterday.</li>
<li>The chart shows the small cap ETF IWM outperformed Nasdaq 100 ETF QQQ by 5.9%.&nbsp;This is the biggest such divergence since 2001.</li>
<li>The chart shows IWM outperformed S&amp;P 500 ETF SPY by 4.56%.&nbsp;This is the biggest divergence since 2008. Prior to 2008, such divergence occurred in 1979.</li>
<li>Semiconductors have been driven higher and higher by the AI frenzy.&nbsp;The chart shows that small cap ETF IWM outperformed semiconductor ETF SMH by 7.77%.</li>
<li>The chart shows home builder KBH outperformed AI king NVDA by 17.49%.</li>
<li>Most strikingly, the chart shows that home builder KBH outperformed TSLA by 20.38%.</li>
<li>Home builder KBH, NVDA, and semiconductor ETF SMH are positions in The Arora Report Model Portfolios with very large unrealized gains.&nbsp;Small cap ETF IWM is in The Arora Report&#39;s ZYX Allocation Model Portfolio.</li>
<li>The trigger for these moves was lower than expected CPI as we shared with you in <a href="https://blog.thearorareport.com/china-071124/">yesterday&rsquo;s Morning Capsule</a>. Smart money responded to lower than expected CPI by rotating out of AI stocks and into beneficiaries of a lower interest rate environment. It is important to remember that smart money holds very large positions. Smart money is not wholesale selling AI stocks.&nbsp;Smart money is just taking partial profits.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>As we previously said, a fortune is to be made in AI over the next six years, but it is not going to be a straight line. At times, it will be treacherous. Yesterday was an indication of what can happen.&nbsp;In the future, yesterday&rsquo;s type of activity can be on steroids.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>The momo crowd had become extremely aggressive in buying TSLA calls.&nbsp;Yesterday, TSLA call buyers were crushed.&nbsp;It is important to not become extremely aggressive when there are sharp moves up.</li>
<li>After yesterday&rsquo;s weak Consumer Price Index (CPI), Producer Price Index is higher than expected (PPI). Here are the details:
<ul>
<li>Headline PPI came at 0.2% vs. 0.1% consensus.</li>
<li>Core PPI came at 0.4% vs. 0.1% consensus.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment will be released at 10am ET and may be market moving.</li>
<li>Yesterday, we shared with you that earnings from Fastenal Co (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fast#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) would give a good picture of infrastructure and construction activity. FAST reported earnings and revenues inline.</li>
<li>Among important bank earnings, JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/jpm#NYSE">JPM</a>), Citigroup Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/c#NYSE">C</a>), and Wells Fargo &amp; Co (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wfc#NYSE">WFC</a>) reported earnings and projections better than the consensus.</li>
</ul>
<h4>Magnificent Seven Money Flows</h4>
In the early trade, money flows are positive in Apple Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are neutral in Alphabet Inc Class C (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/goog#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) and Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/msft#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are negative in TSLA, NVDA, Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amzn#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), and Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/meta#NASDAQ">META</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are mixed in SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (ARCA:SPY) and Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1 (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qqq#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>).
<h3>Momo Crowd And Smart Money In Stocks</h3>
Investors can gain an edge by knowing money flows in SPY and QQQ. &nbsp;Investors can get a bigger edge by knowing when smart money is buying stocks, gold, and oil. &nbsp;The most popular ETF for gold is SPDR Gold Trust (ARCA:GLD).&nbsp;The most popular ETF for silver is iShares Silver Trust (ARCA:SLV). &nbsp;The most popular ETF for oil is United States Oil ETF (ARCA:USO).
<h3>Bitcoin</h3>
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) is range bound.
<h3>Protection Band And What To Do Now</h3>
It is important for investors to look ahead and not in the rearview mirror.
Consider continuing to hold good, very long term, existing positions. Based on individual risk preference, consider a protection band consisting of cash or Treasury bills or short-term tactical trades as well as short to medium term hedges and short term hedges. This is a good way to protect yourself and participate in the upside at the same time.
You can determine your protection bands by adding cash to hedges.&nbsp; The high band of the protection is appropriate for those who are older or conservative. The low band of the protection is appropriate for those who are younger or aggressive.&nbsp; If you do not hedge, the total cash level should be more than stated above but significantly less than cash plus hedges.
A protection band of 0% would be very bullish and would indicate full investment with 0% in cash.&nbsp; A protection band of 100% would be very bearish and would indicate a need for aggressive protection with cash and hedges or aggressive short selling.
It is worth reminding that you cannot take advantage of new upcoming opportunities if you are not holding enough cash.&nbsp; When adjusting hedge levels, consider adjusting partial stop quantities for stock positions (non ETF); consider using wider stops on remaining quantities and also allowing more room for high beta stocks.&nbsp; High beta stocks are the ones that move more than the market.
<h3>Traditional 60/40 Portfolio</h3>
Probability based risk reward adjusted for inflation does not favor long duration strategic bond allocation at this time.
Those who want to stick to traditional 60% allocation to stocks and 40% to bonds may consider focusing on only high quality bonds and bonds of seven year duration or less.&nbsp; Those willing to bring sophistication to their investing may consider using bond ETFs as tactical positions and not strategic positions at this time.
The Arora Report is known for its accurate calls. The Arora Report correctly called the big artificial intelligence rally before anyone else, the new bull market of 2023, the bear market of 2022, new stock market highs right after the virus low in 2020, the virus drop in 2020, the DJIA rally to 30,000 when it was trading at 16,000, the start of a mega bull market in 2009, and the financial crash of 2008. Please click here to sign up for a free forever <a href="https://thearorareport.com/generate-wealth-newsletter-benzinga">Generate Wealth Newsletter</a>.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#39;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Markets

General

$BTC

AAPL

AMZN

GOOG

MSFT

NVDA

TSLA

AI Super Bulls Pay Attention To The Biggest Divergence Since 2001, TSLA Call Buyers Crushed

Fastenal Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) (the 'Company' or 'Fastenal') has appointed Jeff Watts, a 28-year Company veteran with deep global sales experience, to the position of President and Chief Sales Officer, effective August 1, 2024. Mr. Watts will assume the President role from Dan Florness, who will be voluntarily vacating the President position on the effective date. Mr. Florness will continue to serve as Fastenal's CEO and as a member of its Board of Directors.
In addition to serving as President, Mr. Watts will continue in his role as the Company's Chief Sales Officer (CSO), a position he has held since May 2023. As CSO, his responsibilities include establishing priorities, setting goals, and providing guidance and oversight for the Company's global sales activities, which today span 25 countries.

Management

Fastenal Promotes Jeff Watts To President And Chief Sales Officer, Effective August 1, 2024; Dan Florness Will Continue As CEO

Fastenal Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) shares are trading higher after the company reported second-quarter fiscal 2024 sales growth of 1.8% year-over-year to $1.916 billion, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/39746239" rel="noreferrer noopener">matching the consensus of $1.915 billion.</a>
The growth was driven by higher unit sales from larger customers and new Onsite locations despite negative impacts from foreign exchange rates and a decline in product pricing.
Weighted FASTBin/FASTVend signings (MEUs) rose 5.8% Y/Y to 7,188; Weighted FASTBin/FASTVend installations rose 11.4% Y/Y.
FAST&#8217;s Digital Footprint represented 59.4% of sales in the quarter, an increase from 55.3% in the second quarter of 2023.
The gross margin contracted to 45.1% from 45.5%, due to an unfavorable customer and product mix, plus short-term supply chain inefficiencies supporting warehousing customers, expected to benefit future growth.
Operating income was $386.9 million (-2.0% Y/Y), and the margin was 20.2%, a decline from 21.0% in the same quarter of 2023. The company&#8217;s second-quarter EPS was <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">$0.51, in line with the consensus.</a>
Fastenal&#8217;s operating cash flow for the quarter was $258 million, a decrease of 14.6% year over year. This represented 88.1% of the period&#8217;s net income versus 101.4% a year ago.
The company held cash and equivalents of $255.5 million as of June-end.
FAST returned $223.3 to shareholders in the form of dividends. The company did not repurchase any common stock in the first half of 2024 or 2023.
Total debt decreased to $235.0 million (6.3% of total capital) at the end of the quarter from $350 million a year ago.
In the second-quarter, the company signed 107 new Onsite locations, resulting in 209 year-to-date signings. Active Onsite locations rose 11.9% to 1,934.
Outlook: For 2024, Fastenal continues to expect Onsite signings of 375 to 400 and weighted FASTBin and FASTVend device signings to be 26,000 to 28,000 MEUs.
Price Action: FAST shares are trading higher by 5.30% at $67.57 premarket at the last check Friday.
Photo via Wikimedia Commons

Earnings

Equities

Guidance

Movers

Fastenal Defies Odds with Q2 Sales Growth Amid Supply Chain Challenges and Margin Squeeze: Details

ZAPP: 40% &#x7C; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/39747124">Zapp Electric Vehicles shares are trading higher after the company announced that it entered into a new standby equity purchase agreement with an affiliate of Yorkville Advisors Global to start production and the commercial rollout of the i300 electric urban motorcycle in India.</a>
&nbsp;
IMMP: 68% &#x7C; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/39747170">Immutep shares are trading higher after the company announced results from Cohort B of the TACTI-003 Phase IIb trial evaluating eftilagimod alfa in combination with MSD's anti-PD-1 therapy KEYTRUDA as first-line treatment of recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients with negative PD-L1 expression.</a>
&nbsp;
FAST: 6% &#x7C; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/39747850">Fastenal shares are trading higher following better-than-expected Q2 earnings.</a>

IMMP

ZAPP

Market-Moving News for July 12th

WIIM

Fastenal shares are trading higher following better-than-expected Q2 earnings.

The major index futures traded narrowly mixed early Friday as the imminent release of the June producer price inflation report kept traders on edge as they await confirmation that inflation is sustainably decreasing. After moving sharply to the downside, bond yields have begun ticking higher, but gold futures slipped.
Traders may also focus on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39744630/jpmorgan-citi-kick-off-big-bank-reporting-season-as-expectations-remain-muted-amid-economic-head">earnings report from big banks </a>as they herald the start of the reporting season. Analysts are optimistic about a healthy pace of earnings growth, with Factset estimating S&amp;P 500 companies to report cumulative earnings growth of 8.8% for the second quarter.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Futures</td>
<td>Performance (+/-)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>-0.07%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>+0.03%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow</td>
<td>+0.05%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>R2K</td>
<td>+0.73%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> In premarket trading on Friday,&nbsp;the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) rose 0.12% to $567.12 and the&nbsp;Invesco QQQ ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) edged up 0.04% to $492.12, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/lxquj26b2sag" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro data</a>.</figcaption></figure>
Cues From Last Session:
U.S. stocks closed Thursday&#8217;s session sharply lower, with the Nasdaq Composite and the S&amp;P 500 Index slumping from their all-time highs. These two averages opened on a positive note but fell steadily in the morning session. They saw a consolidation move around the lower levels and ended notably lower for the session.
The 30-stock Dow Jones Industrial Average opened lower but recovered in early trading and moved mostly below the unchanged line before settling marginally higher.
The decline came amid the release of a tamer-than-expected inflation report that sent bond yields lower and rate-cut odds spiking higher. Making sense of the contrarian move, economist David Rosenberg said, &#8220;Maybe it's realizing the data aren't exactly all that constructive for corporate pricing power or top-line growth.&#8221;
The noteworthy development during a largely negative session is the spike in small-cap stocks, with the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) settling 3.59% higher.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Index</td>
<td>Performance (+/-)</td>
<td>Value</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq Composite</td>
<td>-1.95%</td>
<td>18,283.41</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500 Index</td>
<td>-0.88%</td>
<td>5,584.54</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Industrials</td>
<td>+0.08%</td>
<td>39,753.75</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>+3.57%</td>
<td>2,125.04</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> Insights From Analysts:</figcaption></figure>
Following the June inflation report, fund manager Louis Navellier said a Sept. 18 key interest rate cut is likely forthcoming and that should be clarified in the Federal Open Market Committee statement on July 31. The fund manager also sees support coming from earnings growth. &#8220;The expectations for the second quarter earnings remain very high with 8.8% forecasted annual earnings growth for the S&amp;P 500,&#8221; he said, adding that these are the highest forecasted earnings growth since the first quarter of 2022.
Upcoming Economic Data:
<ul>
<li>The Bureau of Labor Statistics is due to release its June producer price inflation report at 8:30 a.m. EDT. Economists, on average, expect monthly and annual headline inflation rates of 0.1% and 2.3%, respectively. This compares to the May reading of -0.2% and 2.2%, respectively. Core producer prices may have climbed 0.2% month-over-month and 2.5% year-over-year, up from 0% and 2.3%, respectively.</li>
<li>The University of Michigan will release the results of its preliminary July consumer sentiment survey, with the consensus calling for a slight rise in the index from June&#8217;s 68.2 to 68.5 in July. The forward inflation expectations readings of the report could also evince some interest.</li>
</ul>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-trade-futures">How To Trade Futures </a>
Stocks In Focus:
<ul>
<li>Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) fell over 2% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket">in premarket trading</a> in an extended sell-off on reports of a potential delay in the Robotaxi unveil event.</li>
<li>JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>), Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>), Wells Fargo &amp; Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>) and Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BK#NYSE">BK</a>) and Fastenal Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) are among the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings">companies reporting ahead of the market open.</a> Bank of New York Mellon rose 2% following the bank&#8217;s earnings release, JPMorgan fell moderately despite a beat and Wells Fargo slid over 5.5%.</li>
</ul>
Commodities, Bonds And Global Equity Markets:
Crude oil futures climbed for a third straight session and traded around the $83.50-a-barrel level, while gold futures fell after Thursday&#8217;s strong advance.
The 10-year Treasury note yield, which fell 1.64% on Thursday on the back of the CPI data, rose 3.9 basis points to 4.229%.
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) slid below the $57K level, down over 2% over the past 24 hours.
The Asian stock markets closed Thursday&#8217;s session on a mixed note, with the Japanese, South Korean and Taiwanese markets pulling back sharply. Most other major markets in the region advanced, drawing clues from the U.S. inflation data. The Chinese market rose after mixed trade data kept stimulus hopes alive.
European stocks firmed up in early trading. 
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39743338/s-p-500-to-plunge-more-than-20-near-term-top-economist-breaks-down-broader-market-vs-small-cap-d">S&amp;P 500 To Plunge More Than 20% Near Term? Top Economist Breaks Down Broader Market Vs. Small-Cap Divergence After June CPI Report</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock

Futures

Previews

Economics

Federal Reserve

Pre-Market Outlook

US Stocks On Track For Mixed Start Ahead Of More Inflation Data: JPMorgan, Wells Fargo Fall On Earnings

Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.51 per share which met the analyst consensus estimate. The company reported quarterly sales of $1.916 billion which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $1.915 billion by 0.05 percent. This is a 1.75 percent increase over sales of $1.883 billion the same period last year.

Earnings Beats

Fastenal Q2 2024 GAAP EPS $0.51, Inline, Sales $1.916B Beat $1.915B Estimate

To gain an edge, this is what you need to know today.
<img alt="" src="https://thearorareport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2024-07-11_08h38_48.png" style="height:382px; width:700px" />
<h3>Cooler CPI</h3>
Please <a href="https://thearorareport.com/chart-analysis-stock-market-inflation-turns-negative-spy-mc-07112024">click here</a> for an enlarged chart of SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (ARCA:SPY) which represents the benchmark stock market index S&amp;P 500 (SPX).
Note the following:
<ul>
<li>The chart shows that the stock market is making a new high.</li>
<li>The chart shows that the new high is on low volume, indicating a lack of conviction.</li>
<li>The chart shows the stock market running up after the release of Consumer Price Index (CPI).&nbsp;Futures were negative before the release of CPI but moved higher after the release of CPI.</li>
<li>CPI data is cooler than expected. Here are the details:
<ul>
<li>Headline CPI came at -0.1% vs. 0.1% consensus.&nbsp;This is the lowest since 2020.</li>
<li>Core CPI came at 0.1% vs. 0.2% consensus.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Initial jobless claims came at 222K vs. 234K consensus. This indicates that the economy is staying strong.&nbsp; Initial jobless claims is a leading indicator and carries heavy weight in our adaptive <a href="https://thearorareport.com/ALLOCATION%2BMODELS.htm">ZYX Asset Allocation Model</a> with inputs in <a href="https://thearorareport.com/unique-zyx-asset-allocation-4/">ten categories</a>.&nbsp;In plain English, adaptiveness means that the model changes itself with market conditions.&nbsp;Please <a href="https://thearorareport.com/unique-zyx-asset-allocation-3/">click here</a> to see how this is achieved.</li>
<li>In The Arora Report analysis, the probability of a rate cut in July is 40%.&nbsp;The probability of a rate cut in September is now 75%.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>In The Arora Report analysis, prudent investors need to be aware of two risks in the face of extreme bullish sentiment:
<ul>
<li>A rate cut can lead to euphoria.&nbsp; If euphoria occurs, prudent investors will need to be more tactical and enter more short term trades as euphorias tend to end in crashes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Prudent investors also need to be cognizant of a possible &lsquo;sell the news&rsquo; reaction.&nbsp;Investors have been running up the stock market on hopes of a rate cut.&nbsp;There is a fair probability that smart money may start selling on a rate cut to lock in the gains.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Earnings season starts today.
<ul>
<li>Conagra Brands Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/cag#NYSE">CAG</a>), PepsiCo Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pep#NASDAQ">PEP</a>), and Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/dal#NYSE">DAL</a>) kicked off earnings season.&nbsp; Taken together, earnings, revenues, and projections, are below whisper numbers for all three.</li>
<li>Tomorrow will bring important bank earnings from JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/jpm#NYSE">JPM</a>), Citigroup Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/c#NYSE">C</a>), and Wells Fargo &amp; Co (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/wfc#NYSE">WFC</a>).&nbsp;Expectations are very high.</li>
<li>An important earning tomorrow is from Fastenal Co (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fast#NASDAQ">FAST</a>).&nbsp;Fastenal earnings are a good indication of spending on construction and infrastructure.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Producer Price Index (PPI) will be released tomorrow at 8:30am ET.&nbsp;Investors will use PPI as confirmation of falling inflation.</li>
<li>University of Michigan consumer sentiment will be released tomorrow at 10am ET.&nbsp;Consumer sentiment is important because for about 80% of consumers, liquidity has dried up.</li>
<li>As an actionable item, the sum total of the foregoing is in the protection band, which strikes the optimum balance between various crosscurrents.&nbsp;Please scroll down to see the protection band. The protection band is one of the large number of unique edges that are available to members of The Arora Report.</li>
</ul>
<h3>China</h3>
Yesterday, we shared with you that the momo crowd was aggressively buying Taiwan Semiconductor Mfg. Co. Ltd. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tsm#NYSE">TSM</a>) on AI euphoria, oblivious to the China risk.&nbsp; Prudent investors need to be aware that China just sent 56 aircraft, the most ever, across a key boundary line with Taiwan.&nbsp; The purpose seems to be to intimidate Taiwan into submission and warn the U.S. of China&rsquo;s military might.&nbsp;&nbsp;
China has put in place more short selling restrictions to help the Chinese stock market run up.
<h3>Magnificent Seven Money Flows</h3>
In the early trade, money flows are positive in Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amzn#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>),&nbsp;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 Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/tsla#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are negative in Apple Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/meta#NASDAQ">META</a>), and Alphabet Inc Class C (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/goog#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are positive in SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (ARCA:SPY) and Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1 (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qqq#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>).
<h3>Momo Crowd And Smart Money In Stocks</h3>
Consider continuing to hold good, very long term, existing positions. Based on individual risk preference, consider a protection band consisting of cash or Treasury bills or short-term tactical trades as well as short to medium term hedges and short term hedges. This is a good way to protect yourself and participate in the upside at the same time.
<h3>Bitcoin</h3>
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) is seeing buying after the release of CPI.
<h3>Protection Band And What To Do Now</h3>
It is important for investors to look ahead and not in the rearview mirror.
Consider continuing to hold good, very long term, existing positions. Based on individual risk preference, consider a protection band consisting of cash or Treasury bills or short-term tactical trades as well as short to medium term hedges and short term hedges. This is a good way to protect yourself and participate in the upside at the same time.
You can determine your protection bands by adding cash to hedges.&nbsp;The high band of the protection is appropriate for those who are older or conservative. The low band of the protection is appropriate for those who are younger or aggressive.&nbsp; If you do not hedge, the total cash level should be more than stated above but significantly less than cash plus hedges.
A protection band of 0% would be very bullish and would indicate full investment with 0% in cash.&nbsp;A protection band of 100% would be very bearish and would indicate a need for aggressive protection with cash and hedges or aggressive short selling.
It is worth reminding that you cannot take advantage of new upcoming opportunities if you are not holding enough cash.&nbsp;When adjusting hedge levels, consider adjusting partial stop quantities for stock positions (non ETF); consider using wider stops on remaining quantities and also allowing more room for high beta stocks.&nbsp; High beta stocks are the ones that move more than the market.
<h3>Traditional 60/40 Portfolio</h3>
Probability based risk reward adjusted for inflation does not favor long duration strategic bond allocation at this time.
Those who want to stick to traditional 60% allocation to stocks and 40% to bonds may consider focusing on only high quality bonds and bonds of seven year duration or less.&nbsp;Those willing to bring sophistication to their investing may consider using bond ETFs as tactical positions and not strategic positions at this time.
The Arora Report is known for its accurate calls. The Arora Report correctly called the big artificial intelligence rally before anyone else, the new bull market of 2023, the bear market of 2022, new stock market highs right after the virus low in 2020, the virus drop in 2020, the DJIA rally to 30,000 when it was trading at 16,000, the start of a mega bull market in 2009, and the financial crash of 2008. Please click here to sign up for a free forever <a href="https://thearorareport.com/generate-wealth-newsletter-benzinga">Generate Wealth Newsletter</a>.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#39;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Asia

Commodities

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Jefferies analyst Stephen Volkmann maintains Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) with a Hold and lowers the price target from $74 to $65.

Jefferies Maintains Hold on Fastenal, Lowers Price Target to $65

Fastenal Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) is scheduled to release its financial results for the second quarter, before the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/fast/earnings">opening bell on Friday, July 12.</a>
Analysts expect the Winona, Minnesota-based company to report quarterly earnings at 51 cents per share, down from 52 cents per share in the year-ago period. Fastenal is expected to post revenue of $1.92 billion, compared to $1.89 billion a year earlier, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
On April 11, Fastenal posted worse-than-expected first-quarter financial results.
Fastenal shares gained 1.8% to close at $63.68 on Tuesday.
Benzinga readers can access the latest analyst ratings on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Readers can sort by stock ticker, company name, analyst firm, rating change or other variables.
Let's have a look at how Benzinga's most-accurate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FAST/analyst-ratings">analysts have rated the company</a> in the recent period.
<ul>
<li>Baird analyst David Manthey maintained a Neutral rating and cut the price target from $71 to $69 on May 7. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 82%.</li>
<li>Loop Capital analyst Chris Dankert maintained a Hold rating and slashed the price target from $71 to $66 on April 15. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 72%.</li>
<li>HSBC analyst Wesley Brooks maintained a Hold rating and raised the price target from $59 to $64 on April 15. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 69%.</li>
<li>Stifel analyst Michael Hoffman maintained a Buy rating and raised the price target from $75 to $85 on March 18. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 81%.</li>
</ul>
Read This Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/07/39690602/delta-air-lines-likely-to-report-lower-q2-earnings-here-are-the-recent-forecast-changes-from-wall-s">Delta Air Lines Likely To Report Lower Q2 Earnings; Here Are The Recent Forecast Changes From Wall Street&#8217;s Most Accurate Analysts</a></li>
</ul>

Fastenal Gears Up For Q2 Print; Here Are The Recent Forecast Changes From Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts

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 Industrials 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>AAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$9.00</td>
<td>$477.0K</td>
<td>7.5K</td>
<td>9.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EOSE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$1.50</td>
<td>$78.7K</td>
<td>7.9K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ENVX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>07/12/24</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$37.2K</td>
<td>6.9K</td>
<td>940</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FAST</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/19/24</td>
<td>$64.62</td>
<td>$57.9K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>202</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DAL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/12/24</td>
<td>$42.50</td>
<td>$30.6K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>74</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VRT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$77.4K</td>
<td>494</td>
<td>53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPCE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$8.00</td>
<td>$26.1K</td>
<td>263</td>
<td>33</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$35.2K</td>
<td>51</td>
<td>27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ZIM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$77.2K</td>
<td>949</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PAYX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$125.00</td>
<td>$29.5K</td>
<td>167</td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding AAL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>), we observe a put option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 256 day(s) on March 21, 2025. Parties traded 9000 contract(s) at a $9.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $477.0K, with a price of $53.0 per contract. There were 7525 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 9000 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding EOSE (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EOSE#NASDAQ">EOSE</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 165 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 949 contract(s) at a $1.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 13 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $78.7K, with a price of $83.0 per contract. There were 7918 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1063 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ENVX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENVX#NASDAQ">ENVX</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 4 day(s) on July 12, 2024. This event was a transfer of 1165 contract(s) at a $17.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $37.2K, with a price of $32.0 per contract. There were 6918 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 940 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding FAST (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 11 day(s) on July 19, 2024. Parties traded 200 contract(s) at a $64.62 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 $57.9K, with a price of $290.0 per contract. There were 1172 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 202 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For DAL (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 4 day(s) on July 12, 2024. This event was a transfer of 69 contract(s) at a $42.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $30.6K, with a price of $444.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 74 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding VRT (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRT#NYSE">VRT</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 39 day(s) on August 16, 2024. Parties traded 98 contract(s) at a $95.00 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 $77.4K, with a price of $790.0 per contract. There were 494 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 53 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For SPCE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPCE#NYSE">SPCE</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 102 day(s) on October 18, 2024. This event was a transfer of 121 contract(s) at a $8.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.1K, with a price of $216.0 per contract. There were 263 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 33 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding DE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DE#NYSE">DE</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 193 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 5 contract(s) at a $300.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $35.2K, with a price of $7045.0 per contract. There were 51 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 27 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ZIM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZIM#NYSE">ZIM</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 193 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 201 contract(s) at a $19.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 11 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $77.2K, with a price of $385.0 per contract. There were 949 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 23 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For PAYX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PAYX#NASDAQ">PAYX</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 165 day(s) on December 20, 2024. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $125.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $29.5K, with a price of $295.0 per contract. There were 167 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 11 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.

Options

ENVX

EOSE

PAYX

SPCE

10 Industrials Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Although U.S. stocks closed mixed on Tuesday, there were a few notable insider trades.
When insiders purchase shares, it indicates their confidence in the company&#8217;s prospects or that they view the stock as a bargain. Either way, this signals an opportunity to go long on the stock. Insider purchases should not be taken as the only indicator for making an investment or trading decision. At best, it can lend conviction to a buying decision.
Below is a look at a few recent notable insider purchases. For more, check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades">Benzinga&#8217;s insider transactions</a> platform.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Zillow Group</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: Zillow Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZG#NASDAQ">ZG</a>) Director Jay C Hoag <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ZG/analyst-ratings">acquired a total of 2,338,036 shares</a> at an average price of $42.76. To acquire these shares, it cost around $99.97 million.</li>
<li>What's Happening: On May 1, Zillow posted upbeat quarterly results.</li>
<li>What Zillow Does: Zillow Group Inc is an Internet-based real estate company that offers its customers an on-demand experience for selling, buying, renting, or financing with transparency and ease.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fastenal</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: Fastenal Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) Director Hsenghung Sam Hsu acquired a total of 1,000 shares at an average price of $63.12. To acquire these shares, it cost around $63,115.</li>
<li>What's Happening: On April 11, Fastenal posted worse-than-expected first-quarter financial results.</li>
<li>What Fastenal Does: Fastenal opened its first fastener store in 1967 in Winona, Minnesota.</li>
</ul>
Don&#8217;t forget to check out our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket coverage here</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Deluxe</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Trade: Deluxe Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DLX#NYSE">DLX</a>) President and CEO Barry C McCarthy <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">bought a total of 2,440 shares</a> at an average price of $21.63. To acquire these shares, it cost around $52,777.</li>
<li>What's Happening: On May 1, Deluxe posted better-than-expected quarterly earnings.</li>
<li>What Deluxe Does: Deluxe Corporation engaged in providing payment solutions.</li>
</ul>
Read More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39269583/top-4-health-care-stocks-that-may-keep-you-up-at-night-this-month">Top 4 Health Care Stocks That May Keep You Up At Night This Month</a>

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Screenshot 2024-07-10 at 2.19.41 PM

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