Palo Alto Networks Option Alert: Sep 19 $195 Puts at the Ask: 3400 vs 988 OI; Earnings 8/18 After Close [est] 

Palo Alto Networks Option Alert: Sep 19 $195 Puts at the Ask: 3400 @ $10.55 vs 988 OI; Earnings 8/18 After Close [est] Ref=$198.28

Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:PANW) Bolsa

PALO ALTO NETWORKS INC

Palo Alto Networks

Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.

Palo AltoSanta,Clara,,Ca,,Usa,-,Apr,28,,2022:,The,Company

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Palo Alto cae tras superar expectativas en ingresos y beneficios del T3. Analistas ajustan sus precios objetivo. ¿Reacción exagerada?

Palo Alto Networks cae un 6,7% tras resultados pese a superar estimaciones

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El Nasdaq cayó un 0,4 %, pero acciones como D-Wave y Warby Parker brillaron. Mira qué impulsó sus subidas y bajadas.

Toll Brothers, D-Wave, Palo Alto, Warby Parker, Tesla: 5 acciones que están en el radar de los inversores

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Aquí tienes cinco acciones estadounidenses que podrían llamar la atención de los inversores este miércoles: TGT, PANW, LOW, TOL y TJX.

5 acciones en el foco este miércoles: TGT, PANW, LOW, TOL y TJX

Palo Alto Networks Inc

Palo Alto Networks's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NYSE">PANW</a>) short percent of float has fallen 11.79% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 23.73 million shares sold short, which is 3.59% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 6.57 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Palo Alto Networks Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1751655627_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Palo Alto Networks has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Palo Alto Networks's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Palo Alto Networks's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 6.95%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

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How Do Investors Really Feel About Palo Alto Networks?

Palo Alto Networks Inc. CEO Nikesh Arora revealed insights into SoftBank Group Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) CEO Masayoshi Son&#8216;s risk-taking philosophy during a recent podcast appearance, comparing the Japanese billionaire&#8217;s approach to life to the fictional character Benjamin Button.
What Happened: Speaking on Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath&#8216;s podcast, Arora described how Son, now 67, embodied a reverse-aging mentality between the ages of 50 and 60.
&#8220;He was going, touching everything his mother said don&#8217;t touch,&#8221; Arora said, referencing how most cultures teach risk aversion from childhood.
Arora, who worked alongside Son at SoftBank, characterized the investor as someone who defied conventional wisdom about settling down and minimizing risk. &#8220;Masa&#8217;s the other way around. &#8216;What are we going to do today? Great. All in,'&#8221; Arora explained.
Son&#8217;s aggressive investment strategy has generated both spectacular wins and losses throughout his career. The SoftBank founder struck gold four times with major investments, including Yahoo! Japan, Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>), and ARM Holdings PLC (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>).
However, his risk appetite also led to dramatic volatility, with Son becoming the world&#8217;s richest man briefly before facing near-bankruptcy.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46189133/nikita-bier-the-founder-of-gas-and-tbh-who-once-asked-elon-musk-to-hire-him-as-vp-of-product-at-twitter-has-joined-x-never-give-up">Nikita Bier, The Founder Of Gas And TBH, Who Once Asked Elon Musk To Hire Him As VP Of Product At Twitter, Has Joined X: &#8216;Never Give Up&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: This high-stakes approach continues today as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46134697/softbanks-masayoshi-son-sets-sights-on-artificial-super-intelligence-domination-with-bets-on-openai-and-ampere-im-all-in">SoftBank positions itself for artificial intelligence dominance</a>. The company has committed $32 billion to OpenAI since 2024, with Son declaring &#8220;I&#8217;m all in on OpenAI&#8221; at the firm&#8217;s annual shareholder meeting in June. 
SoftBank reportedly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46023729/softbanks-masayoshi-son-proposes-1-trillion-robotics-and-ai-hub-in-arizona-with-tsmc">proposed a $1 trillion robotics and AI hub in Arizona</a> alongside Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>).
Son&#8217;s cultural background provides context for his contrarian philosophy. Arora noted how traditional risk management, particularly from mothers warning children against dangerous activities, shapes most people&#8217;s approach to life. Son deliberately rejected this framework, choosing instead to embrace maximum risk in pursuit of transformational opportunities.
The strategy has paid off handsomely despite setbacks. SoftBank&#8217;s Vision Funds have invested in over 400 companies, though <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39743441/after-losing-150b-nvidia-opportunity-masayoshi-sons-softbank-acquires-uk-chipmaker-graphcore-in-">the firm notably sold</a> its Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) stake in 2019, missing out on gains worth over $150 billion. Son&#8217;s current net worth stands at $38.8 billion according <a href="https://www.forbes.com/profile/masayoshi-son/">to</a> Forbes, making him Japan&#8217;s second-richest person.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/25/07/46188863/when-kevin-oleary-found-his-mother-was-secretly-an-investing-genius-the-performance-was-extraordinary-and-better-than-most-hedge-funds">When Kevin O&#8217;Leary Found His Mother Was Secretly An Investing Genius: &#8216;The Performance Was Extraordinary&#8217; And Better Than Most Hedge Funds</a></li>
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: glen photo / Shutterstock.com

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SoftBank's Masayoshi Son Lived Life Like 'Benjamin Button' — Nikesh Arora Says He Took Every Risk His Mother Warned Him About And Struck Gold With Alibaba, ARM

Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) co-founder Larry Page rejected Apple Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) signature &#8220;focus on one thing&#8221; philosophy during a pivotal meeting with Steve Jobs, according to Palo Alto Networks Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) CEO Nikesh Arora.
What Happened: Speaking on Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath&#8216;s podcast, Arora recalled how Page recounted his conversation with Jobs when Google was still a small company competing against the established Apple. Jobs advised Page to follow Apple&#8217;s model of doing &#8220;one thing really well&#8221; to achieve global dominance.
&#8220;Steve said to Larry, &#8216;Larry, look at the model. The model is, we do one thing, we do it really well. If you do one thing really well and win around the world, you&#8217;re gonna win,'&#8221; Arora said, citing Page&#8217;s recollection of the meeting.
However, Page disagreed with Jobs&#8217; strategy. At the time as Google was simultaneously developing Gmail, Chrome, Google Search, Maps, and other products. Page believed success came from having great people who could build multiple great products simultaneously, not from limiting focus to a single offering.
&#8220;Larry had a different point of view. He said, &#8216;Look, I don&#8217;t believe that. I believe it&#8217;s a question of capacity. If you have great people, you can motivate them. They can go build great stuff. As long as you focus on building a great product, it doesn&#8217;t matter if you do one or many,'&#8221; Arora explained.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46161059/apple-has-the-potential-to-crush-metas-ray-ban-smart-glasses-says-ming-chi-kuo-but-the-tech-giant-has-been-surprisingly-slow">Apple Has the Potential To Crush Meta&#8217;s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, Says Ming-Chi Kuo, But The Tech Giant Has Been &#8216;Surprisingly Slow&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: Page&#8217;s &#8220;product-obsessed&#8221; approach became evident when he assumed Google&#8217;s CEO role. He structured his leadership team with seven product-focused direct reports compared to just three business-focused executives. 
When Arora prepared a comprehensive business presentation for their first one-on-one meeting, Page dismissed it, stating he needed to focus on building great products.
&#8220;Tech companies which lose sight of great products eventually fail,&#8221; Arora said. According to him, once-prominent firms like Sun Microsystems and Yahoo were industry leaders in their prime but ultimately stumbled after drifting away from a strong product vision.
This philosophical divide between Apple&#8217;s focused approach and Google&#8217;s diversified strategy proved successful for both companies. Apple&#8217;s concentrated efforts on flagship products like the iPhone generated massive market share in specific categories, while Google&#8217;s multi-product ecosystem created the foundation for Alphabet&#8217;s current $2.17 trillion market capitalization.
Page&#8217;s &#8220;additionality&#8221; principle, which he discussed at TED2014, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45613522/google-co-founder-larry-page-uses-this-economic-principle-to-guide-innovationand-its-all-about-building-what-wouldnt-exist-without-you">emphasized creating products</a> &#8220;that wouldn&#8217;t happen unless you&#8217;re actually doing it.&#8221; 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="From Ghaziabad to Silicon Valley: Nikhil Kamath x Nikesh Arora &#x7C; People by WTF &#x7C; Ep. 11" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vPvnzWoK24Q?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46162898/elon-musk-stopped-believing-in-mars-dream-as-a-political-project-in-2024-says-peter-theil-amid-woke-ai-and-socialist-government-fears">Elon Musk Stopped Believing In Mars Dream As A &#8216;Political Project&#8217; In 2024, Says Peter Thiel Amid &#8216;Woke AI&#8217; And &#8216;Socialist Government&#8217; Fears</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock.com

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Larry Page Rejected Steve Jobs' 'Do One Thing' Well Advice, Built Everything Instead: Palo Alto CEO Nikesh Arora Recalls Google's 'Product-Obsessed' Roots

Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 9.87% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 21.29%. Currently, Palo Alto Networks has a market capitalization of $135.01 billion. 
Buying $1000 In PANW: If an investor had bought $1000 of PANW stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $6,949.28 today based on a price of $202.48 for PANW at the time of writing.
<h3>Palo Alto Networks's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1750973439_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Here's How Much $1000 Invested In Palo Alto Networks 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

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

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

Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 9.95% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 20.92%. Currently, Palo Alto Networks has a market capitalization of $133.09 billion. 
Buying $100 In PANW: If an investor had bought $100 of PANW stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $667.32 today based on a price of $199.60 for PANW at the time of writing.
<h3>Palo Alto Networks's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1750454113_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$100 Invested In Palo Alto Networks 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

Iran launched ballistic missiles toward Israel late Friday local time, triggering a wave of retaliatory fire and igniting fears of a broader conflict. The strikes marked the start of what Iranian state media called "The Hard Retaliation," a direct response to Israeli air raids on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45922022/trump-issues-stark-warning-to-iran-to-make-a-deal-after-israels-strikes-on-nuclear-sites-just-do-it-before-its-too-late">more than 200 targets.</a>
According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/13/trump-urges-iran-to-reach-nuclear-deal-before-there-is-nothing-left-.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CNBC</a>, video footage showed missiles striking Tel Aviv while Israeli defense systems were activated to intercept the barrage. The Israel Defense Forces urged civilians to take shelter immediately.
The IDF earlier confirmed the launch of "Operation Rising Lion," striking Iranian nuclear and military facilities in Isfahan and Natanz to degrade long-range missile capabilities.
NBC News reported that Israeli Brigadier General Effie Defrin said the operation was aimed at preventing Iran from retaliating with drones or missiles. Explosions were also reported near Iran's Fordo nuclear site, with state media confirming the death of IRGC Commander-in-Chief Hossein Salami.
Israel's Defense Ministry claimed most IRGC leadership was killed, but CNBC could not independently verify this. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed retribution, stating that Iran's response would not be "half-measured."
Also Read: <a>The $120 Oil Shock Just Became A Real Risk: Are We Back In 2022?</a>
Despite mounting violence, a U.S. official said Friday morning that the U.S. remained open to talks. However, Iran later suspended nuclear negotiations originally scheduled in Oman for the weekend.
Trump, speaking earlier Friday, urged Tehran to reach a deal "before there is nothing left." The International Atomic Energy Agency reported no radiation spikes at targeted sites.
Amid surging <a class="" href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45931068/missiles-and-firewalls-defense-stocks-surge-as-israel-iran-tensions-ignite">Middle East volatility</a>, defense and cybersecurity stocks are rallying as investors respond to the unfolding conflict between Israel and Iran.
Shares of Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>), RTX Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>), and Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ESLT#NASDAQ">ESLT</a>) jumped as much as 7% on Friday. Elbit alone gained 77% year-to-date, fueled by growing demand for missile defense and drone technology.
The escalation also elevated cybersecurity concerns, sending names like CrowdStrike Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>), Palo Alto Networks Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), and Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CHKP#NASDAQ">CHKP</a>) into sharper focus. Governments are reportedly rushing to reinforce digital infrastructure amid fears of Iranian retaliation.
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li> <a>Wall Street&#8217;s VIX Jumps 10%, Gold And Oil Gain As Middle East Tensions Flare Up—What's Driving Markets Friday</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Roofsoldier/Shutterstock

Global

CHKP

ESLT

Iran Fires Ballistic Missiles At Israel, Tel Aviv Struck

In the high-stakes chess game of Middle East geopolitics, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45922022/trump-issues-stark-warning-to-iran-to-make-a-deal-after-israels-strikes-on-nuclear-sites-just-do-it-before-its-too-late">Israel's airstrikes on Iran's</a> nuclear and drone facilities appear to have lit a fuse under defense and cybersecurity stocks.
As Tehran rattles sabers and markets quiver, the S&amp;P 500 futures dipped 1.1% post-strikes. Savvy investors are, however, eyeing a fortress of opportunity in companies that thrive when tensions soar. 
Defense plays such as Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) stock was up over 6.26% during day trading by Friday noon, Rtx Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) (aka Raytheon Technologies) was up almost 3% and Elbit Systems Ltd (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ESLT#NASDAQ">ESLT</a>) was up 7.43%.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45928637/lockheed-martin-lmt-stock-surges-as-middle-east-tensions-fuel-defense-sector-rally">Lockheed Martin (LMT) Stock Surges As Middle East Tensions Fuel Defense Sector Rally</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Missile Defense: The New Gold Rush</h2>
Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Technologies are stealing the spotlight, with their missile defense systems, like Israel's Arrow, poised to win contracts.
Israel's precision strikes, which <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/13/sounds-of-explosions-heard-in-irans-capital-tehran">targeted</a> Iran's military and nuclear sites supplying Houthi rebels, have left a gap that Western tech is itching to fill.
Israel-based Elbit Systems Ltd (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ESLT#NASDAQ">ESLT</a>), a drone and defense electronics darling, saw its shares jump 10.57% over the past five days alone. The stock has gained 21.51% over the past month and 77% YTD.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cyber Shields Up: Digital Warfare Heats Up</h2>
But it's not just hardware. Cyber warfare is the new battlefield, and Iran's vow to retaliate has cybersecurity firms like Palo Alto Networks Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) and Crowdstrike Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) on high alert. 
Israel's Stuxnet legacy looms large, hinting at digital skirmishes ahead. Check Point Software Technologies Ltd (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CHKP#NASDAQ">CHKP</a>), another Israeli gem, is buzzing with about 20% stock spike YTD, as governments and corporations scramble to fortify digital walls. 
For investors, it's a rare two-for-one: defense offers recession-proof stability, while cybersecurity rides a secular growth wave. 
But beware &#8211; Lockheed Martin's lofty 20.23x P/E and potential de-escalation could cool the rally. Still, with Trump's pro-defense stance and Middle East volatility, these stocks are a hedge worth betting on. 
Read Next: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/06/45924154/the-120-oil-shock-just-became-a-real-risk-are-we-back-in-2022">The $120 Oil Shock Just Became A Real Risk: Are We Back In 2022?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Missiles And Firewalls: Defense Stocks Surge As Israel-Iran Tensions Ignite

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</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 PANW usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 21 extraordinary options activities for Palo Alto Networks. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 52% leaning bullish and 33% bearish. Among these notable options, 6 are puts, totaling $378,384, and 15 are calls, amounting to $1,491,417.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $125.0 to $250.0 for Palo Alto Networks over the recent three months. 
<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 Palo Alto Networks'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 Palo Alto Networks's whale trades within a strike price range from $125.0 to $250.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Palo Alto Networks Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1749585727_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 align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$20.9</td>
<td>$20.6</td>
<td>$20.9</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$522.5K</td>
<td>5.9K</td>
<td align="right">256</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$38.3</td>
<td>$38.3</td>
<td>$38.3</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$218.3K</td>
<td>126</td>
<td align="right">57</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$39.85</td>
<td>$38.5</td>
<td>$38.95</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$194.7K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
<td align="right">50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$4.4</td>
<td>$4.6</td>
<td>$192.50</td>
<td>$138.0K</td>
<td>487</td>
<td align="right">325</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$6.0</td>
<td>$5.65</td>
<td>$5.7</td>
<td>$250.00</td>
<td>$102.6K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
<td align="right">180</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Palo Alto Networks</h3>
Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 1,852,682, the price of PANW is down by -0.01%, reaching $196.31.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 69 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Palo Alto Networks</h3>
A total of 5 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $192.0.
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;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Barclays continues to hold a Overweight rating for Palo Alto Networks, targeting a price of $210. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Northland Capital Markets continues to hold a Market Perform rating for Palo Alto Networks, targeting a price of $177. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Guggenheim downgraded its rating to Sell, setting a price target of $130. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Keybanc downgraded its rating to Overweight, setting a price target of $220. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald lowers its rating to Overweight with a new price target of $223.
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 Palo Alto Networks, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

Check Out What Whales Are Doing With PANW

Uber Technologies Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>) is cruising, with its stock price up 37.53% in 2025, just 7% shy of its 52-week high of $93.60. Now also boosted by a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/large-cap/25/06/45855580/uber-softbank-backed-wayve-to-test-self-driving-cars-on-public-roads-in-uk">robotaxi partnership with Wayve</a>, Uber's dominant 68% U.S. rideshare market share and global reach in 10,000 cities keep investors revved up.
But with Stephanie Link, chief investment strategist and portfolio manager at Hightower Advisors, eyeing more mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;A) after Palo Alto Networks Inc's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) CEO joined Uber's board, can this tech titan keep accelerating, or is it time to pump the brakes?
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">UBER Price Performance: A Smooth Ride With Bumps</h2>
Uber's stock has climbed 26.65% over the past year, outpacing the S&amp;P 500's 24% gain, and a 4.64% pop in the last five days shows renewed momentum. 
Despite a 1.38% dip this month, the stock's trajectory aligns with its affordable product slate &#8211; like UberX Share—driving user growth. The Wayve deal, leveraging the UK's 2026 autonomous vehicle pilot push, adds sizzle.
Meanwhile, Link's "small position" bet, with plans to buy dips, signals confidence in Uber's M&amp;A potential, especially after its $1 billion Wayve investment.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/reiteration/25/06/45843054/uber-wins-analyst-praise-for-robotaxi-boom-lyft-faces-tougher-road-ahead">Uber Wins Analyst Praise For Robotaxi Boom, Lyft Faces Tougher Road Ahead</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">UBER Technicals: Green Lights With A Yellow Flash</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0610"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="628" height="486" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/10123402/Screenshot-2025-06-10-at-9.56.30-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-945075" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/10123402/Screenshot-2025-06-10-at-9.56.30-PM.png 628w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/10123402/Screenshot-2025-06-10-at-9.56.30-PM-300x232.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 628px) 100vw, 628px" /></a></figure>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0610" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chart created using Benzinga Pro</a>
Uber's chart is mostly bullish. The stock trades above its eight-day Simple Moving Average (SMA, $84.76), 50-day SMA ($80.77) and 200-day SMA ($74.13), signaling upward momentum. 
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD, 0.85) reinforces this, pointing to continued strength. However, a 20-day SMA ($87.62) slightly above the stock price of $86.90 hints at mild bearish pressure. The Relative Strength Index (RSI, 55.86) sits comfortably in neutral territory, suggesting room to run before overheating. 
Support at $80 offers a safety net for dip-buyers, while resistance near $90 tests the bulls.
Uber's price surge, Wayve partnership, and M&amp;A buzz make it a hot ticket. Technicals lean bullish, but the 20-day SMA flags caution. While those looking to enter a position in Uber may buy on pullbacks to $80 for a smoother ride, the conservative investor might wait for a breakout above $90. Uber's not autonomous yet, but it's surely in the fast lane.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/45853025/trump-account-promises-1000-for-every-kid-but-not-everyone-thinks-its-the-smartest-idea-out-there">Trump Account Promises $1000 For Every Kid — But Not Everyone Thinks Its The Smartest Idea Out There</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock

Long Ideas

Technicals

UBER

Uber Soars 37% YTD On Robotaxi Deal, M&A Buzz: Strategist Eyes Buy-The-Dip Opportunity

WIIM

AMAT

APPS

ARQQ

BLBX

BNAI

BTDR

DGNX

DOMO

FSLR

GRRR

IREN

KLAC

MOBBW

MRVL

NTRP

ORKT

PHUN

PONY

PRCH

SAIL

SHMD

SHOP

SMSI

SNPS

SONM

TSSI

VRSN

ZETA

Shares of companies within the broader technology sector are trading higher, supported by broad market strength, after better-than-expected nonfarm payrolls data eased concerns about an imminent economic slowdown.

Uber Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/uber" rel="noreferrer noopener">disclosed on Thursday</a> that it appointed Nikesh Arora to the Board of Directors on May 31.
Ron Sugar, chair of the board, said Nikesh is a business leader with deep experience in technology, <a target="_blank" href="https://investor.uber.com/financials/default.aspx#quarterly" rel="noreferrer noopener">finance, and cybersecurity</a>.
Sugar said his leadership in scaling innovative businesses and navigating complex international markets will help Uber grow and evolve.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/05/45325248/lyft-is-executing-well-but-analysts-caution-about-uber-and-waymo-competition" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lyft Is Executing Well But Analysts Caution About Uber And Waymo Competition</a>
Arora, 57, has served as the Chairman of the Board and CEO of Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) since June 2018.
On June 2, Pierre-Dimitri Gore-Coty, senior vice president of delivery and one of its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45736491/uber-reveals-vice-president-of-delivery-is-leaving-after-the-ride-of-a-lifetime" rel="noreferrer noopener">longest-serving executives</a>, departed. Gore-Coty joined the company in 2012.
Uber stock surged over 32% year-to-date. To boost growth, the company <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45162888/uber-heats-up-robotaxi-battle-against-tesla-waymo-with-may-mobility-deal" rel="noreferrer noopener">forged partnerships with</a> companies such as May Mobility Inc. and Volkswagen Group.
Uber named&nbsp;Andrew Macdonald, senior vice president of mobility and business operations, the COO.
Last week, Future Fund LLC&#8216;s managing director,&nbsp;Gary Black,&nbsp;said that&nbsp;Tesla Inc&#8216;s&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)&nbsp;June 12 Robotaxi <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/05/45687704/gary-black-says-teslas-robotaxi-launch-in-june-poses-minimal-risk-to-uber-will-offer-low-cost" rel="noreferrer noopener">launch&nbsp;posed no</a> significant threat to&nbsp;Uber.
Price Action: UBER stock is up 0.56% at $83.92 at last check Thursday.
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</ul>
Photo by JHVEPhoto via Shutterstock

Management

Uber Taps Palo Alto Chief Nikesh Arora For Directorship

Chief Executive Officer pay soared to new heights in 2024, with compensation packages for the top executives at America's largest companies <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45740017/tsmc-ceo-tells-trump-100-billion-us-chip-expansion-will-take-time-amid-tariff-pressures-surging-ai-demand">reaching record levels.&nbsp;</a>
The median compensation for the highest-paid 100 CEOs in 2024, according to data from <a href="https://www.equilar.com/reports/116-highest-paid-ceos-2025-equilar-100.html">Equilar</a>, reached $25.6 million, reflecting a 9.5% increase over the previous year.
A significant driver of this increase was the median value of stock awards, which jumped 40.5% year over year — from $13.2 million in 2023 to $18.6 million in 2024. In 2024, stock awards represented about 73% of the median total compensation for Equilar&#8217;s top 100 CEOs.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/space/25/06/45724938/space-stocks-weekly-countdown-rocketlab-gets-analyst-love-while-virgin-galactic-slides-into-june?utm_source=articleShare">Space Stocks Weekly Countdown: RocketLab Gets Analyst Love While Virgin Galactic Slides Into June</a>
Here are the top 10 S&amp;P 500 CEO pay packages in 2024:
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"> Company           CEO       Total Pay In 2024</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Coherent Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COHR#NYSE">COHR</a>)</td>
<td>James Robert Anderson</td>
<td>$ 101,497,009</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Starbucks Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NASDAQ">SBUX</a>)</td>
<td>Brian Niccol</td>
<td>$ 95,801,676</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>General Electric Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>)</td>
<td>&nbsp; H. Lawrence Culp, Jr.</td>
<td>$ 87,393,876</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)</td>
<td>Satya Nadella</td>
<td>$ 79,106,183</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)</td>
<td>Tim Cook&nbsp;</td>
<td>$ 74,609,802</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CARR#NYSE">CARR</a>)</td>
<td>David Gitlin</td>
<td>$ 65,554,845</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>)</td>
<td>Nikesh Arora</td>
<td>$ 58,036,875</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADBE#NASDAQ">ADBE</a>)</td>
<td>Shantanu Narayen</td>
<td>$ 52,390,182</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nutanix, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTNX#NASDAQ">NTNX</a>)</td>
<td>Rajiv Ramaswami</td>
<td>$ 51,143,711</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>)</td>
<td>George Kurtz</td>
<td>$ 46,983,855</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
One notable name missing from the list is NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) CEO Jensen Huang, who earned $49.9 million in total compensation, but was excluded because the company filed its proxy after Equilar's April 30 cutoff.&nbsp;
Two well-known billionaires ranked near the bottom: Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) and Elon Musk of Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>).&nbsp;
Buffett received $405,000 in compensation, about five times the salary of the average Berkshire Hathaway employee.&nbsp;
Musk was the lowest-paid S&amp;P 500 CEO and received $0 in compensation from Tesla in 2024, as his $56 billion multiyear pay package from 2018 remains embroiled in a legal battle.&nbsp;
Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/05/45675714/can-michael-burrys-nvidia-short-survive-the-stocks-stunning-comeback?utm_source=articleShare">&nbsp;</a>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/05/45675714/can-michael-burrys-nvidia-short-survive-the-stocks-stunning-comeback?utm_source=articleShare">Can Michael Burry&#8217;s Nvidia Short Survive The Stock&#8217;s Stunning Comeback?</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Large Cap

Movers & Shakers

ADBE

CARR

COHR

MSFT

NTNX

SBUX

Here Are The Highest Paid CEOs In 2024: Where Did Elon Musk, Warren Buffett Rank?

When Victoria&#8217;s Secret (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VSCO#NYSE">VSCO</a>) reported a cybersecurity breach on Tuesday that caused it to take its website offline for three days in late May, the fashion industry hardly batted an eyelash. 
But shareholders ought to take heed. The attack is just the latest in an increasingly high tide of corporate cyberattacks that are stripping revenues, reputations, and sometimes entire business models, away. 
As cyber threats keep pace with AI adoption, investors are increasingly looking to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">cybersecurity ETFs</a>.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/25/06/45755138/small-caps-surge-dollar-general-stock-eyes-best-day-crude-hits-2-week-highs-whats-driving-markets-tuesday">Small Caps Surge, Dollar General Stock Eyes Best Day, Crude Hits 2-Week Highs: What&#8217;s Driving Markets Tuesday?</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cybersecurity ETFs To Consider</h3>
The worldwide cybersecurity industry is <a href="https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/cyber-security-market-101165">projected </a>to grow to $562.72 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 14.3%, as per Fortune Business Insights. This broader secular trend has yielded compelling opportunities for investors through sector-specific ETFs. A brief summary of the major players follows:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>First Trust NASDAQ Cybersecurity ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CIBR#NASDAQ">CIBR</a>): With a one-day average volume of around 565,000 shares, this is the most liquid cybersecurity ETF. It has returned 39% over the past year, making it a strong contender for both active traders and long-term holders. The fund carries an expense ratio of 0.59%.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Amplify Cybersecurity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HACK#NYSE">HACK</a>): Another top-performing ETF, up 41% in the past year. From Broadcom (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) and Cisco (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>) to Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) and Fortinet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTNT#NASDAQ">FTNT</a>), HACK offers diversified exposure to cybersecurity firms globally. The ETF carries an expense ratio of 0.6%.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>iShares Cybersecurity &amp; Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHAK#NYSE">IHAK</a>) and Global X Cybersecurity ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BUG#NASDAQ">BUG</a>): Good choices for those seeking diversified, low-cost exposure with a bias toward tech. The funds have expense ratios of 0.47% and 0.51%, respectively. The ETFs are up 18% and 29% in the past year, respectively.</li>
</ul>
As per a Statista <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/675399/us-government-spending-cyber-security/">report</a>, for FY 2025, the US government has put forward close to $13 billion of budgetary spending on cybersecurity, an increase of 10% from last fiscal year. It&#8217;s a sign that cybersecurity is now viewed as core infrastructure.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Back To Victoria&#8217;s Secret</h3>
Although Victoria&#8217;s Secret denies the three-day website shutdown affected Q1 profits, the company highlights one of the most important risks that have become far too commonplace: digital-platform-based businesses are one hack away from customer pandemonium and market cap loss.
Retail is not singular. Marks &amp; Spencer was recently hit by a ransomware <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0el31nqnpvo">attack </a>that froze online orders for weeks. The company lost an estimated £300 million, cutting its profits by nearly a third. That is not merely a technology problem, it is a complete financial debacle.
And then there&#8217;s the health sector, with 440+ ransomware attacks in 2024, the highest in any of the key infrastructure sectors, <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2025/05/20/politics/ransomware-attack-medical-centers">according </a>to CNN, deducing from IC3 report. In 2024, losses <a href="https://www.ic3.gov/AnnualReport/Reports/2024_IC3Report.pdf">reported </a>to IC3 totaled a staggering $16.6 billion, with ransomware as the most &#8220;pervasive threat to critical infrastructure, with complaints rising 9% from 2023.&#8221;
The irony? A lot of the risk is being fueled by the same technology companies are adopting to improve operations: AI. As companies use AI tools to automate processes and track customer behavior, they simultaneously create new <a href="https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2024/PSA241203">threats</a>.
That duality is fueling both fear and money, and ETF investors are surfing that trend.
Bottom Line: The cybersecurity theme has matured from a defensive hedge to a bona fide growth opportunity. Investors who want to future-proof their portfolios would do well to consider investing in ETFs that target this sector. Whether retail, healthcare, or geopolitics, cyberattacks aren&#8217;t disappearing. But with the proper investments, the prospect of returns could be just as enduring.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/new-etfs/25/06/45753210/first-trust-launches-balanced-income-etf-ftbi-with-3-pronged-strategy-across-stocks-bonds-gold">First Trust Launches Balanced Income ETF (FTBI) With 3-Pronged Strategy Across Stocks, Bonds &amp; Gold</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

IHAK

VSCO

Why Victoria's Secret's Breach Is A Wake-Up Call For Cybersecurity ETF Investors

Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 10.11% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 21.13%. Currently, Palo Alto Networks has a market capitalization of $129.80 billion. 
Buying $100 In PANW: If an investor had bought $100 of PANW stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $676.52 today based on a price of $194.66 for PANW at the time of writing.
<h3>Palo Alto Networks's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1748907919_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Here's How Much $100 Invested In Palo Alto Networks 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

Analyst Ratings

Live On CNBC, Malcolm Ethridge Announces Sold Palo Alto Networks

Live On CNBC, Stephanie Link Announces Bought More Palo Alto Networks

Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives maintained an Outperform rating on Palo Alto Networks, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) with a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PANW/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast of $225</a> on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, Palo Alto Networks delivered its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45530408/palo-alto-reports-q3-earnings-raises-fy25-guidance-shares-slide" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiscal third-quarter</a> results, which featured beats in revenue, EPS, and NGS ARR. At the same time, RPO came in line with the Street as the company accelerates its platformization strategy heading into fiscal 2026, and beyond, more customers are looking to consolidate their security vendors, Ives noted.
Total revenues were $2.29 billion, at the high end of the guidance range of $2.26 billion—$2.29 billion and slightly above the Street&#8217;s estimate of $2.28 billion.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45541664" rel="noreferrer noopener">PANW CEO Warns Traditional IT Can&#8217;t Handle AI&#8217;s Next Phase: &#8216;&#8230;The Conversation Is Shifting To Agentic AI&#8217;</a>
In comparison, RPO accelerated 19% to $13.5 billion, compared to guidance of $13.50 billion—$13.60 billion and the Street&#8217;s estimate of $13.54 billion, as the company&#8217;s platformization continues to take hold.
As per the analyst, significant growth continues to be seen in XSIAM (Cortex), SASE (Prisma), and Product (Firewall) despite an uneasy macro in April.
NGS ARR grew to $5.09 billion (up 34%), which was above guidance of $5.03 billion-$5.08 billion and the Street&#8217;s estimate of $5.06 billion.
Palo Alto Networks reaffirmed that both its fiscal fourth-quarter NextGen Security ARR guidance of $5.52 billion-$5.57 billion (up 31%-32%) and RPO guide of $15.2 billion-$15.3 billion (up 19%-20%), as it is laying the foundation for its platformization approach heading into fiscal 2026 with AI front and center, the analyst noted.
Palo Alto Networks also provided fiscal fourth-quarter revenue guidance of $2.49 billion-$2.51 billion versus the Street of $2.50 billion, while EPS guidance of $0.87-$0.89 versus the Street of $0.87 as the company&#8217;s demand has stabilized after an uneasy April heading into the end of fiscal 2025, he said.
Overall, Palo Alto Networks continues to be one of Ives&#8217; favorite cybersecurity names to own over the next 12-18 months as he noted 2025 as a transition year for the company as platformization deals with cloud penetration are leading to strong deal flow and a more stable pipeline while being a prime beneficiary of AI spending as cybersecurity is a clear second or third derivative play on the AI Revolution as the company is in the driver&#8217;s seat to gain market or mind share in the cybersecurity landscape with the continued shift to the cloud.
Price Action:&nbsp;PANW is trading lower by 6.99% to $180.90 at last check Wednesday.
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Photo by Tada Images via Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Reiteration

Palo Alto's AI Momentum Make It A Top Cybersecurity Pick, Analyst Says

Northland Capital Markets analyst Nehal Chokshi maintains Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) with a Market Perform and lowers the price target from $210 to $177.

Northland Capital Markets Maintains Market Perform on Palo Alto Networks, Lowers Price Target to $177

Shares of Palo Alto Networks Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) continued to slide after the company reported its fiscal third-quarter results on Tuesday.
Here are some key analyst takeaways.
Goldman Sachs On Palo Alto Networks
<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 $215 to $231.
Palo Alto Networks reported a mixed quarter, with RPO and revenue in line with Street expectations, while EBIT margin and earnings beat estimates by 30 basis points (bps) and 3%, respectively, Borges said in a note. Management raised their full-year revenue, earnings, and margin projections to the high end of their prior guidance, she added.
The company noted that deal activity was impacted by macro uncertainty in early April, but the deal cycle normalized later in the month and into May, the analyst stated. "While we expect to see a number of next-gen vendors in AI security, we ultimately believe that this field will consolidate over time in favor of leaders such as Palo Alto, that have the ability and willingness to invest in technology leadership, outsource R&amp;D via M&amp;A, and realize attractive unit economics from cross sell," she further wrote.
TD Cowen On Palo Alto Networks
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/5968f79c988ca80001cea41a/shaul-eyal">Analyst Shaul Eyal</a> reiterated a Buy rating and price target of $230.
Palo Alto Networks' NGS ARR (next-generation security annual recurring revenue) grew by 34% year-on-year to $5.09 billion, exceeding the consensus of $5.06 billion, while RPO (remaining performance obligation) rose 19.5% year-on-year to $13.5 billion, almost in line with expectations, Eyal said. The company generated revenue growth of 15% year-on-year, taking its top line to $2.29 billion, above the consensus of $2.28 billion, he added.
The analyst stated that the results reflect "ongoing healthy platformization performance" and strong adoption of AI solutions in the fiscal third quarter. Palo Alto Networks has a robust pipeline for the fourth quarter, "lending itself for a strong FY25 finish," he wrote.
Piper Sandler On Palo Alto Networks
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/590783e6290fa70001409b4a/rob-owens">Analyst Rob Owens</a> reaffirmed a Neutral rating and price target of $200.
Owens said Palo Alto Networks recorded operating margins of 27.4%, beating consensus by around 30 bps. This took earnings to 80 cents per share, 3 cents per share higher than the top end of its guidance range.
However, bookings growth decelerated sequentially to 9%, from 15% in the previous quarter, the analyst stated. While the company said it faced uncertainty during April due to "geopolitical shifts," this has "largely subsided since," he further wrote.
Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a>.
KeyBanc Capital Markets On Palo Alto Networks
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/62eacb8a9bab060001dbd41a/eric-heath">Analyst Eric Heath</a> maintained an Overweight rating and price target of $220.
For the fiscal fourth quarter, Palo Alto Networks guided to revenues of $2.49-$2.51 billion, representing 14%-15% year-on-year growth, almost in line with consensus, Heath said. Its RPO guidance of $15.2-$15.3 billion incorporates 20% year-on-year growth, similar to the previous quarter, he added.
The analyst stated that the company raised its revenue guidance for the full year by $15 million to $9.17-$9.19 billion, up 14% and beating the consensus of $9.166 billion. NSG momentum remained robust, with "notable strength" from XSIAM (extended security intelligence and automation management).
JMP Securities On Palo Alto Networks
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/6298be750c34880001d668d9/trevor-walsh">Analyst Trevor Walsh</a> reiterated a Market Outperform rating and a price target of $212.
Palo Alto Networks reported its quarterly results modestly better than expected, Walsh said. The company guided to non-GAAP earnings of 87-89 cents per share for the fiscal fourth quarter, above consensus of 86 cents per share, he added.
Management indicated that "rapid and widespread" AI adoption was not only driving "the need to secure AI-specific resources but also further accelerating broader IT transformations, such as the transition to the cloud," the analyst further wrote.
Guggenheim Securities On Palo Alto Networks
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/587f78d077f9dd000126ef0f/john-difucci">Analyst John DiFucci</a> reaffirmed a Sell rating and price target of $130.
Palo Alto Networks' results were mixed, "with revenue about a half percent above the consensus number, driven by Product outperformance and partially offset by subscription underperformance," DiFucci said. The company maintained its full-year NGS ARR and RPO guidance, indicating growth between 31%-32% and 19%-20%, respectively, he added.
"Management acknowledged April weakness post Liberation Day, though this has leveled out, but not before resulting in dampened F3Q25 results, which carried over to mixed F4Q25 guidance (that may include some acquired Protect AI contribution that should close by F1Q)," the analyst wrote.
RBC Capital Markets On Palo Alto Networks
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/5880b6f377f9dd00011b0ab2/matthew-hedberg">Analyst Matthew Hedberg</a> maintained an Outperform rating and a price target of $232.
Palo Alto Networks reported solid results, despite some tariff related macro disruption in the quarter, Hedberg said. He added, however, that the macro environment normalized into May.
The company generated an AI ARR of $400 million, up from $250 million in the first quarter, and recorded an average ARR per customer of more than $1 million for XSIAM, the analyst stated. "Overall, we like the large-deal and newer product momentum fueling NGS ARR growth." 
PANW Price Action: At the time of publication on Wednesday, shares of Palo Alto Networks had declined by 5.99% to $182.83.
Read More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/25/05/45262278/under-armour-faces-tough-road-ahead-says-analyst">T-Mobile, Palo Alto Partner To Enhance 5G Cybersecurity For US Businesses</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

Earnings Beats

Palo Alto Networks Posts Solid 3Q, Next Gen Security Momentum Strong Despite Macro Uncertainty

Press Releases

Palo Alto Networks Announces Intent to Acquire Protect AI, a Game-Changing Security for AI Company

Palo Alto Networks Bolsters SASE Capabilities for Modern Workplace

Palo Alto Networks Cortex XSIAM Delivers Industry's First AI-Driven SecOps Platform to Span Proactive and Reactive Security

Palo Alto Networks to Announce Fiscal Third Quarter 2025 Financial Results on Tuesday, May 20, 2025

Growing Prevalence of Cyber Threats Causing Tech Companies to Invest Heavily in AI-Powered Cybersecurity Solutions

T-Mobile and Palo Alto Networks to Launch Managed SASE Offering for Wireless Devices

Palo Alto Networks Reports Fiscal Third Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Palo Alto Networks to Present at Upcoming Investor Event

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