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HIG

Some investors rely on dividends for growing their wealth, and if you're one of those dividend sleuths, you might be intrigued to know that The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:HIG) is about to go ex-dividend in just four days. The ex-dividend date is usually set to be one business day before the record date which is the cut-off date on which you must be present on the company's books as a shareholder in order to receive the dividend. The ex-dividend date is of consequence because whenever a stock is bought or sold, the trade takes at least two business day to settle. Meaning, you will need to purchase Hartford Financial Services Group's shares before the 1st of March to receive the dividend, which will be paid on the 2nd of April.The company's next dividend payment will be US$0.47 per share, and in the last 12 months, the company paid a total of US$1.88 per share. Based on the last year's worth of payments, Hartford Financial Services Group stock has a trailing yield of around 2.0% on the current share price of US$95.88. Dividends are an important source of income to many shareholders, but the health of the business is crucial to maintaining those dividends. So we need to investigate whether Hartford Financial Services Group can afford its dividend, and if the dividend could grow. View our latest analysis for Hartford Financial Services Group If a company pays out more in dividends than it earned, then the dividend might become unsustainable - hardly an ideal situation. Hartford Financial Services Group paid out just 22% of its profit last year, which we think is conservatively low and leaves plenty of margin for unexpected circumstances.Companies that pay out less in dividends than they earn in profits generally have more sustainable dividends. The lower the payout ratio, the more wiggle room the business has before it could be forced to cut the dividend.Click here to see the company's payout ratio, plus analyst estimates of its future dividends.Story continueshistoric-dividendHave Earnings And Dividends Been Growing?Stocks in companies that generate sustainable earnings growth often make the best dividend prospects, as it is easier to lift the dividend when earnings are rising. Investors love dividends, so if earnings fall and the dividend is reduced, expect a stock to be sold off heavily at the same time. Fortunately for readers, Hartford Financial Services Group's earnings per share have been growing at 15% a year for the past five years.The main way most investors will assess a company's dividend prospects is by checking the historical rate of dividend growth. In the past 10 years, Hartford Financial Services Group has increased its dividend at approximately 17% a year on average. It's great to see earnings per share growing rapidly over several years, and dividends per share growing right along with it.To Sum It UpShould investors buy Hartford Financial Services Group for the upcoming dividend? Companies like Hartford Financial Services Group that are growing rapidly and paying out a low fraction of earnings, are usually reinvesting heavily in their business. This strategy can add significant value to shareholders over the long term - as long as it's done without issuing too many new shares. Overall, Hartford Financial Services Group looks like a promising dividend stock in this analysis, and we think it would be worth investigating further.Wondering what the future holds for Hartford Financial Services Group? See what the 16 analysts we track are forecasting, with this visualisation of its historical and future estimated earnings and cash flowIf you're in the market for strong dividend payers, we recommend checking our selection of top dividend stocks.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:HIG) Passed Our Checks, And It's About To Pay A US$0.47 Dividend

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hartford-financial-services-group-inc-121909424.html

594687d4-844c-38f0-91ad-a258bb93e7bc

HIG

In this piece, we are going to look at the 10 Best Car Insurance in Texas for 2024. If you want to skip our detailed market analysis, you can go directly to 5 Best Car Insurance in Texas for 2024.Exploring the top car insurance options in Texas for 2024 shows us a dynamic industry influenced by both global and local factors. Industry experts expect a solid 7.1% growth rate in the global car insurance market from 2023 to 2028, and the US commercial auto insurance market is set to boom, hitting around $71.68 billion by 2030. Looks like insurers are in for some big opportunities!The US property and casualty insurance industry is also on the upswing after a tough year, with premium hikes, lower claims costs, and better investment returns setting the stage for a more profitable future. And for everyday people, the average annual car insurance cost in the US is about $2,014, with basic coverage averaging a cool $622 a year. Considering the unique car insurance scene in Texas, where average rate for full insurance is $2,019, which is a bit higher than the national average at around $2,014 per year, it's essential to explore the top 10 insurers in the country. Companies like Safety Insurance Group Inc. (NASDAQ:SAFT), The Allstate Corporation (NYSE:ALL), and The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:HIG) are just some of the big players in the local market. With a focus on both local specifics and broader trends, we're here to guide you through the ins and outs of choosing the best car insurance while staying informed about what's happening in the industry at a national level.The Allstate Corporation (NYSE:ALL)The Allstate Corporation (NYSE:ALL) is a major insurance force in the US with a foothold in personal lines insurance in Canada. They offer a wide range of insurance options for individuals and businesses.Their financial standings are impressive too, with a hefty $55.911 billion in revenue for the 12 months ending in September 2023, showing a strong 10.12% growth. The Allstate Corporation (NYSE:ALL) growth numbers speak volumes about their adaptability and market expertise.Story continuesSafety Insurance Group Inc. (NASDAQ:SAFT)Safety Insurance (NASDAQ: SAFT) is a big player in the industry, ranking third in private passenger auto, top in commercial auto, and third in homeowners insurance. They've been steadily growing, and their financial stats reflect that.In the 12 months ending in September 2023, Safety Insurance Group Inc. (NASDAQ:SAFT) brought in a whopping $899.16 million in revenue, showing a solid uptick of 12.77%. In the same period, they raked in $229.36 million in revenue, a hearty 19.24% increase. All that cash flow points to Safety Insurance's strength and customer commitment.The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:HIG)The Hartford Financial Services Group (NYSE: HIG), a top insurance group based in Connecticut, offering various insurance products like workers’ comp and property insurance. Their revenue was $24.14 billion for the 12 months ending in September 2023, with a solid 8.94% increase. In the last quarter, they saw revenue of $6.17 billion, marking a 10.54% boost compared to the previous year. While there was a slight dip in 2022, The Hartford Financial Services Group (NYSE: HIG) remains a trusted name in the insurance biz.10 Best Car Insurance in Texas for 2024An auto warehouse filled with newly acquired used cars.MethodologyAlright, here's how we figure out the Best Car Insurance In Texas For 2024. We dive deep into the nitty-gritty details of the average annual full-coverage rates. Full coverage is like the superhero of insurance—it's got your back against all sorts of mishaps and damages. Forbes Advisor highlights how most drivers are all about that comprehensive and collision coverage life, showing how essential these coverages are to keep you and your wheels safe.Now, we don't just stop at the price tag. We take a closer look at the specific annual payment rates geared towards a 30-year-old guy with good credit holding a full-coverage policy. Why this demographic? Well, age and credit score play a big role in how much you pay for insurance, so it gives us a good baseline to work with. This info is key for our examination, especially when you think about how diverse driving can be in Texas. We aim to give you the full scoop on both affordability and coverage depth, helping you make smart choices that fit your budget and protection needs. Our goal is to guide you through the maze of insurance options, so you can pick the Best Car Insurance In Texas For 2024.By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.10. FarmersAverage Annual Cost: $3,106As the seventh-largest auto insurance company in the country, Farmers Insurance occupies a middle-ranking position in terms of affordability for different types of drivers. While it may not offer the most cost-effective options, Farmers Insurance is a preferred choice for those driving specialty vehicles such as classic or collector's automobiles. If you own a unique car, Farmers Insurance is a commendable option for obtaining customized and dependable auto insurance coverage.9. The Progressive Corporation (NYSE:PGR)Average Annual Cost: $2,030The Progressive Corporation (NYSE:PGR) is a reliable choice for both auto and motorcycle insurance, featuring a distinctive accident forgiveness program that differentiates it from other providers. For new customers in most states, The Progressive Corporation (NYSE:PGR) automatically includes some protection that prevents an increase in car insurance rates following a minor accident caused by the policyholder. Progressive stands out for its wide array of discounts offered to drivers.Additionally, the company provides the Snapshot program, which allows customers to earn discounts by demonstrating safe driving behaviors. The combination of unique offerings like accident forgiveness and the availability of various discount opportunities make Progressive a standout and customer-focused option for individuals in search of comprehensive and cost-effective auto and motorcycle insurance coverage.8. Auto Club of SoCalAverage Annual Cost: $1,755Auto Club of Southern California Insurance provides geographic-focused coverage options through its regional clubs, offering personalized service with local agents available to assist customers. Members may also enjoy additional perks and benefits associated with AAA membership. However, customer satisfaction levels can vary among different regional clubs, and the digital tools provided by the insurance carrier may not be as advanced as those offered by other providers. Additionally, membership with the Auto Club of Southern California may be required to access its insurance products and services.7. The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV)Average Annual Cost: $1,681Despite its slightly elevated base rates compared to other providers, The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV) is able to provide more affordable overall coverage costs, particularly for those who are eligible for its range of discounts. Travelers offers standard auto insurance coverages like liability, comprehensive, and collision, but what distinguishes it is the wide variety of additional coverage options that extend beyond the usual offerings.Notably, The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV) features special benefits, such as premier new-car replacement coverage and two accident forgiveness plans, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking comprehensive insurance coverage with added advantages. Even though the base rates may be higher, the potential for cost savings through discounts and the incorporation of exclusive coverage options make Travelers a compelling choice for meeting a variety of insurance needs.6. State Farm Growth (NASDAQ:STFGX)Average Annual Cost: $1,657State Farm Growth (NASDAQ:STFGX) is distinguished by its wide range of auto insurance discounts, including incentives for good students and safe drivers, paired with reliable customer service to streamline the claims process. In addition to auto insurance, State Farm Growth (NASDAQ:STFGX) offers a comprehensive selection of financial products, such as bank accounts, personal loans, investments, and various insurance options like motorcycle, boat, small business, life, and health coverage.A notable benefit is that State Farm's auto insurance premiums are typically 44% lower than those of its rivals. For individuals seeking personalized service, State Farm's extensive network of over 19,000 agents ensures a local and tailored experience. Furthermore, State Farm accommodates the preferences of those who value online convenience, making it a suitable option for managing insurance policies digitally.Click to continue reading and find out about 5 Best Car Insurance in Texas for 2024.Suggested Articles:15 Best Earthquake Insurance Companies Heading into 202415 Best Senior Life Insurance Companies Heading into 202415 Best Multi Policy Insurance Companies Heading into 2024Disclosure: None. 10 Best Car Insurance in Texas for 2024 is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

10 Best Car Insurance in Texas for 2024

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/10-best-car-insurance-texas-123434899.html

67d024d7-7462-309f-8c8a-abaaa334ee75

HIG

Deepa Soni (Photo: Business Wire)Steve Deane (Photo: Business Wire)Insurer expands Deepa Soni’s role as chief information officer and head of Technology, Data, Analytics & Cyber to include OperationsHARTFORD, Conn., March 04, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Hartford is bringing together its Operations and Technology, Data, Analytics & Cyber functions under Soni’s leadership to advance the company’s strategy and deliver exceptional value to customers and business partners."Over the past several years, we have invested aggressively in technology – expanding digital capabilities, simplifying processes and platforms, and applying data, analytics and artificial intelligence to enhance products, services and customer experience across the enterprise," said The Hartford’s Chairman and CEO Christopher Swift. "Combining customer-facing operations with our technology centers of expertise accelerates the benefits of our investments and supports the company’s ambitious growth agenda."John Kinney, who joined The Hartford in 2003 and has led Claims and Operations since 2021, will leave the company effective April 5. With Kinney’s departure, Steve Deane, the company’s chief claims officer, now reports directly to Swift. Apart from Kinney’s departure, all changes are effective immediately.Soni, who remains a direct report to Swift, joined The Hartford in 2019 after growing her career in the banking sector. Since assuming her current role in 2021, she has led the company’s technology transformation, including migration to cloud-based digital platforms, and increased use of automation/artificial intelligence and advanced data and analytics.Since joining the company in 2003, Kinney assumed roles of increasing responsibility and became an influential member of the enterprise leadership team. In addition to spearheading the use of claims data to improve outcomes for claimants and employers, he was a powerful voice for inclusion across The Hartford and served as the executive sponsor of the company’s Black Insurance Professionals Network (BIPN) employee resource group since 2019.Story continuesSwift added, "I am personally grateful for John’s leadership and deeply value his many contributions to The Hartford. The organizational changes announced today demonstrate our disciplined approach to leader development and succession planning. I am confident in our talented management team and excited about all that lies ahead for our company."About The HartfordThe Hartford is a leader in property and casualty insurance, group benefits and mutual funds. With more than 200 years of expertise, The Hartford is widely recognized for its service excellence, sustainability practices, trust and integrity. More information on the company and its financial performance is available at https://www.thehartford.com.The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., (NYSE: HIG) operates through its subsidiaries under the brand name, The Hartford, and is headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut. For additional details, please read The Hartford’s legal notice.HIG-CSome of the statements in this release may be considered forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We caution investors that these forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results may differ materially. Investors should consider the important risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ. These important risks and uncertainties include those discussed in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Forms 10-Q, and the other filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We assume no obligation to update this release, which speaks as of the date issued.From time to time, The Hartford may use its website and/or social media channels to disseminate material company information. Financial and other important information regarding The Hartford is routinely accessible through and posted on our website at https://ir.thehartford.com. In addition, you may automatically receive email alerts and other information about The Hartford when you enroll your email address by visiting the "Email Alerts" section at https://ir.thehartford.com.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240304862308/en/ContactsMedia Contact: Michelle [email protected] 

Business Wire

The Hartford Announces New Organizational Structure Combining Operations And Technology

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hartford-announces-organizational-structure-combining-120500077.html

dcb19383-faef-367e-bbfa-a85b86b0c82b

HIG

HARTFORD, Conn., March 04, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Hartford has been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® for the 15th time, as designated by Ethisphere, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices."We are proud to once again be honored for upholding the highest standards of ethics and compliance for our customers, partners, communities and shareholders," said The Hartford’s Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer Charlene Ridgeway. "The World’s Most Ethical Companies recognition demonstrates our employees’ commitment to leading with integrity. We congratulate everyone at The Hartford for this exceptional achievement."The Hartford’s culture of integrity is driven by strong ethics, governance and compliance programs, focusing on leadership accountability and ongoing education for employees. During the company’s annual Ethics and Compliance week, and throughout the year, employees receive in-depth training on appropriate business conduct and behaviors, highlighting the importance of operating with integrity."It’s always inspiring to recognize the World’s Most Ethical Companies. Through the rigorous review process, we see the dedication of these organizations to continually improving their ethics, compliance, and governance practices to the benefit of all stakeholders," said Erica Salmon Byrne, Ethisphere’s Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Chair. "Companies that elevate best-in-class cultures of ethics and integrity set a standard for corporate citizenship for their peers and competitors to follow. Congratulations to The Hartford for achieving this honor and demonstrating that strong ethics is good business."Ethisphere recognizes organizations that continue to elevate the standards for ethical leadership and corporate behavior. In 2024, 135 honorees were recognized spanning 19 countries and 44 industries.The World’s Most Ethical Companies evaluation process covers five key categories: culture of ethics, compliance and ethics activities, diversity, initiatives to support a strong value chain, and environmental, social and governance practices.Story continuesFor more about The Hartford’s commitment to Corporate Sustainability, visit https://www.thehartford.com/about-us/corporate-sustainability.About The HartfordThe Hartford is a leader in property and casualty insurance, group benefits and mutual funds. With more than 200 years of expertise, The Hartford is widely recognized for its service excellence, sustainability practices, trust and integrity. More information on the company and its financial performance is available at https://www.thehartford.com.The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., (NYSE: HIG) operates through its subsidiaries under the brand name, The Hartford, and is headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut. For additional details, please read The Hartford’s legal notice.HIG-CSome of the statements in this release may be considered forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We caution investors that these forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results may differ materially. Investors should consider the important risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ. These important risks and uncertainties include those discussed in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Forms 10-Q, and the other filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We assume no obligation to update this release, which speaks as of the date issued.From time to time, The Hartford may use its website and/or social media channels to disseminate material company information. Financial and other important information regarding The Hartford is routinely accessible through and posted on our website at https://ir.thehartford.com. In addition, you may automatically receive email alerts and other information about The Hartford when you enroll your email address by visiting the "Email Alerts" section at https://ir.thehartford.com.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240304278385/en/ContactsMedia Contact: Suzanne [email protected] Ethisphere Contact: Anne [email protected]

Business Wire

The Hartford Named One Of ‘World’s Most Ethical Companies’ For 15th Time by Ethisphere

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hartford-named-one-world-most-190000525.html

f66488cf-d6e5-3ccb-a27a-f9d830c2b863

HII

HIIKennedy (CVN 79) Dead Load TestingHII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division recently began topside testing of the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) on aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) (Photo by Ashley Cowan/HII).NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HII (NYSE: HII) announced today that its Newport News Shipbuilding division (NNS) recently began topside testing of the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) on aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy (CVN 79).EMALS, first integrated into USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), replaces the existing steam catapults currently in use on the U.S. Navy’s Nimitz-class aircraft carriers.Following successful “no-load” testing on catapults one and two, known as the ‘bow cats,’ the NNS team, alongside the John F. Kennedy crew, has now started “dead-load” testing. In this phase, large, wheeled, car-like structures of graduated weights up to 80,000 pounds to simulate the weight of actual aircraft are launched off the carrier’s bow into the James River. They are then retrieved and relaunched until the conclusion of the test program to ensure the catapults are ready for their primary intended purpose: to launch all carrier-based fixed wing aircraft flown by the U.S. Navy.The first dead loads used in this testing have special significance. Family members of shipbuilders signed them with messages of congratulations and gratitude during the shipyard’s Family Day held in October.DCS24-21-108Photos and video accompanying this release is available at: https://hii.com/news/hii-newport-news-shipbuilding-carrier-cvn-79-dead-load-testing/.“As we make sustained progress in the construction, testing and turnover of John F. Kennedy, reaching the dead load testing phase is a visual demonstration of how far we’ve come,” said Lucas Hicks, vice president, John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) new construction aircraft carrier program. “It is evident from the thousands of written messages that our shipbuilders and their families appreciate and understand the significance of our work. We are proud of the incredible teamwork that has brought us to this point, and remain committed to delivering this mighty aircraft carrier to the fleet so the crew can carry out the important mission ahead.”Story continues“The first dead-load launch off the flight deck is a historic moment for PCU John F. Kennedy, and a testament to the power of great teamwork between our JFK crew, HII team, and NAVAIR engineers,” said CAPT Colin Day, commanding officer, PCU John F. Kennedy (CVN 79). “I’m particularly proud of our Air Department and the hard-working Aviation Boatswain Mates who worked tirelessly alongside the engineering and testing teams to get us to this critical moment.”Traveling more than 300 feet down the catapult track at more than 150 miles per hour, EMALS provides expanded operational capability at reduced costs, higher launch-energy capacity, and more accurate end-speed control, with a smooth acceleration at both high and low speeds. The launch profiles have been optimized to reduce stress on the aircraft, in contrast to the sudden acceleration of steam catapults.Kennedy is the second Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier under construction at NNS, which is the nation’s sole designer, builder and refueler of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. In addition to Kennedy, two other Ford-class carriers are under construction at NNS: Enterprise (CVN 80) and Doris Miller (CVN 81).About HIIHII is a global, all-domain defense provider. HII’s mission is to deliver the world’s most powerful ships and all-domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world.As the nation’s largest military shipbuilder, and with a more than 135-year history of advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities extending from ships to unmanned systems, cyber, ISR, AI/ML and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HII’s workforce is 44,000 strong. For more information, visit:HII on the web: https://www.HII.com/HII on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHIIHII on X: https://www.twitter.com/WeAreHIIHII on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WeAreHIIContact:Todd [email protected](757) 688-3220A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2e040a04-5924-451d-af9d-fba19ea8a160

GlobeNewswire

HII Begins Topside EMALS Testing on John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) at Newport News Shipbuilding

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hii-begins-topside-emals-testing-193000386.html

5a15fbd4-715d-3d76-ae27-301d268e2812

HII

HIIMassachusetts (SSN 798) launchVirginia-class attack submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) was recently launched into the James River at HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division (Photo by Ashley Cowan/HII).NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Feb. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HII (NYSE: HII) announced today that Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) was recently launched into the James River at the company’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division.Shipbuilders transferred the submarine from a construction facility to the floating dry dock, where it was later submerged and moved by tugboats to a submarine pier at the shipyard for final outfitting, testing and crew certification.“Following the christening of this mighty submarine in May, witnessing Massachusetts launch into the river is a source of immense pride for our shipbuilding team,” said Jason Ward, NNS vice president of Virginia-class submarine construction. “We understand the importance of Massachusetts, and we will continue to execute with purpose to bring this important national security asset to life and deliver it to the Navy.”Virginia-class nuclear-powered fast attack submarines are built for a broad spectrum of open-ocean and littoral missions to replace the Navy’s Los Angeles-class submarines as they are retired. Virginia-class submarines incorporate dozens of new technologies and innovations that increase firepower, maneuverability and stealth to significantly enhance their warfighting capabilities. These submarines are capable of supporting multiple mission areas and can operate at speeds of more than 25 knots.DCS23-387-309Photos and video accompanying this release are available at: https://hii.com/news/hii-launches-virginia-class-submarine-massachusetts-ssn-798-newport-news-shipbuilding/.Massachusetts is the 25th Virginia-class submarine and will be the 12th delivered by NNS, which is one of only two shipyards capable of designing and building nuclear-powered submarines for the U.S. Navy.About HIIHII is a global, all-domain defense provider. HII’s mission is to deliver the world’s most powerful ships and all-domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world.Story continuesAs the nation’s largest military shipbuilder, and with a more than 135-year history of advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities extending from ships to unmanned systems, cyber, ISR, AI/ML and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HII’s workforce is 44,000 strong. For more information, visit:HII on the web: https://www.HII.com/HII on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHIIHII on X: https://www.twitter.com/WeAreHIIHII on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WeAreHIIContact:Todd [email protected](757) 688-3220A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4883df04-4be6-4148-9f07-bf7939671605

GlobeNewswire

HII Launches Virginia-class Submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) at Newport News Shipbuilding

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hii-launches-virginia-class-submarine-191500195.html

5d33a5fa-5682-3f9f-a3a4-d53f8c8b57c1

HII

HIIRichard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29) trialsHII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division has successfully completed acceptance trials for amphibious transport dock Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29) in the Gulf of Mexico during builder’s trials in February 2024.PASCAGOULA, Miss., March 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HII’s (NYSE: HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division announced today the successful completion of acceptance trials in the Gulf of Mexico for amphibious transport dock Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29), the final Flight I transition ship before Ingalls moves into serial production of the LPD Flight II line.“We have had a successful trial and it is only through the efforts of our shipbuilders and our dedicated Navy and industry partners that we now move solely into the Flight II ships,” Ingalls Shipbuilding President Kari Wilkinson said. “Our team remains fully committed to delivering these important assets to the Navy-Marine Corps team.”The Ingalls’ Test and Trials team spent several days with the U.S. Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey running the ship at full power and through steering maneuvers. The team will now complete final finish work on the San Antonio-class ship in preparation for delivery to the U.S. Navy in weeks ahead.LPD 29_Bravo Sea Trials_RH_January 31, 2024_4Photos and video accompanying this release are available at: https://hii.com/news/hii-completes-acceptance-trials-on-richard-m-mccool-jr-lpd-29/.“Congratulations to our shipbuilders on accomplishing this milestone and getting the ship ready for delivery,” Ingalls Shipbuilding Ship Program Manager Davianne Stokes said. “The LPD 29 team has worked very hard to make these sea trials a success, and I couldn’t be more proud of how they have prevailed.”Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 12 San Antonio-class ships and currently has three LPDs under construction, including Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29), the final transition ship; Harrisburg (LPD 30), the first Flight II LPD; and Pittsburgh (LPD 31). Ingalls was also awarded in March 2023 a modification contract for the procurement of the detail design and construction of Philadelphia (LPD 32), the 16th ship in the San Antonio class and the third LPD Flight II.San Antonio-class ships can support a variety of amphibious assault, special operations, or expeditionary warfare missions, operating independently or as part of Amphibious Readiness Groups (ARGs), Expeditionary Strike Groups, or joint task forces. These capabilities allow the U.S. Navy to protect America's security abroad and promote regional stability and preserve future peace.Story continuesAbout HIIHII is a global, all-domain defense provider. HII’s mission is to deliver the world’s most powerful ships and all-domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world.As the nation’s largest military shipbuilder, and with a more than 135-year history of advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities extending from ships to unmanned systems, cyber, ISR, AI/ML and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HII’s workforce is 44,000 strong. For more information, visit:HII on the web: https://www.HII.com/HII on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHIIHII on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/WeAreHIIHII on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WeAreHIIContact:Kimberly K. [email protected] photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a0528b8b-9cca-44d5-8c2c-11e7a25f5d76

GlobeNewswire

HII Completes Acceptance Trials on Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29)

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hii-completes-acceptance-trials-richard-133000132.html

bb303abc-cded-3211-9cb4-cbfd708dc435

HII

HIIIngalls VIP Visit March 2024Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti and Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Christopher Mahoney joined U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss, for a visit to HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division on Monday, March 4, 2024.PASCAGOULA, Miss., March 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HII (NYSE: HII) announced that Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti and Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Christopher Mahoney joined U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss, for a visit to the company’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division today.While in Pascagoula, Franchetti, Mahoney and Wicker toured the shipyard’s facilities and met with Ingalls leadership for an overview of the ships under construction and the investments being made within the shipyard. During the visit, the group toured guided missile destroyers USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) and Ted Stevens (DDG 128), amphibious assault ship Bougainville (LHA 8), and amphibious transport dock Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29).“We were honored to host Adm. Franchetti, Gen. Mahoney and Sen. Wicker and showcase the hard work being accomplished by our dedicated shipbuilders every day,” Ingalls Shipbuilding President Kari Wilkinson said. “As we continue to invest in our people, facilities and processes, we can best position ourselves to fully support the needs of our Navy and Marine Corps partners.”CNO ACMC Wicker_LHA 8_RH_March 4, 2024-2_editA photo accompanying this release is available at: https://hii.com/news/hii-hosts-naval-leaders-at-ingalls-shipbuilding.Adm. Franchetti, who was sworn in as the nation’s 33rd chief of naval operations in November 2023, also met with crewmembers of ships currently at Ingalls. This visit marked CNO’s first trip to Ingalls Shipbuilding as chief of naval operations and was part of a series of visits to Gulf Coast shipyards.“It’s been just over two years since McCool’s launch, and because of each and every one of you, this ship will be ready and fiercely capable in this decisive decade and for the many decades that follow,” said Franchetti to the shipyard workers, industry members and ship’s crew aboard Richard M. McCool Jr. “I want each of you to know that I am proud of you, and I’m proud of all that you are doing to ensure our Navy remains the most powerful Navy in the world.”Story continuesDuring the visit, the group had the opportunity to see first-hand the work taking place in support of the Navy and Marine Corps.“The importance of these shipyards cannot be overstated,” Mahoney said. “Manufacturing and production is essential to a strong economy and America’s maritime advantage relies on the ships that carry our Marines and Sailors around the globe. Both of those things are on display here — on these lines with these hard working men and women. It was great to meet some of them and hear their stories. Their work is critical to our National Defense.”Wicker echoed Mahoney’s statements saying, “I will always showcase our skilled Mississippi shipbuilders and the impressive work they do along the coast. The Navy, Marine Corps, and world benefit from what comes out of our shipyards. As one of Mississippi’s U.S. Senators and the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I look for every opportunity to advance our state’s national defense contributions.”Since 2015, HII has invested nearly $1 billion in the Ingalls Shipbuilding infrastructure, facility and toolsets enabling shipbuilders to improve product flow and process efficiency, and enhance product quality. Additionally, HII continues to invest in and expand local talent pipelines in order to meet the current and future needs of our nation’s military.About HIIHII is a global, all-domain defense provider. HII’s mission is to deliver the world’s most powerful ships and all-domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world.As the nation’s largest military shipbuilder, and with a more than 135-year history of advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities extending from ships to unmanned systems, cyber, ISR, AI/ML and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HII’s workforce is 44,000 strong. For more information, visit:HII on the web: https://www.HII.com/HII on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHIIHII on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/WeAreHIIHII on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WeAreHIIContact: Kimberly K. [email protected] photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fc61cabe-1d6f-4036-a7f8-0c4c2496e93c

GlobeNewswire

HII Hosts Naval Leaders at Ingalls Shipbuilding

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hii-hosts-naval-leaders-ingalls-233000540.html

7c231e66-439d-3125-aae9-5380196cd2c8

HLT

In this article, we will look at the world’s 16 most expensive private islands to visit. We will also discuss the global hotels and resorts industry along with its key players. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, head straight to the World’s 5 Most Expensive Private Islands to Visit.Global Hotels and Resorts - Industry OutlookThe Global Hotels and Resorts industry has experienced major fluctuations over the past few years. From 2018 to 2023, industry revenue grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.1%, reaching $1.5 trillion in 2023. However, the industry faced challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused a sharp decline in revenue in 2020. Despite the pandemic's impact, industry revenue rebounded by 12.3% in 2023, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.Employment within the industry also saw fluctuations, with the number of employees increasing by 9.5% from 2018 to 2023, reaching a total of 16 million. However, the pandemic led to disruptions in the workforce, particularly with business travel declining and online meetings becoming more prevalent. Despite this, the industry has rebounded, though challenges remain as new virus variants and inflation levels affect travel demand. Nevertheless, hospitality is one of the industries hiring in the US rightnow. Looking ahead to the period from 2024 to 2029, the Global Hotels and Resorts industry is projected to continue growing, buoyed by factors such as the influx of tourist dollars and improving global economic conditions. Key Players in the Globel Hotels and Resorts IndustryAs an example of the industry’s growth, we are going to look at current developments at the Marriott International, Inc (NASDAQ:MAR), one of the key players in the hotel and resort industry globally.During the earnings review conference call on February 13, Marriott International, Inc (NASDAQ:MAR) projected returning $4.1 to $4.3 billion to shareholders. In 2023, it integrated 558 properties with over 81,000 rooms, expanding its global portfolio to nearly 8,800 hotels and resorts with 1.59 million rooms. Presently, 3,379 properties are in development, with over a thousand under construction. The anticipated growth in RevPAR stands at 4-5% for Q1 and 3-5% for the year, contributing to an adjusted EBITDA of $4.9 to $5 billion. With net rooms growth projected at 5.5 to 6 percent, Marriott International Inc (NASDAQ:MAR) anticipates another year of strong expansion and huge shareholder returns.Story continuesOn the other hand, in 2024, Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc (NYSE:HLT) is set to expand its global footprint with the addition of 24 new properties across continents, adding to its existing portfolio of 7,000 properties worldwide. This expansion confirms Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc (NYSE:HLT)’s status as a major player in the hospitality industry, offering a diverse range of brands including DoubleTree, Signia, Canopy, and Waldorf Astoria. With each new property, travelers will have more options to choose from, whether they're seeking luxury accommodations or budget-friendly stays.The Americas will see several new Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc (NYSE:HLT) properties, such as the Signia by Hilton Atlanta. This landmark development will be the tallest building on Atlanta's westside and direct access to the Georgia World Congress Center. Across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc (NYSE:HLT)’s expansion will continue with properties like the Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, providing luxury accommodations amid untouched natural beauty. In Vienna, the largest Hampton by Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc (NYSE:HLT) in Europe is set to open with modern amenities and proximity to historic attractions. Love for Islands and Beaches - ExplainedIn a recent Washington Post poll conducted among 1,022 adults, it was revealed that 72% of respondents expressed a favorable opinion about a beach vacation, while 66% did so for a mountain vacation. Interestingly, gender plays a pertinent role as women are 11 percentage points more likely to favor a beach vacation and 19 points more likely to "strongly" favor it over mountains. Conversely, an equal number of men showed contentment with either option.Furthermore, family dynamics and age impact preferences; 83% of parents with children under 18 prefer beach vacations, compared to empty nesters. Age-wise, 80% of women under 50 lean towards the beach. Regional differences also emerge, with the beach favored by 17 points in the Northeast and 10 points in the South. However, in the West, mountains surpass beaches, with a 76% preference compared to 70%.One of the biggest reasons why so many people are fond of islands and beaches is the tranquil sound of waves and the vastness of the ocean that induces relaxation and alleviate stress. Secondly, the scenic beauty of these locations, with their sandy shores and clear waters, offers a visually pleasing environment for leisure activities and contemplation. Additionally, engaging in water sports or simply swimming provides a sense of exhilaration and adventure to different types of people. Speaking of beaches, Nantucket has been named the most expensive beach destination in the world, according to a recent survey.On the other hand, the Banwa Private Island, once the world's most expensive island resorts at $100,000 per night, slashed rates to $45,000 during pandemic with an aim to shake off the label. Despite the decrease, a three-night minimum stay still tallies $135,000 for exclusive charters. Individual villa bookings start from $2,500 nightly. The secluded paradise in Palawan's Sulu Sea offers privacy and personal attention, setting it apart from its famed counterparts.It is also worth highlighting that Cayman Islands are known to be one of the richest islands in the world per capita.The World’s 16 Most Expensive Private Islands to Visitkevin-wolf-zSOyfjBo1tk-unsplashOur MethodologyTo list the world’s 16 most expensive private islands to visit, we identified the most luxurious private islands in the world that offered an exclusive experience to the guests. While there are no fixed rates for renting these islands, we have tried to discuss the rates for each island to get as close as possible to the actual cost of renting the private island.By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.Here is a list of the most expensive private islands to visit in the world:16. Mustique Island, West IndiesMustique, a secluded gem among St. Vincent and the Grenadines, attracts the celebrity elite with its pristine beaches and exclusive villas. Accessible only via indirect flights, its allure lies in discretion and simplicity. Visitors are predominantly from the UK but are increasingly coming from North America to enjoy the laid-back ambiance, where luxury is understated. With nightly rates ranging from $600 to over $1,000, guests get to prioritize privacy and a highly exclusive environment. It is one of the most expensive islands to go to and is one of the most expensive islands in the Caribbean.15. Thanda Island, TanzaniaThanda Island lies in Tanzania's Mafia Archipelago. Spanning 20 acres, it boasts eco-friendly infrastructure, including solar panels and a desalinization plant.Collaborating with Tanzania Marine Parks and Sea Sense NGO, it supports research on sea turtles, whale sharks, and coral reefs. Surrounded by coral reefs, its waters host diverse marine life, including dolphins and five turtle species. Mafia Island nearby offers further marine exploration and cultural experiences. The property is available for $10,000 per night for upto ten guests. It is one of the most expensive private islands in the world.14. Como Cocoa Island, MaldivesGuests can enjoy world-class service, spa treatments, private diving reefs, and an infinity pool. The elegantly designed suites and villas, inspired by Dhoni boats, offer stunning ocean views. With amenities like Ayurvedic treatments, yoga classes, and a library, guests can truly unwind.One can get a three bed COMO sunset villa for over $11000, excluding taxes. 13. Lanai Island, United StatesLanai, part of Maui County, Hawaii, lies across the Auau Channel from Maui, formed by the extinct volcano Lanaihale. It spans 140 square miles (363 square kilometers), ranking as the sixth largest Hawaiian Island. Four Seasons Resort Lanai is one of the top resorts in Lanai, Hawaii. It costs around $2000 per night for a room of 2 adults. It is also one of the largest private islands in the world. 12. Tagomago Island, SpainLocated in the Baleares, Spain, Tagomago Island offers a truly exclusive retreat with its 600,000 square meters of pristine land, serene beaches, and captivating views of the Mediterranean. The luxurious villa, the island's sole residence, has modern interiors equipped with cutting-edge technology. With five double bedrooms, each featuring a spa-style en-suite bathroom and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sea and Ibiza's coastline, guests are treated to unparalleled comfort and relaxation. Rates start at $21,352 per night, accommodating up to 10 guests. It is one of the most expensive islands in Europe.11. Fregate Island, SeychellesFregate Island Private offers an unforgettable retreat with rates starting from $4,272 per day for a standard room.The island is famous for its snorkeling, diving, and proximity to prime fishing spots, actively participating in conservation efforts through the Seychelles Bill Fish Society tag and release program. It was also named CNN Travel Top 10 beaches.10. Velaa Island, MaldivesVelaa Private Island is popular for its commitment to privacy and peace as it offers a secluded tropical paradise in sync with the tranquil Maldivian lifestyle. Guests experience unparalleled care and attention with personalized butler service. The resort boasts unique dining experiences, including the Tavaru Tower with Teppanyaki grill cuisine, and Aragu, which blends European and Asian flavors. Activities range from sunset cruises to underwater adventures, while the Velaa Spa combines advanced technology with traditional techniques for a rejuvenating experience. The price of rooms ranges from $3121 to $5558 at Velaa Private Island. It is one of the 10 most expensive islands in the world.9. World Islands, United Arab EmiratesThe World Islands, situated off Dubai's coast in the Persian Gulf, form an artificial archipelago resembling a world map. Composed largely of sand dredged from local waters, the project was initiated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and developed by Nakheel Properties. Dutch firms Van Oord and Boskalis undertook construction, mirroring their work on the Palm Jumeirah, as part of Dubai's ambitious artificial island developments.Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort offers luxurious 5-star accommodations with stunning sea views. The resort boasts a range of amenities including a garden, outdoor swimming pool, and children's playground. Guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi and parking throughout their stay. It may cost around $6000 per night for a four bedroom beach villa in Antara. 8. Laucala Island, FijiLaucala, part of the Northern Lau Islands in Fiji, is a 10 km2 paradise east of Taveuni. Home to the exclusive Laucala Resort, it boasts stunning landscapes across its 5 km length and 3 km width. With its private ownership and luxury amenities, it's a haven for travelers. The daily rate for the 1-bedroom residence at Laucala is $6,180. Additionally, each guest enjoys a 90-minute spa experience upon arrival. 7. Song Saa Private Island, CambodiaSong Saa Private Island is nestled off the Cambodian coast. Its allure extends beyond pristine beaches and lavish villas, as it focuses largely on marine conservation and sustainability. The resort, comprising Koh Ouen and Koh Bong, intimately linked like sweethearts, reflects the passion of its founders, Rory and Melita Hunter. Stylish villas seamlessly integrate with lush surroundings, inviting moments of serenity for yoga or quiet contemplation. A two room over water villa with private pool can cost around $7000 per night. 6. Cayo Espanto, BelizeCayo Espanto, situated off Belize's coast in the Caribbean Sea, is among the 450 islands of the Belize Barrier Reef. Originally nameless, it was part of the Pinkerton Islands until 1997, when US-American estate agent Jeff Gram purchased it. As part of the Belize District, it is privately owned, offering exclusivity to visitors. With its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, the island provides a luxurious retreat for those seeking seclusion and natural beauty. A full island rental costs around $17,000 a night.Click here to see the The World’s 5 Most Expensive Private Islands to Visit.Suggested Articles:Top 20 Most Beautiful Island Countries in the World25 Best US Cities for Solo Female Travelers15 Richest Hotel Owners in the WorldDisclosure: None. The World’s 16 Most Expensive Private Islands to Visit is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

The World’s 16 Most Expensive Private Islands to Visit

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/world-16-most-expensive-private-155326951.html

d31917f8-50db-3269-a490-7ea08a299a18

HLT

It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors.While you may have an investing style you rely on, finding great stocks is made easier with the Zacks Style Scores. These are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on value, growth, and/or momentum characteristics.Why This 1 Growth Stock Should Be On Your WatchlistGrowth investors build their portfolios around companies that are financially strong and have a bright future, and the Growth Style Score helps take projected and historical earnings, sales, and cash flow into account to uncover stocks that will see long-term, sustainable growth.Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (HLT)Founded in 1919 and headquartered in McLean, VA, Hilton Worldwide Holdings is a hospitality company that owns, leases, manages, develops, and franchises hotels and resorts. As of Dec 31, 2023, Hilton's development pipeline comprised nearly 3,274 hotels, with almost 462,400 rooms across 118 countries and territories — including 30 countries and territories where it currently has no running hotels. Moreover, 259,800 rooms in the development pipeline were located outside the United States and 216,600 rooms were under construction.HLT sits at a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), holds a Growth Style Score of B, and has a VGM Score of B. Earnings and sales are forecasted to increase 13.7% and 9.3% year-over-year, respectively.Five analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.08 to $7.06 per share for 2024. HLT boasts an average earnings surprise of 5.1%.On a historic basis, Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. has generated cash flow growth of 8.6%, and is expected to report cash flow expansion of 17.2% this year.HLT should be on investors' short lists because of its impressive growth fundamentals, a good Zacks Rank, and strong Growth and VGM Style Scores.Story continuesWant the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (HLT) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Are You a Growth Investor? This 1 Stock Could Be the Perfect Pick

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/growth-investor-1-stock-could-144512947.html

ce2917a1-7388-3203-95d1-05780447a5f8

HLT

In this article, we will be covering the 20 largest travel companies in the world. If you want to skip our detailed analysis of the travel and tourism industry, you can go directly to 5 Largest Travel Companies In The World.The travel and tourism sector plays a vital role in global economies. It creates jobs, fosters cultural exchange, and supports local businesses. It promotes understanding between nations while also contributing significantly to GDP growth. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), travel and tourism accounted for 7.6% of global GDP in 2022 while also creating 22 million new jobs around the world.An Analysis of the Global Travel and Tourism IndustryThe travel and tourism sector plays a crucial role in addressing societal and economic challenges. The industry is now thriving after being severely impacted during the peak of the COVID-19 crisis, which led to travel restrictions, cancellations, and a sharp decline in tourism activities. According to a report by Market Research Future, the global travel and tourism market reached a value of $648.03 billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2023 to 2032 and reach a value of more than $1.01 trillion by the end of the forecasted period. The North American region leads the global travel and tourism market, while Europe follows as the second-largest market. The Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit the fastest growth in the industry during the forecasted period.The travel and tourism market is undergoing a digital transformation with online booking platforms, travel agencies, mobile apps, and online travel-related services driving growth by enhancing connectivity and providing convenient and personalized traveler experiences. The trend of cultural and experiential tourism, with travelers seeking authentic, immersive experiences, unique destinations, and local experiences, is also a key factor driving market growth. Moreover, the rise in disposable incomes, especially in emerging markets, is leading to increased tourism. More people have the means to explore domestic and international destinations. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), domestic visitor spending saw an increase of 20.4% in 2022. On the other hand, international visitor spending went up by 81.9% in 2022.Story continuesWhat are Some of the Biggest Companies in the Travel and Tourism Industry Up To?Prominent companies in the travel and tourism industry are actively pursuing various strategies to expand their global presence and increase their profitability. Some of the most notable names are Marriott International Inc. (NYSE:MAR), Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HLT), and Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG).Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) is one of the world’s largest providers of online travel and related services. It provides online travel services in more than 220 countries through its brands which include Booking.com, Priceline, Agoda, KAYAK, and OpenTable. Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) is also one of the best travel stocks to buy. On February 22, Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) reported strong earnings for the fiscal fourth quarter of 2023. The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $32, surpassing EPS estimates by $1.95. The company’s revenue for the quarter grew by 18.15% year-over-year and amounted to $4.78 billion, ahead of market consensus by $73.37 million. Here are some comments from Booking Holdings Inc.’s (NASDAQ:BKNG) Q4 2023 earnings call:“As we look to the year ahead, we see strong growth on the books for travel that’s scheduled to take place in 2024, which gives early indications of potentially another record summer travel season. As we’ve noted previously, a high percentage of these bookings are capable and what is on the books today for the summer period represents a small percentage of the total bookings that we expect to ultimately receive. David will provide further details on fourth quarter results and on our thoughts about the first quarter and full year 2024. Looking back at the full year of 2023, I am proud of our efforts to drive more benefits to our travelers and supply partners while also delivering record-setting industry-leading financial results. We reached a significant milestone last year with our customers’ booking an all-time high of over 1 billion room nights on our platform, which was an increase of 17% versus 2022.”As the demand for travel and tourism continues to grow, companies operating in this space are launching new products, engaging in mergers and acquisitions, increasing investments, and forming contracts and collaborations. Marriott International Inc. (NYSE:MAR) is an American multinational hospitality company. It operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts in more than 130 countries around the world. On March 7, Marriott International Inc. (NYSE:MAR) announced that it has entered into an agreement with Victoria Park Hotels Ltd. to launch The Park Lane Hong Kong, Autograph Collection. This new addition is set to become part of Autograph Collection Hotels by early 2025. Autograph Collection Hotels’ portfolio includes more than 300 independent properties in some of the most desirable locations around the world. Situated within a 28-story mixed-use complex featuring retail spaces on the lower floors, the new hotel is projected to have 820 guest rooms, an executive lounge, 3 unique dining venues, extensive event spaces spanning over 1,700 square meters, and various recreational facilities. Some of the guest rooms will boast stunning views of Victoria Harbour, while others will overlook the city or Victoria Park in Hong Kong.On February 7, Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HLT) announced an exclusive strategic partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) that will introduce guests of Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HLT) to a wide range of hotels in some of the most popular destinations around the world. This collaboration will significantly enhance Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc.’s (NYSE:HLT) luxury offerings as unique SLH properties become part of the esteemed Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, and LXR Hotels & Resorts brands.Now that we have discussed what’s going on in the global travel and tourism industry, let’s take a look at the 20 largest travel companies in the world.20 Largest Travel Companies In The WorldA line of travellers queuing for a commercial flight, emphasizing the airport management operations.MethodologyIn this article, we have listed the 20 largest travel companies in the world. To find the top travel companies in the world, we sifted through various sources including industry reports, our own rankings in addition to rankings available on various websites, and consulted stock screeners from Yahoo Finance and Finviz. For companies that are publicly traded, we decided to rank them according to their market capitalization as of March 9. We used fiscal year revenues to rank the companies that are not publicly traded. For foreign companies, we converted the market caps and revenues to US dollars according to their respective exchange rates, as of March 9. Finally, we narrowed down our selection to rank the 20 largest travel companies in the world based on their market capitalization and revenues, which are listed below in ascending order.20 Largest Travel Companies In The World20. Host Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE:HST)Market Capitalization: $14.9 BillionHost Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE:HST) is a major American lodging real estate investment trust (REIT) that invests in hotels. It owns a diverse portfolio of luxury and upper-upscale hotels. Host Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE:HST) has a market capitalization of $14.9 billion as of March 9, 2024.19. Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H)Market Capitalization: $16.12 BillionHyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) is an American multinational hospitality company. As one of the world’s top hospitality companies, it manages and franchises luxury and business hotels, resorts, and vacation properties in more than 70 countries across 6 continents. As of March 9, 2024, Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) has a market capitalization of $16.12 billion.18. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG)Market Capitalization: $17.4 BillionInterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) is a British multinational hospitality company. With more than 6,000 hotels in over 100 countries, it is one of the world’s leading hotel companies. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) has a market capitalization of $17.4 billion as of March 9, 2024. It ranks 18th on our list of the 20 biggest travel companies in the world.17. Expedia Group Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE)Market Capitalization: $18.5 BillionExpedia Group Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE) is an American travel technology company. As one of the top travel agencies in the world, it owns and operates various brands including Expedia, Hotels.com, CarRentals.com, Vrbo, Travelocity, Trivago, Orbitz, Ebookers, CheapTickets, and Expedia Cruises. As of March 9, 2024, Expedia Group Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE) has a market capitalization of $18.5 billion.16. Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV)Market Capitalization: $20.44 BillionSouthwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV) is an American airline company. It offers low-cost air travel service with frequent flights of mostly short routes. As one of the biggest travel companies in the world, Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV) has a market capitalization of $20.44 billion as of March 9, 2024.15. Qatar Airways GroupRevenue: $21 BillionQatar Airways Group is the flag carrier of Qatar. Owned by the Government of Qatar, it is one of the world’s top airlines and it currently flies to over 170 international destinations. Qatar Airways Group generated an annual revenue of $21 billion in the year 2022-2023. It ranks among the top 15 on our list of the 20 largest travel companies in the world.14. Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)Market Capitalization: $21.38 BillionCarnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) is a British-American cruise operator. As one of the world's largest leisure travel companies, it owns some of the most well-known cruise line brands in North America, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Australia. Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) has a market capitalization of $21.38 billion as of March 9, 2024.13. Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited (SEHK:0027)Market Capitalization: $21.83 BillionGalaxy Entertainment Group Limited (SEHK:0027) is one of Asia’s top developers and operators of integrated entertainment and resort facilities. It owns and operates a broad portfolio of integrated resort, retail, dining, hotel, and gaming facilities in Macau. As one of the top travel companies in the world, Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited (SEHK:0027) has a market capitalization of $21.83 billion as of March 9, 2024.12. Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:DAL)Market Capitalization: $27.17 BillionDelta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:DAL) is one of America’s major airlines. It is also one of the world’s largest airlines by number of passengers carried. As one of the top travel companies in the world, Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:DAL) has a market capitalization of $27.17 billion as of March 9, 2024.11. Amadeus IT Group S.A. (BME:AMS)Market Capitalization: $27.31 BillionAmadeus IT Group S.A. (BME:AMS) is a Spanish multinational technology company that develops technology and software for airlines, travel agencies, hotels, payment providers, and other travel-related businesses to enhance their operations and customer experiences. With a presence in more than 190 countries, the company provides software solutions for the global travel and tourism industry. As of March 9, 2024, Amadeus IT Group S.A. (BME:AMS) has a market capitalization of $27.31 billion.10. Trip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:TCOM)Market Capitalization: $28.27 BillionTrip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:TCOM) is a multinational travel service company that ranks among the top 10 on our list of the largest travel companies in the world. It owns and operates several travel agencies and travel fare aggregators including Ctrip, Qunar, Trip.com and Skyscanner. As of March 9, 2024, Trip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:TCOM) has a market capitalization of $28.27 billion.9. Ryanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ:RYAAY)Market Capitalization: $32.3 BillionRyanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ:RYAAY) is an Irish airline company. As one of Europe's largest airline groups, it is the parent company of Ryanair, Ryanair UK, Buzz, Lauda, and Malta Air. With a market capitalization of $32.3 billion as of March 9, 2024, Ryanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ:RYAAY) ranks 9th on our list of the 20 largest travel companies in the world.8. Emirates GroupRevenue: $32.6 BillionEmirates Group is Dubai’s state-owned international aviation holding company. It owns Dubai National Air Travel Agency (dnata), an airport and ground services company, and Emirates Airline, one of the largest airlines in the Middle East. Emirates Group generated an annual revenue of $32.6 billion in the year 2022-2023.7. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL)Market Capitalization: $32.71 BillionRoyal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL) is a global cruise holding company that owns and operates cruise brands including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. As one of the world’s largest cruise line operators, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL) has a global fleet of 65 ships traveling to around 1,000 destinations around the world. The company has a market capitalization of $32.71 billion as of March 9, 2024.6. Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS)Market Capitalization: $38.81 BillionLas Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) is an American casino and resort company that owns and operates integrated resorts in Macao and Singapore. As a driver of valuable leisure and business tourism, it is one of the world’s largest hotel and casino companies. With a market capitalization of $38.81 billion as of March 9, 2024, Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) ranks 6th on our list of the 20 largest travel companies in the world.Click to continue reading and see 5 Largest Travel Companies In The World.Suggested Articles:40 Most Polluted Cities in the World in 202420 Countries with the Strongest Paramilitary Forces in the World15 Sunniest Cities in EuropeDisclosure: None. 20 Largest Travel Companies In The World is published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

20 Largest Travel Companies In The World

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/20-largest-travel-companies-world-180018353.html

f7019cdb-8fb0-3878-92c1-5d248c647fc3

HLT

In this article, we are going to discuss the 15 countries with the most beautiful nature in Europe. You can skip our detailed analysis of the global tourism industry, the largest travel company in the world, and the need for sustainable tourism, and go directly to the 5 Countries With the Most Beautiful Nature in Europe.There's simply no better place to take a break and let go of everyday stress than out in nature. Being surrounded by this planet’s raw, enchanting beauty can help us relax and rejuvenate our soul, reminding us to pay attention and be in the moment. The sights, sounds, and smells of Mother Earth are sometimes far too alluring for us biophiles, and so when the vast outdoors call, we make sure to answer. The Global Tourism Industry:Tourism has evolved into a massive industry with time, encompassing several other sectors, such as hospitality, transport, entertainment etc. In 1950, at the dawn of the jet age, just 25 million people took foreign trips, and by 2019, that number had reached a mammoth 1.5 billion. As we mentioned in our article – 15 Countries with the Most Beautiful Culture in the World – the global Travel & Tourism (T&T) industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% between 2021 and 2026, to be worth an estimated $8.9 trillion by the end of the forecast period. The World Tourism and Travel Council has reported that the T&T sector contributed 7.6% to the global GDP in 2022, an increase of 22% from 2021 and only 23% below the pre-pandemic 2019 levels.Largest Travel Company in the World: With a market cap of over $119 billion as of the writing of this piece, Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) holds the title of being the largest travel company in the world. Operating in over 220 countries and 40 different languages, there are more than 28 million global listings available between hotels, homes, and apartments under the Booking travel sites. The Connecticut-based travel technology company also strongly felt the shocks of the pandemic when its revenue fell by almost 55%, from $15.06 billion in 2019, to $6.8 billion in 2020. However, Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) bounced back strongly and boasted a revenue of $17.09 billion in 2022 after the revival of international tourism, even higher than its pre-pandemic levels. The platform has also recently started conversational trip planning with ChatGPT. Story continuesBooking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) is ranked among the 13 Best Major Stocks to Buy Right Now.The Need for Sustainable Tourism: Sustainable tourism can be defined as a kind of tourism that has more positive than negative impacts, especially relating to the environment, the economy, and communities. The popularity of beaches/forests/mountains etc as ideal getaways leads to overflowing masses of tourists every year, putting these unique yet fragile environments at risk.Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HLT) is among the most recognizable names in the hospitality industry. The Virginia-based company manages and franchises a broad portfolio of the best beach resorts and eco-hotels, steps away from some of the most picturesque natural environments in the world. Hilton’s global Travel with Purpose strategy aims to reduce the operational environmental footprint of the group’s hotels worldwide, enabling guests to travel more sustainably and paving the way towards a net-zero future for the hospitality industry. From preserving mangroves in Curaçao to restoring the United Kingdom’s woodland areas through exceptional conservation, ecotourism is already the way of the future for Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HLT). Hilton Worldwide plans to open 24 new hotels globally in 2024, including company debuts in Asia-Pacific and Europe, and brand debuts in the United States, the company announced in November 2023. Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HLT) ranks among the Most Valuable Hotel Companies in the World. WIth that said, here are the European Countries with the Best Nature. 15 Countries With the Most Beautiful Nature in Europe186PIX/Shutterstock.comMethodology:To collect data for this article, we have referred to sources such as Travel + Leisure, Forbes, Condé Nast Traveler, Reddit etc., looking for the European Countries with the Most Beautiful Nature. To make sure we give you the best of the best, we only shortlisted countries that appeared multiple times in the aforementioned sources, assigned them a score based on their number of appearances, and ranked them accordingly. When two or more countries had the same score, we ranked them by the number of foreign tourists they received in 2022 instead. By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.15. MontenegroInsider Monkey Score: 7This small Balkan country is a must-see destination to visit an incredible combination of wild nature, rich culture, and magnificent beaches. With the Bay of Kotor on one side and mountains on the other, the tiny picturesque town of Kotor is truly a sight to behold. Brimming with breathtaking mountain sceneries, gleaming lakes, and magical towns, Montenegro proves that good things do indeed come in small packages.14. IrelandInsider Monkey Score: 8A land of unparalleled natural beauty, it is impossible to visit Ireland and not helplessly and hopelessly fall in love with it. A lush green land of rolling hills, dramatic coastline, windswept isles, and incredible, natural scenery, Ireland is a paradise for a lover of the outdoors.Home to more than 30,000 castles and ruins, most dating from the 12th to 16th centuries, The Emerald Isle is also included among the Countries with the Most Beautiful Castles in the World. 13. SloveniaInsider Monkey Score: 9The small yet mighty country of Slovenia is a land of plenty, offering travelers the perfect combination of natural wonders and cultural attractions. This Scenic European Country really does have an almost absurd number of astonishingly beautiful places to visit; from the towering peaks of the Julian Alps in the north to the immense cave systems in the south, Slovenia is a fairy tale come to life.12. SwedenInsider Monkey Score: 9Home to 29 national parks and over 100,000 lakes, this Scandinavian beauty makes for a fine escape to anyone looking for a natural wonderland. The sense of well-being that one feels, the peace and the calm, the exquisite nature, and the quiet, unassuming people, undoubtedly make Sweden one of the Most Beautiful Countries in Europe. 11. PortugalInsider Monkey Score: 11Portugal is raw, real, and natural. Its awe-inspiring mix of terrains, panoramic vistas, and Mediterranean climate can accommodate a myriad of activities and excursions. Famed novelist and Nobel laureate José Saramago even went so far as to declare the hypnotic terraces of the country’s northern Douro Valley, with their winding waterways and green landscapes, as the eighth wonder of the world. Tourism is a key driver of the Portuguese economy, accounting for almost 15% of the national GDP before the pandemic.10. ScotlandInsider Monkey Score: 13Scotland is an amazing destination that tourists always find enthralling. You can find idyllic sites all over the country, from the southeast coast of East Lothian to the far reaches of the Outer Hebrides. Tourism is one of the seven growth industries in Scotland, contributing more than $4.9 billion to the economy each year. The country received around 3.2 million foreign visitors in the year 2022. 9. CroatiaInsider Monkey Score: 13Croatia is among the best ecologically preserved countries in Europe; offering around 1,100 miles of coastline along the Adriatic, over 1,200 islands, 26 rivers, 7 protected marine areas, and 8 national parks. Simply put, Croatia is undoubtedly one of the Most Magical Places in the World. 8. GreeceInsider Monkey Score: 14The Greek islands have long been a sun worshiper’s paradise. Besides the heavenly sands and turquoise waters, the country offers a wealth of mountains, forests, gorges, rivers, lakes, caves, volcanoes, and lagoons, The Greek tourism sector stands to gain from the total $54 billion in funding from the country’s national recovery and resilience plan. Investments in tourism with particular focus on health and wellness as well as spa tourism, gastronomy and diving tourism, port upgrades, beach accessibility, and special training and upskilling programs for tourism sector employees are areas expected to receive funding under the national recovery plan.Greece is included among the Top 10 Beautiful Countries in Europe. 7. AustriaInsider Monkey Score: 15Austria certainly has no shortage of stunning natural attractions, providing excellent scenery and a serene environment where you and your family can relax. With its majestic Alpine ranges and crystal clear lakes, you’re never far away from beautiful scenery in Austria. 6. SwitzerlandInsider Monkey Score: 16Switzerland is truly the epitome of idyllic. With the statuesque Swiss Alps covering more than 60% of the country, Switzerland seduces visitors all year round with some of the best and most astonishing natural scenery not only in Europe, but the whole world. Boasting glacial waterfalls, hiking trails, ski slopes, dramatic cliffs and quaint villages, Lauterbrunnen is easily ranked among the Most Beautiful Places in Europe.Click to continue reading and see the 5 Countries With the Most Beautiful Nature in Europe.Suggested Articles:25 Countries with the Best BeachesTop 20 Most Beautiful Island Countries in the World30 Must-See UNESCO World Heritage SitesDisclosure: None. 15 Countries With the Most Beautiful Nature in Europe is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

15 Countries With the Most Beautiful Nature in Europe

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/15-countries-most-beautiful-nature-192216490.html

3589d075-1793-36e9-9078-e690315c12ad

HOLX

Hologic (HOLX) has been one of the most searched-for stocks on Zacks.com lately. So, you might want to look at some of the facts that could shape the stock's performance in the near term.Over the past month, shares of this medical device maker have returned -0.2%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +3% change. During this period, the Zacks Medical - Instruments industry, which Hologic falls in, has gained 1.9%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?Although media reports or rumors about a significant change in a company's business prospects usually cause its stock to trend and lead to an immediate price change, there are always certain fundamental factors that ultimately drive the buy-and-hold decision.Earnings Estimate RevisionsRather than focusing on anything else, we at Zacks prioritize evaluating the change in a company's earnings projection. This is because we believe the fair value for its stock is determined by the present value of its future stream of earnings.We essentially look at how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to reflect the impact of the latest business trends. And if earnings estimates go up for a company, the fair value for its stock goes up. A higher fair value than the current market price drives investors' interest in buying the stock, leading to its price moving higher. This is why empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.For the current quarter, Hologic is expected to post earnings of $0.98 per share, indicating a change of -7.6% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed +1.1% over the last 30 days.The consensus earnings estimate of $4.01 for the current fiscal year indicates a year-over-year change of +1.3%. This estimate has changed +0.8% over the last 30 days.For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $4.37 indicates a change of +8.9% from what Hologic is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed +1%.Story continuesHaving a strong externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, offers a more conclusive picture of a stock's price direction in the near term, since it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. Due to the size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, Hologic is rated Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:12 Month EPSProjected Revenue GrowthWhile earnings growth is arguably the most superior indicator of a company's financial health, nothing happens as such if a business isn't able to grow its revenues. After all, it's nearly impossible for a company to increase its earnings for an extended period without increasing its revenues. So, it's important to know a company's potential revenue growth.For Hologic, the consensus sales estimate for the current quarter of $1 billion indicates a year-over-year change of -2.5%. For the current and next fiscal years, $4.01 billion and $4.22 billion estimates indicate -0.4% and +5% changes, respectively.Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryHologic reported revenues of $1.01 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -5.7%. EPS of $0.98 for the same period compares with $1.07 a year ago.Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $983.25 million, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +3.04%. The EPS surprise was +3.16%.The company beat consensus EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters. The company topped consensus revenue estimates each time over this period.ValuationNo investment decision can be efficient without considering a stock's valuation. Whether a stock's current price rightly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects is an essential determinant of its future price performance.While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S) and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.As part of the Zacks Style Scores system, the Zacks Value Style Score (which evaluates both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics) organizes stocks into five groups ranging from A to F (A is better than B; B is better than C; and so on), making it helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.Hologic is graded B on this front, indicating that it is trading at a discount to its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.ConclusionThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about Hologic. However, its Zacks Rank #2 does suggest that it may outperform the broader market in the near term.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHologic, Inc. (HOLX) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Hologic, Inc. (HOLX) is Attracting Investor Attention: Here is What You Should Know

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hologic-inc-holx-attracting-investor-140022175.html

c9d09dd9-a727-3ff5-ab2c-04f1829dc749

HOLX

Key InsightsThe projected fair value for Hologic is US$93.97 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to EquityCurrent share price of US$75.82 suggests Hologic is potentially trading close to its fair value The US$82.67 analyst price target for HOLX is 12% less than our estimate of fair valueHow far off is Hologic, Inc. (NASDAQ:HOLX) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example!Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you. Check out our latest analysis for Hologic Is Hologic Fairly Valued?We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast2024202520262027202820292030203120322033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$948.9mUS$1.05bUS$1.10bUS$1.14bUS$1.14bUS$1.14bUS$1.16bUS$1.17bUS$1.19bUS$1.21bGrowth Rate Estimate SourceAnalyst x4Analyst x4Analyst x3Analyst x2Analyst x1Est @ 0.40%Est @ 0.96%Est @ 1.36%Est @ 1.64%Est @ 1.84% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 6.8% US$888US$916US$904US$880US$820US$770US$728US$691US$658US$627("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$7.9bStory continuesAfter calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.3%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 6.8%.Terminal Value (TV)= FCF2033 × (1 + g) ÷ (r – g) = US$1.2b× (1 + 2.3%) ÷ (6.8%– 2.3%) = US$27bPresent Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$27b÷ ( 1 + 6.8%)10= US$14bThe total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is US$22b. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of US$75.8, the company appears about fair value at a 19% discount to where the stock price trades currently. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent.dcfThe AssumptionsWe would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Hologic as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.984. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.SWOT Analysis for HologicStrengthDebt is not viewed as a risk.WeaknessEarnings declined over the past year.OpportunityAnnual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years.Current share price is below our estimate of fair value.ThreatAnnual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the American market.Looking Ahead:Whilst important, the DCF calculation shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For Hologic, we've put together three important aspects you should further research:Risks: For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs for Hologic that you should be aware of before investing here.Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for HOLX's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors.Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every American stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

Calculating The Fair Value Of Hologic, Inc. (NASDAQ:HOLX)

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/calculating-fair-value-hologic-inc-165906626.html

0a080dce-7301-385d-9080-44df53ca69a7

HOLX

Hologic, Inc. HOLX and its subsidiary, Biotheranostics, recently presented new research findings. The results suggest that in the absence of Breast Cancer Index (BCI) genetic testing, a significant proportion of early-stage hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer survivors may have received excessive or insufficient treatment. The study was published in the March issue of the JNCCN — Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.Previous research has shown that most women with early-stage HR+ breast cancer do not benefit from extended anti-estrogen therapy, although some may experience a lower risk of recurrence.  When it comes to predicting which women may benefit from continuing anti-estrogen therapy after five years, the BCI test is the only genomic test that is approved by various national oncology guidelines. This helps optimize the length of treatment.Study DetailsParticipants in the BCI Registry Study include patients and doctors in this investigation. More than 3,000 individuals were enrolled in the study by the time it ended and they will be monitored for 10 years after their diagnosis.The study finding implies that BCI has a crucial role in identifying women whose anti-estrogen therapy may be stopped after the first five years to prevent any negative consequences and toxicities related to prolonged treatment.The finding emphasizes another crucial application of BCI, which is to identify women who would benefit from longer treatment to help prevent a potentially fatal metastatic recurrence. In the past, lengthier therapy might not have been advised based only on clinical and pathologic risk factors.Study BenefitsThe study findings support the usefulness of the Breast Cancer Index test in clinical settings even further. The Breast Cancer Index is a handy tool that gives physicians more confidence in their treatment decisions for patients with breast cancer. It helps prevent over- and undertreatment for extended anti-estrogen therapy.Story continuesThe recently presented findings show that BCI can boost clinicians' assurance in their treatment recommendations when integrated into standard clinical care. Of the providers surveyed, 39% stated that BCI testing augmented their confidence in their recommendation for prolonged anti-estrogen therapy.Zacks Investment ResearchImage Source: Zacks Investment ResearchFurthermore, 41% of patients felt more at ease with their treatment choices after undergoing BCI testing and 45% of patients changed their minds about continuing anti-estrogen therapy for an additional five years.Industry ProspectsPer a report by Mordor Intelligence, the Global Breast Cancer Screening test market size is estimated at $2.95 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $4.45 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 8.55%. The market is anticipated to witness growth due to the rising incidence of breast cancer, which is recognized as one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide.Progress Within Breast Health BusinessHologic has been making impressive progress in its Breast Health arm lately, leveraging its strategic expansion efforts to diversify business across the patient continuum of care.In the first quarter of fiscal 2024, the Breast Health arm registered 12.2% growth. Demand for the company’s gantries remains robust, and the interventional business also registered strong growth in the reported quarter. In the gantry business, Hologic continues to benefit from a strong cadence of orders.Leveraging strong performance in the fiscal first quarter, Hologic believes its Breast Health franchise remains well positioned to deliver on its financial targets in the fiscal 2024.Price PerformanceIn the past six months, HOLX’s shares have gained 1.1% compared with the industry’s rise of 11.7%.Zacks Rank and Key PicksHologic currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).Some better-ranked stocks from the broader medical space are Stryker Corporation SYK, Cencora, Inc. COR and Cardinal Health CAH.Stryker, carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), reported a fourth-quarter 2023 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $3.46, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 5.8%. Revenues of $5.8 billion outpaced the consensus estimate by 3.8%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.Stryker has an estimated earnings growth rate of 11.5% for 2025 compared with the S&P 500’s 9.9%. The company’s earnings surpassed estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average being 5.1%.Cencora, carrying a Zacks Rank #2, reported a first-quarter fiscal 2024 adjusted EPS of $3.28, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 14.7%. Revenues of $72.3 billion outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 5.1%.COR has an earnings yield of 5.75% compared with the industry’s 1.85%. The company’s earnings surpassed estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average being 6.7%.Cardinal Health, carrying a Zacks Rank #1, reported second-quarter fiscal 2024 adjusted earnings of $1.82, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 16.7%. Revenues of $57.45 billion improved 11.6% on a year-over-year basis and also topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.1%.CAH has a long-term estimated earnings growth rate of 15.3% compared with the industry’s 11.8% growth. The company’s earnings surpassed estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 15.6%.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportStryker Corporation (SYK) : Free Stock Analysis ReportCardinal Health, Inc. (CAH) : Free Stock Analysis ReportHologic, Inc. (HOLX) : Free Stock Analysis ReportCencora, Inc. (COR) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Hologic's (HOLX) BCI Genomic Test Study Outcome Favorable

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hologics-holx-bci-genomic-test-161500006.html

492e1759-b008-3d6a-a65b-cd2290c2cf13

HOLX

A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Waters (WAT). Shares have added about 7.9% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.Will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Waters due for a pullback? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at its most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important drivers.Waters' Q4 Earnings & Sales Beat Estimates, Fall Y/YWaters reported fourth-quarter 2023 non-GAAP earnings of $3.62 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.7%. However, the bottom line declined 5.7% on a year-over-year basis.Net sales of $819.5 million topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $813.7 million. The figure fell 4.5% on a reported basis and 8% at constant currency from the year-ago quarter’s readings.Softness in the pharmaceutical, industrial, government and academic markets was a major concern. Also, weakening momentum in Asia remained a headwind.Sluggishness in the Waters and TA segments was a negative. Nevertheless, growing momentum across the Americas and Europe was a positive.Top Line in DetailWaters’ net sales figure can be categorized in four ways:By Operating Segment: WAT operates under two organized segments, namely Waters and TA.The Waters segment (87% of net sales) generated sales worth $716.93 million, down 5% year over year. Sales in the TA segment were $102.54 million (13%), reflecting a 1% year-over-year decline.By Products & Services: The division comprises three segments, namely Instruments, Services and Chemistry.Instruments sales (47%) were $397.2 million, declining 14% on a year-over-year basis.Services registered sales (35%) worth $278.9 million, climbing 9% year over year.Chemistry sales (18%) totaled $143.4 million, growing 3% year over year.Moreover, the Services and Chemistry segments jointly generated recurring revenues of $422.3 million, up 7% year over year.By Markets: Waters serves three end markets, such as Pharmaceutical, Industrial, and Governmental & Academic.The Pharmaceutical market (56%) generated sales of $463.7 million, which decreased 6% on a year-over-year basis.The Industrial market’s (33%) sales were $260.25 million, down 3% year over year.Governmental & Academic market (11%) generated $95.53 million of total sales. The figure plunged 2% year over year.By Geography: Waters’ operating regions include Asia, the Americas and Europe.Asia (33%) generated $261.9 million in sales, down 18% on a year-over-year basis.Sales in the Americas (36%) generated $303.7 million, growing 4% year over year. The United States registered a 12% year-over-year improvement in sales.Europe (31%) generated $253.8 million in sales, up 3% year over year.Story continuesOperating DetailsIn the fourth quarter, non-GAAP selling and administrative expenses were $172.95 million, down 0.03% year over year. As a percentage of net sales, the figure expanded 100 basis points (bps) on a year-over-year basis.Research and development spending of $44.4 million decreased 8.1% year over year. As a percentage of net sales, the figure contracted 20 bps year over year.Adjusted operating margin was 34.9%, which expanded 120 bps year over year.Balance Sheet & Cash FlowAs of Dec 31, 2023, cash, cash equivalents and investments were $395.97 million, up from $337.3 million as of Sep 30, 2023.Waters generated cash from operations of $230.12 million in the reported quarter, up from $157.8 million in the prior quarter.WAT recorded a free cash flow of $191.65 million in the fourth quarter.GuidanceFor first-quarter 2024, Waters expects non-GAAP earnings of $2.05-$2.15 per share.Management anticipates organic sales to decline 11-9% on a constant-currency basis. WAT projects sales to decline by 1% due to unfavorable foreign exchange fluctuations. The Wyatt transaction is estimated to increase sales by 3.5%.On a reported basis, total sales are predicted to decline 8.5-6.5%.For 2024, Waters anticipates non-GAAP earnings of $11.75-$12.05 per share. This includes a foreign exchange headwind of 1%.Waters projects 2024 organic sales growth of -0.5-1.5% on a constant-currency basis. The Wyatt transaction is expected to increase sales by 1.3%.On a reported basis, total sales are suggested to grow 0-2%.How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?It turns out, estimates review have trended downward during the past month.The consensus estimate has shifted -15.97% due to these changes.VGM ScoresCurrently, Waters has a subpar Growth Score of D, a grade with the same score on the momentum front. Charting a somewhat similar path, the stock was allocated a grade of C on the value side, putting it in the middle 20% for this investment strategy.Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of F. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions indicates a downward shift. Notably, Waters has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.Performance of an Industry PlayerWaters belongs to the Zacks Medical - Instruments industry. Another stock from the same industry, Hologic (HOLX), has gained 1.8% over the past month. More than a month has passed since the company reported results for the quarter ended December 2023.Hologic reported revenues of $1.01 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -5.7%. EPS of $0.98 for the same period compares with $1.07 a year ago.Hologic is expected to post earnings of $0.98 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -7.6%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate remained unchanged.The overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions translate into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for Hologic. Also, the stock has a VGM Score of D.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportWaters Corporation (WAT) : Free Stock Analysis ReportHologic, Inc. (HOLX) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Why Is Waters (WAT) Up 7.9% Since Last Earnings Report?

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-waters-wat-7-9-163101834.html

20138a66-ee60-3305-a1fa-8d0ee7b4c03e

HON

It's no secret that interest and, more importantly, investment in artificial intelligence (AI) are booming. That creates growth opportunities for companies and enhances value for shareholders in companies with exposure. One such company is diversified industrial Honeywell International (NASDAQ: HON). It's not just a user of AI to add value to its solutions; it also has a significant stake in a quantum computing business that management plans to monetize.AI and high-performance computingAI's benefits include its ability to automate tasks and improve outcomes through better predictive capability. Vast amounts of data can be processed and analyzed to improve customer (or, in the case of the medical field, patient) outcomes. However, to do this properly, you need high-performance computing.That's why semiconductor foundry Taiwan Semiconductor is seeing strong growth in its high-performance computing chip and part of why its management expects more than 20% revenue growth this year. It's also why Honeywell's quantum computing business, Quantinuum, attracts so much interest.Quantum computing enables AI to reach its full potential. It is a crucial reason Honeywell combined its Honeywell Quantum Solutions (HQS) business with Cambridge Quantum Computing (CGQS) to create Quantinuum in 2021. Honeywell has invested nearly $300 million in Quantinuum since the deal was struck and owns about 54% of the company.The $5 billion valuation estimate comes from a successful equity raise in January, "securing $300 million at a pre-money valuation of $5 billion," according to Honeywell CEO Vimal Kapur on a recent earnings call. Moreover, Kapur noted that "we are committed to demonstrating a path to monetization of our stake within the next 18 months."Image source: Getty Images.What it means to Honeywell shareholdersSome simple math put Honeywell at a stake worth $2.7 billion. The next question is whether that's enough to move the needle for a company with a market cap of $128.6 billion. The answer is both "no" and "yes."Story continuesOn the one hand, it's a "no" in that it only represents 2% of Honeywell's market cap, and it's hard to argue that monetizing Quantinuum will make a massive difference to the investment proposition for the stock. In other words, don't buy Honeywell just because of its AI exposure. On the other hand, it's a "yes" because it's symbolic of how the company can release value for shareholders in the future.How Honeywell can generate value for investorsKapur recently reiterated the company's strategic framework and long-term targets. The aim is to generate 4%-7% annual organic sales growth coupled with 40 basis points to 60 basis points of margin expansion (where 100 basis points equals 1%), resulting in earnings per share (EPS) growth of 6%-10%.The question is whether investors are prepared to pay 19.8 times the estimated 2024 earnings for a company growing at that rate. If its long-term earnings growth rate is closer to 6%, the answer is probably negative, but it's a different story if Honeywell's growth rate is in double digits or above.Image source: Getty Images.That said, the company does have routes to get there. For example, Kapur believes "EPS accretion from both share buyback and consistent" mergers and acquisitions will enable Honeywell to get to "double-digit adjusted EPS growth at the midpoint on a through-cycle basis."The second route comes from increasing the organic sales growth rate by 1%-2% through the successful development of its breakthrough initiatives, as outlined in its Investor Day presentation in 2023.Honeywell's breakthrough initiativesThese include its cloud-based software businesses, sustainable technology solutions (green hydrogen technology, carbon capture, renewable fuels), unmanned aerial systems, urban air mobility (avionics and propulsion systems for air taxis and cargo drones), and Quantinuum.Image source: Getty Images.If these sorts of initiatives (created and funded by Honeywell) can add 1%-2% on top of the company's core 4%-7% growth rate and the company's margin expansion plans work out, it's not hard to see how Honeywell could get to double-digit EPS growth.As such, the growing value of Quantinuum and the coming of the AI boom illustrate the value inherent in Honeywell's breakthrough initiatives and why investors might wish to invest in the company.Should you invest $1,000 in Honeywell International right now?Before you buy stock in Honeywell International, consider this:The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Honeywell International wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*.See the 10 stocks*Stock Advisor returns as of February 20, 2024Lee Samaha has positions in Honeywell International. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.The $5 Billion AI Business You've Never Heard Of was originally published by The Motley Fool

Motley Fool

The $5 Billion AI Business You've Never Heard Of

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/5-billion-ai-business-youve-173300104.html

819d7483-4742-301b-8a2d-7f0115e181a1

HON

In today's scorching hot stock market, investors may gloss over the favorable qualities of the defense industry.Defense companies aren't known for their growth. But they benefit from having a reliable buyer in the U.S. government, which provides predictable cash flows that support organic growth, dividend payments, and often, stock repurchases.Here's why RTX (NYSE: RTX), Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), and Honeywell International (NASDAQ: HON) stand out as three defense stocks worth a look.Image source: Getty Images.RTX's mix of revenue streams will attract investorsLee Samaha (RTX): The aerospace and defense industry had a difficult 2023. Defense businesses came under sustained margin pressure as ongoing supply chain issues negatively impacted operations. Meanwhile, the discovery of potential contamination in powder coating used to manufacture turbine discs in RTX's engines used in commercial aerospace (not least the Airbus A320 neo family) will ultimately result in multibillion-dollar hits to earnings and free cash flow (FCF) over the next few years as engines need to be removed and inspected.Still, there's a value case to be made for the stock. Its aerospace end market remains in growth mode. While the powder coating issue is a disappointment, there's only one other competitor engine on the Airbus A320 neo family, namely the LEAP engine of CFM International (a General Electric joint venture), but that already has a multiyear backlog in place.Meanwhile, at some point, the supply chain issues dogging the defense industry will abate, creating the possibility for margin headwinds to turn into tailwinds. In addition, there's no shortage of geopolitical tension right now and pressure on NATO countries to ramp up spending or at least replenish equipment used in conflict theaters.As such, RTX operates in two end markets that are likely to be in growth mode over the near to medium term. RTX and its dividend face challenges, but are worth a look given the two sectors in which the company operates.Story continuesLockheed Martin is a stalwart defense contractor that generates robust free cash flowScott Levine (Lockheed Martin): Lockheed Martin stock currently provides income investors with a 3% forward-yielding dividend. And with its strong backlog and prodigious free-cash-flow generation, Lockheed Martin seems well suited to continue rewarding shareholders with its generous dividend in the coming years.Although lower sales and higher costs related to the company's F-35 fighter jet adversely affected the top and bottom lines last quarter, Lockheed Martin recently celebrated an otherwise strong end to 2023. Driven by the strong performance of its space segment, Lockheed Martin recognized a 2.4% year-over-year increase in sales and a 21% year-over-year increase in net earnings. The growth carried over to the cash-flow statement as well, where Lockheed Martin reported 2023 free cash flow of $6.23 billion, representing a 1.6% increase over 2022.However, for those looking to fortify their portfolios with a leading defense stock like Lockheed Martin, confidence that the future remains bright is equally important. Thanks to the company's robust backlog, this certainly seems to be the case. Lockheed Martin reported a company record $160.6 billion in backlog at the end of 2023 -- an auspicious sign that the company will be able to grow the dividend.Over the past 10 years, Lockheed Martin has averaged a payout ratio of 54%. And that's not the only indication that the company can sustain the dividend.LMT Dividend Per Share (Annual) ChartThe company consistently generates strong free cash flow that it can use to fund the dividend.With geopolitical tensions showing little sign of abating anytime soon, Lockheed Martin's business will remain in high demand, making it a worthy addition to income investors' portfolios.Honeywell has finally found its footingDaniel Foelber (Honeywell): Honeywell isn't a pure-play defense stock in the same way that RTX and Lockheed Martin are. But that could work in investors' favor.Honeywell's largest segment is aerospace, but it makes up just 37.2% of sales. Honeywell's other business units are building technologies, performance materials and technologies, and safety and productivity solutions.Honeywell's greatest strength is that it operates a high-margin, diversified business where no single segment makes up too great of a share of sales or profit.Earlier this month, Honeywell reported overall solid 2023 results. But the real standout was its 2024 guidance for adjusted earnings per share of $9.80 to $10.10, which would be up 7% to 10%. Honeywell's 2024 guidance also calls for organic growth of 4% to 6%, which is in line with the company's long-term target for 4% to 7% organic growth.Free cash flow is forecast to be $5.6 billion to $6 billion in 2024 -- more than enough to fund the company's dividend with cash. For context, Honeywell spent $8.3 billion in 2023 on dividends, stock buybacks, capital expenditures, and mergers and acquisitions. But the dividend payment only cost Honeywell $2.72 billion -- meaning it is expecting this year's FCF to be more than double the dividend obligation.It's been a bumpy ride for Honeywell investors since the onset of the pandemic. As you can see in the following chart, Honeywell has slowly been building up its profits to return to the pre-pandemic high. Sales are down by quite a bit, but Honeywell has made up for that by improving its margins, which has made the business leaner and more efficient overall.HON Revenue (TTM) ChartDespite the good results, Honeywell remains in "prove it" mode. It needs to sustain at least mid-single-digit organic growth and high-single-digit or low-double-digit growth once factoring in strategic mergers and acquisitions and buybacks. It also needs to show meaningful results from monetizing the Industrial Internet of Things and artificial intelligence -- themes that Honeywell has been touting for years with unclear material impacts on the bottom line.The good news is the stock isn't expensive, sporting just a 23.5 price-to-earnings ratio. It also has a dividend yield of 2.2% as of this writing.Honeywell is a good choice for investors who want exposure to the defense industry but with the benefit of a diversified industrial conglomerate.Should you invest $1,000 in RTX right now?Before you buy stock in RTX, consider this:The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and RTX wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*.See the 10 stocks*Stock Advisor returns as of February 20, 2024Daniel Foelber has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Lee Samaha has positions in Honeywell International. Scott Levine has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Lockheed Martin and RTX. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.3 Dividend-Paying Defense Stocks Worth a Look was originally published by The Motley Fool

Motley Fool

3 Dividend-Paying Defense Stocks Worth a Look

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/3-dividend-paying-defense-stocks-174500224.html

31b7bbf6-f119-3576-8482-0ee08e45eac1

HON

Honeywell International Inc. (HON) closed at $202.61 in the latest trading session, marking a +1.05% move from the prior day. The stock exceeded the S&P 500, which registered a gain of 1.03% for the day. Meanwhile, the Dow experienced a rise of 0.34%, and the technology-dominated Nasdaq saw an increase of 1.51%.Shares of the company witnessed a gain of 3.3% over the previous month, trailing the performance of the Conglomerates sector with its gain of 6.3% and outperforming the S&P 500's gain of 3.21%.Analysts and investors alike will be keeping a close eye on the performance of Honeywell International Inc. in its upcoming earnings disclosure. The company's upcoming EPS is projected at $2.18, signifying a 5.31% increase compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Meanwhile, the latest consensus estimate predicts the revenue to be $9.01 billion, indicating a 1.6% increase compared to the same quarter of the previous year.In terms of the entire fiscal year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates predict earnings of $9.96 per share and a revenue of $38.41 billion, indicating changes of +8.73% and +4.78%, respectively, from the former year.Investors should also pay attention to any latest changes in analyst estimates for Honeywell International Inc. These recent revisions tend to reflect the evolving nature of short-term business trends. Hence, positive alterations in estimates signify analyst optimism regarding the company's business and profitability.Our research reveals that these estimate alterations are directly linked with the stock price performance in the near future. We developed the Zacks Rank to capitalize on this phenomenon. Our system takes these estimate changes into account and delivers a clear, actionable rating model.The Zacks Rank system, ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), possesses a remarkable history of outdoing, externally audited, with #1 stocks returning an average annual gain of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has shifted 0.18% downward. At present, Honeywell International Inc. boasts a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).Story continuesValuation is also important, so investors should note that Honeywell International Inc. has a Forward P/E ratio of 20.13 right now. This represents a premium compared to its industry's average Forward P/E of 17.38.Investors should also note that HON has a PEG ratio of 2.36 right now. The PEG ratio is akin to the commonly utilized P/E ratio, but this measure also incorporates the company's anticipated earnings growth rate. By the end of yesterday's trading, the Diversified Operations industry had an average PEG ratio of 2.25.The Diversified Operations industry is part of the Conglomerates sector. This group has a Zacks Industry Rank of 46, putting it in the top 19% of all 250+ industries.The Zacks Industry Rank assesses the vigor of our specific industry groups by computing the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks incorporated in the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.Remember to apply Zacks.com to follow these and more stock-moving metrics during the upcoming trading sessions.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHoneywell International Inc. (HON) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Honeywell International Inc. (HON) Beats Stock Market Upswing: What Investors Need to Know

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/honeywell-international-inc-hon-beats-225013098.html

c7335f49-bdc8-3ae4-a206-e2eaff494192

HON

By Allison LampertMONTREAL (Reuters) - Honeywell said it will ask Canada's top court to hear an engine pricing case involving business jet maker Bombardier, in a dispute that has raised concerns among rival planemakers about revealing confidential terms of business negotiations.It comes after a Quebec judge in December ordered Honeywell to share records containing engine pricing information with an independent auditor, creating a stir within the discrete world of business jet manufacturing, industry sources said.The Quebec Court of Appeal last month refused Honeywell's request to immediately hear the case.Honeywell "intends to pursue relief before the Supreme Court of Canada in the appropriate time," the company said in an emailed statement to Reuters. Canada's Supreme Court selects which cases it hears and it is unclear whether Honeywell will succeed in its efforts.Bombardier, which uses Honeywell engines in its popular Challenger 350 business jets, has alleged the U.S. supplier of was selling propulsion systems to its rivals on more favorable terms, despite guarantees that the Canadian planemaker would get the best price, according to court filings.Engine pricing, a key cost in business jet production, often comes with steep discounts and is guarded closely between suppliers and planemakers to avoid giving a competitive advantage to rivals.The court order is raising fears that an audit could reveal sensitive information about rivals like Textron Inc and General Dynamics Corp's Gulfstream Aerospace, according to filings and sources.It is the latest dispute over such concerns in aerospace.A recent court dispute between Airbus and Qatar Airways triggered a three-way battle with Boeing over who could see one of the U.S. planemaker’s contracts with the airline.Such court cases, which were relatively rare before the pandemic, have shone a spotlight on the inner workings of the $150 billion global jet industry.Story continuesIn its February 15 decision, the Quebec Court of Appeal also refused Cessna business jet maker Textron's request to act as an intervenor. Textron had argued that steps like using an auditor don't adequately protect information "which risks being found in the hands of its rivals, primarily Bombardier," filings show.Textron and Gulfstream declined comment.Bombardier said it welcomed the February 15 decision by the Court of Appeal, in line with the original ruling and would contest any motion to seek leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada.(Reporting By Allison Lampert in Montreal, Additional reporting by Tim Hepher in Paris, Editing by Nick Zieminski; Editing by Denny Thomas and Nick Zieminski)

Reuters

Honeywell will seek 'relief' on Bombardier engine pricing case at Canada's top court

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/honeywell-seek-relief-bombardier-engine-110344944.html

f6dc6ee0-c223-3c61-934b-0212f40a73ff

HPE

HPE Infrastructure provides efficient, open and flexible connectivity across 3,000 sites throughout urban and rural communitiesBARCELONA, February 26, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE: HPE) announced it is working with TELUS, which is building Canada’s first 5G open radio access network (Open RAN), by providing infrastructure across 3,000 sites. Once completed, the new TELUS Open RAN 5G network will provide instantaneously-responsive connectivity enhancing the customer experience with faster connectivity and mobile access.Designed specifically to support high-performance telecommunications workloads, HPE ProLiant DL110 Gen11 servers provide an open and flexible, virtualized foundation to deliver next-generation cellular connectivity to urban and rural Canadians. The servers provide Open RAN infrastructure to assist TELUS with the interoperability it needed to build a scalable, best-of-breed 5G network. HPE ProLiant Gen11 servers will provide the foundation for a Distributed Unit (DU) which is responsible for preparing data for transmission across the 5G network."Open RAN technology enables HPE’s telco customers the interoperability to design and manage their network with the equipment and software they desire," said Phil Cutrone, senior vice president and general manager of Service Providers, OEM and Telco at HPE. "This is one example of why we are the infrastructure of choice for telco carriers worldwide. HPE enables success by providing the most energy efficient, open, and flexible solutions at the edge."Access to 5G networks is expected to transform worldwide data networks by enabling real-time internet of things (IoT) systems like immersive virtual reality and embedding artificial intelligence (AI) in business and consumer applications. Projections estimate 5G will triple network traffic by 20281. This includes demand from remote and rural businesses and consumers that have traditionally had limited access to data networks, as 5G communications are expected to enable their operations and communities to thrive.Story continues"We are excited to elevate mobile communications for Canadians through the integration of our 5G network with Open RAN, which offers unmatched flexibility and diversity in services," stated Nazim Benhadid, Chief Technology Officer at TELUS. "Partnering with HPE, we are constructing a next-generation network that lays the foundation for continuous innovation and success for both our business and consumer customers. Moreover, this HPE solution not only meets the performance requirements but also plays a pivotal role in our commitment to reducing energy intensity per terabyte of data traffic by 50% by 2030."HPE ProLiant Gen11 servers are purpose-built, ruggedized, and Network Equipment-Building System (NEBS)-compliant to enable an Open RAN solution. Providing a DU that frees TELUS from historical reliance on proprietary appliances enables the carrier to smoothly and flexibly integrate with other Open RAN 5G infrastructure components.The HPE ProLiant DL110 Gen11 servers use AI-enabled innovation to distinguish between periods of high and low utilization, putting under-utilized infrastructure into an idle state without compromising latency or RAN network availability. The ability to optimize power consumption produces infrastructure power savings compared to existing Open RAN implementations.About Hewlett Packard EnterpriseHewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE: HPE) is the global edge-to-cloud company that helps organizations accelerate outcomes by unlocking value from all of their data, everywhere. Built on decades of reimagining the future and innovating to advance the way people live and work, HPE delivers unique, open, and intelligent technology solutions as a service. With offerings spanning Cloud Services, Compute, High Performance Computing & AI, Intelligent Edge, Software, and Storage, HPE provides a consistent experience across all clouds and edges, helping customers develop new business models, engage in new ways, and increase operational performance. For more information, visit: www.hpe.com1 Statista, 5G Statistics & Facts, January 26, 2024View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240225800720/en/ContactsKari [email protected]

Business Wire

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Powering TELUS to Deliver Canada’s First 5G Open RAN Network

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hewlett-packard-enterprise-powering-telus-073000616.html

f121109a-1097-38b3-bebe-deea124602ea

HPE

Analysts on Wall Street project that Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) will announce quarterly earnings of $0.45 per share in its forthcoming report, representing a decline of 28.6% year over year. Revenues are projected to reach $7.07 billion, declining 9.5% from the same quarter last year.The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days. This represents how the covering analysts, as a whole, have reassessed their initial estimates during this timeframe.Ahead of a company's earnings disclosure, it is crucial to give due consideration to changes in earnings estimates. These revisions serve as a noteworthy factor in predicting potential investor reactions to the stock. Numerous empirical studies consistently demonstrate a strong relationship between trends in earnings estimate revision and the short-term price performance of a stock.While investors typically use consensus earnings and revenue estimates as indicators of quarterly business performance, exploring analysts' projections for specific key metrics can offer valuable insights.In light of this perspective, let's dive into the average estimates of certain Hewlett Packard Enterprise metrics that are commonly tracked and forecasted by Wall Street analysts.Analysts' assessment points toward 'Revenue- Financial Services' reaching $881.22 million. The estimate suggests a change of +0.9% year over year.The consensus among analysts is that 'Revenue- Intelligent Edge' will reach $1.32 billion. The estimate suggests a change of +16.7% year over year.Analysts forecast 'Revenue- Corporate Investments and other' to reach $298.40 million. The estimate points to a change of +1.8% from the year-ago quarter.The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Earnings from Operations- Financial Services' will likely reach $73.95 million. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported $82 million in the same quarter last year.Story continuesThe consensus estimate for 'Earnings from Operations- Intelligent Edge' stands at $318.97 million. The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of $247 million.View all Key Company Metrics for Hewlett Packard Enterprise here>>>Over the past month, Hewlett Packard Enterprise shares have recorded returns of -4.6% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +4.7% change. Based on its Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), HPE will likely exhibit a performance that aligns with the overall market in the upcoming period. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>>Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHewlett Packard Enterprise Company (HPE) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Insights Into Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) Q1: Wall Street Projections for Key Metrics

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/insights-hewlett-packard-enterprise-hpe-141604889.html

a476b033-ee53-327d-937f-6e045c60287c

HPE

In this article, we discuss the 10 best edge computing stocks to buy. If you want to skip our discussion on the edge computing market, head over to 5 Best Edge Computing Stocks To Buy. What is Edge Computing? Edge computing focuses on bringing computing power closer to where data is generated, rather than relying on a centralized cloud-based system. In simple terms, edge computing involves relocating a part of storage and computing capabilities from the central data center to close proximity of data sources. Rather than sending raw data to a central facility for analysis, computation is performed at the location where the data is generated and only the computed results, like real-time business insights or equipment maintenance predictions, are transmitted back to the central data center. Devices such as smart speakers, watches, and phones, which engage in edge computing by locally collecting and processing data, are already a part of our daily lives.Contrary to what some may think, edge computing doesn't need a separate "edge network." It can work on single devices or routers. If a separate network is used, 5G is important, offering fast wireless connections. This enables cool applications like autonomous drones, remote surgeries, and smart cities. The edge network is useful when on-site computing is too expensive or complex, but fast responses are needed, and the cloud is too distant. Edge networks enable local computation, allowing devices at the edge (like sensors, cameras, or IoT devices) to process data and make decisions without the need to send all information to a centralized cloud for analysis.The Intelligent Edge aims to provide faster, more reliable, and efficient processing for quicker decision-making and reduced dependence on centralized cloud systems, which may face issues like latency and bandwidth. However, deploying and managing edge computing infrastructures pose challenges due to technological complexity, overwhelming data volume, and interoperability issues. Gartner predicts that by 2026, at least 50% of edge computing deployments will involve machine learning. AI algorithms are well-suited for the data-rich environments of edge computing, enabling quick and accurate analysis of vast data sets. Integrating AI allows edge devices to independently process and act on collected data without constant communication with a central server. This integration enhances decision-making speed, crucial for applications like real-time inventory management or industrial equipment calibration. Story continuesEdge Computing Market Size and Key TrendsAccording to Expert Market Research, the global edge computing market is anticipated to grow significantly from $15.54 billion in 2023 to $147.38 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.4% during the forecast period of 2024-2032. This growth is attributed to the rise of autonomous vehicles, connected car networks, and the demand for lightweight frameworks and applications to enhance edge computing efficiency, creating numerous market opportunities. PwC expects the global market for edge data centers to nearly triple, reaching $13.5 billion in 2024 from $4 billion in 2017. This growth is driven by the potential of locally located data centers to reduce latency, address intermittent connections, and enable data storage and computation in close proximity to end-users. Edge data centers are growing in popularity due to several key trends. The introduction of 5G is a big factor, as these smaller decentralized centers support high-density 5G applications with low costs and latency, especially in smart-city scenarios. Similarly, the increasing use of IoT devices requires quick data processing at the edge to handle the growing amount of information from sensors in homes and industries. Moreover, the adoption of software-defined networking and virtualization technologies allows software to replace expensive hardware in data centers. Lastly, the demand for video streaming and AR/VR is met by these cost-effective edge data centers, reducing latency and providing good performance for users.Read also: Top 15 Edge Computing Companies in the WorldWhat’s New in the Edge Computing Market? On January 5, 2024, International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) disclosed that it is partnering with American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT), a global digital infrastructure provider, to accelerate the deployment of a hybrid, multi-cloud computing platform at the edge. This collaboration aims to expand American Tower's Access Edge Data Center ecosystem by integrating IBM Hybrid Cloud capabilities and Red Hat OpenShift. The goal is to help clients address evolving customer requirements and expectations in digital transformation, incorporating technologies like IoT, 5G, AI, and network automation. IBM plans to provide American Tower with a hybrid cloud platform, facilitating the creation of an edge cloud at American Tower's distributed real estate locations. Similarly, on February 5, Ernst & Young announced that it has launched the EY Edge Technologies Lab, aiming to forefront edge ecosystem technologies in digital transformation. This initiative focuses on creating real-time, industry-specific use cases and prototypes for edge-centric solutions, integrating technology seamlessly into business operations. Leveraging EY.ai, a platform combining business experience with AI technology, the Lab demonstrates the advantages of embedding AI at the edge to optimize speed, performance, security, reliability, and resiliency for businesses. The Lab uses Dell NativeEdge and collaborates with Microsoft, PTC, GE Digital, Snowflake, and others to enhance business operations and leverage edge technology efficiently.Some of the best edge computing market leaders to invest in include Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), and NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA). Our Methodology For a list of the best edge computing market leaders, we scanned Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database of 933 hedge funds and picked 10 companies operating in the edge computing software and hardware services industry with the highest number of hedge funds. These are the best edge computing market leaders to invest in according to hedge funds. Hedge funds’ top 10 consensus stock picks outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here).Edge Computing Market Size and Best Stocks To BuyA futuristic datacenter with servers and high-tech equipment, signifying the company's cutting-edge digital technology.Edge Computing Market Size and Best Stocks To Buy10. Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 44Ranking 10th on our list of edge computing market leaders is Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET). It is a global cloud services provider offering cloud-based security solutions for different platforms, web and application security products, and performance optimization solutions such as content delivery and load balancing. The company also provides a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform called Cloudflare One, along with network services for connectivity, security, and performance. In Q4 2023, Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET) reported adjusted earnings per share of 15 cents, surpassing analysts' expectations of 12 cents. The company's revenue for the quarter was $362.5 million, reflecting a 32% year-over-year increase and beating the anticipated $353 million. Cloudflare achieved record operating cash flow at $85.4 million, equivalent to 24% of total revenue, and set a quarterly free cash flow record at $50.7 million, representing 14% of total revenue.According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 44 hedge funds were long Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET), compared to 37 funds in the prior quarter. John Overdeck and David Siegel’s Two Sigma Advisors is the largest stakeholder of the company, with 2 million shares worth $165.4 million. Like Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), and NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA), Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET) is one of the edge computing market leaders to watch. Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund stated the following regarding Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET) in its fourth quarter 2023 investor letter:“Most of our portfolio companies have seen stabilization and modest improvements in short-term business fundamentals as the year progressed. More importantly in our view, many have been able to drive significant improvement in long-term Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as share gains, meaningful expansion of their total addressable market, and improvement in unit economics. These KPIs are significantly more important in driving the intrinsic values of our businesses, which we believe have increased noticeably during 2023. In the meantime, disruptive changes that we expect will benefit many of our businesses have also continued to pick up steam. Some examples include: • Another example is the leading cloud networking and cybersecurity solution provider, Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET), who described market share gains and customers consolidating from multiple point solutions to Cloudflare’s platform: “And so we’re the one vendor that is able to give people that vendor consolidation, that single pane of glass… that comes through in a lot of customer examples…. People want to buy the entire Cloudflare platform. They want to protect their entire business with that, and that’s driving more interest in both our network security, as well as our Zero Trust products.”9. International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 50International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) ranks 9th on our list of edge computing market leaders. It provides integrated solutions and services globally through its Software, Consulting, Infrastructure, and Financing segments. IBM focuses on hybrid cloud and AI platforms, consulting for different industries, and offers on-premises and cloud-based infrastructure solutions. International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) is one of the top edge computing market leaders. On January 30, International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) declared a quarterly dividend of $1.66 per share, in line with previous. The dividend is payable on March 9, to shareholders on record as of February 9. According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 50 hedge funds were bullish on International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM), compared to 53 funds in the earlier quarter. Ken Griffin’s Citadel Investment Group is the leading stakeholder of the company, with 1.45 million shares worth $238.5 million. Diamond Hill Long-Short Fund made the following comment about International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) in its Q4 2022 investor letter:“New positions initiated in Q4 included shorts International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM), Acushnet Holdings (GOLF) and elf Beauty (ELF). Since diversified information technology company IBM’s 2019 acquisition of Red Hat, the company has aggressively pursued a hybrid cloud strategy. Though IBM and its new management team have made solid progress on this pivot, we believe the company still meaningfully lags the cloud hyperscalers and other cloud-native companies. Management has also laid out aggressive long-term targets for revenue growth and free cash flow, both of which we believe the company will struggle to achieve as it faces intense competition in its hybrid cloud business and structural headwinds in the company’s legacy businesses.”8. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 50Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE) provides data solutions globally through Compute, HPC & AI, Storage, Intelligent Edge, Financial Services, and Corporate Investments segments. Their offerings include servers, storage products, edge systems, networking solutions, and related services. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE) ranks 8th on our list of the edge computing market leaders. On February 27, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE) CEO Antonio Neri mentioned that the company is manufacturing some of its servers in the Middle East to enhance supply chain resilience and meet growing demand. The decision is not solely driven by geopolitical factors but also aims to address potential disruptions caused by natural disasters. According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 50 hedge funds were bullish on Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE), compared to 47 funds in the prior quarter. Cliff Asness’ AQR Capital Management is the largest stakeholder of the company, with 14.6 million shares worth $248 million. 7. Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 58Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is next on our list of the edge computing market leaders. It is a global professional services company that offers application services, intelligent automation, software engineering, data and analytics, metaverse, sustainability, change management, HR transformation, digital commerce, infrastructure services, technology consulting, engineering and R&D digitization, business process outsourcing, and other technology-related services. Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is one of the top edge computing market leaders. On December 19, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) reported financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 ending November 30, 2023. The company posted a Non-GAAP EPS of $3.27, beating market estimates by $0.14. The revenue of $16.2 billion was in-line with Street consensus. According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 58 hedge funds were long Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN), compared to 55 funds in the prior quarter. GuardCap Asset Management is the largest stakeholder of the company, with 1.74 million shares worth $610.6 million. ClearBridge International Growth EAFE Strategy stated the following regarding Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) in its fourth quarter 2023 investor letter:“Another welcome change has been the recognition of generative artificial intelligence (AI) opportunities for companies outside the U.S. While our IT holdings trailed their mega cap U.S. counterparts for most of the year, semiconductor equipment makers ASML and Tokyo Electron, which we consider enablers of AI, as well as enterprise software maker SAP and IT consultant Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN), which we see as facilitators of AI adoption in new product lines and/or enhanced business models, rose strongly in the quarter. These companies are rolling out new, AI-enhanced products at higher prices which should positively impact earnings in the near term.”6. Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 64Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) specializes in developing, marketing, and selling data-driven networking solutions for data center and cloud networking, including AI-driven ethernet switching platforms, campus wired and wireless products, and routing systems. The company serves diverse industries such as internet companies, service providers, financial services, government agencies, media, and telecommunications. Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) ranks 6th on our list of edge computing market leadersOn February 12, Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) reported Q4 non-GAAP earnings per share of $2.08, exceeding Wall Street estimates by $0.37. The revenue increased 20.3% year-over-year to $1.54 billion, in-line with market consensus. According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 64 hedge funds were bullish on Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET), compared to 59 funds in the prior quarter. Steve Cohen’s Point72 Asset Management is the biggest stakeholder of the company, with 833,408 shares worth $196.2 million. In addition to Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), and NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA), Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) is one of the notable edge computing market leaders. Giverny Capital Asset Management stated the following regarding Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) in its fourth quarter 2023 investor letter:“We did a bit of portfolio sculpting during the year, with mixed results. We trimmed Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) several times during the year as it soared. Those trims, a very small one in March at roughly $163 and a larger one in August at $183, don’t look smart with Arista finishing the year at $235 (and up more in January). Arista rose 94% this year. The good news is, Arista finished the year as our second largest holding, at 7.9% of the portfolio.If you are wondering how I could sell some Arista at $163 but then hold most of it at $235, the answer is that Arista’s outstanding competitive position in Artificial Intelligence became clearer to me as the year progressed. I felt in March that Arista would earn $8 per share in a few years. I see today that it might earn $8 in 2025.It’s possible there is AI-related froth in the Arista stock price, but also probable that Arista will continue to grow rapidly as the computing centers that process AI queries require enormous amounts of data bandwidth. I believe Arista’s routers and switches are the best tools for routing so-called hyperscale traffic. Also, its operating software allows computer giants to manage the kudzu-like growth of their data centers, lowering their total cost of operation.The sales of both Arista and Heico reflected my desire to manage PE multiple risk. I keep learning the hard way, however, that trimming your winners generally doesn’t add value. If the valuation is beyond justification, sell the position. If the valuation is high but the business continues to dominate its niche, grow steadily and add value for customers, maybe just take a walk around the block until the urge to sell goes away.”   Click to continue reading and see 5 Best Edge Computing Stocks To Buy.    Suggested articles:16 Best Future Stocks For The Long Term15 Best Stocks to Buy According to Billionaire D.E. Shaw25 Countries with Developing Economies but Slow Growth Rates Disclosure: None. Edge Computing Market Size and Best Stocks To Buy is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

Edge Computing Market Size and Best Stocks To Buy

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/edge-computing-market-size-best-175948424.html

6daa732c-3c4f-3559-8280-730da2e5408a

HPE

HOUSTON, March 11, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE: HPE) today announced Gartner has recognized HPE Aruba Networking as a Leader in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Wired and Wireless LAN Infrastructure. This is the 18th consecutive time that HPE Aruba Networking has been positioned in the Leaders Quadrant by Gartner.In the Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Wired and Wireless LAN Infrastructure report, Gartner evaluated vendors based on two primary criteria: Completeness of Vision and Ability to Execute. The report includes an assessment of each vendor’s strengths and cautions."We believe our position in this report is a result of HPE Aruba Networking offering customers a centralized platform, ensuring increased network reliability and security, and integration of AI into network management solutions to provide innovative capabilities to enhance both network team and end-user experiences," said David Hughes, Chief Product and Technology Officer, HPE Aruba Networking. "We continue to address key customer needs with HPE Aruba Networking Central that are available both on-premises and via the cloud with the UI refresh, as well as zero trust security, dynamic expansion of NaaS, and acquisition-driven advancements with Axis Security in SSE solutions, and Athonet in Private 5G technology.""We believe being named a Leader for the 18th consecutive time confirms our expertise in wired and wireless LAN infrastructure across campus, branch, and remote deployments, and also highlights a broad set of additional solutions including data center switching, Private 5G, and IoT networks with integrated workflow automation and edge-to-cloud security," said Scott Calzia, Vice President of Marketing, HPE Aruba Networking.HPE continues to drive innovation in networking to address key customer needs. Last year, HPE brought Private 5G into the enterprise wireless space as part of an integrated, cloud-managed solution through the acquisition of private cellular network technology provider Athonet. HPE also increased Zero Trust security with built-in support for Cloud NAC, universal policy, and EVPN/VxLAN access enforcement through last year’s acquisition of cloud security provider Axis Security. At the beginning of this year, HPE announced its intent to acquire Juniper Networks, doubling down on its networking business and AI-driven innovation.Story continuesWith the placement as a Leader in the Magic Quadrant, HPE believes it is in a stronger position than ever to transform the networking market.Additional resourcesTo learn more, visit the HPE Aruba Networking website. For real-time news updates, follow HPE Aruba Networking on X/Twitter and Facebook, and for the latest technical discussions on mobility and products, visit the Airheads Community at community.arubanetworks.com.Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Wired and Wireless LAN Infrastructure, Tim Zimmerman, Mike Leibovitz, Nauman Raja, March 6, 2024.HPE Aruba Networking is recognized as HPE (Aruba) in the 2024 Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Wired and Wireless LAN Infrastructure reportHPE Aruba Networking’s 18 times of placement includes the Magic Quadrant for Wired & Wireless LAN Infrastructure from 2015-2024 (9 years, report not published in 2023), HPE Aruba Networking in the same Magic Quadrant from 2012-2014 (3 years) and in the Magic Quadrant for Wireless LAN Infrastructure from 2006-2011 (5 years, report not published in 2009). HPE Aruba Networking was also placed in the Magic Quadrant for Wireless LAN Infrastructure, 2005: Leaders and Challengers.GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner and Magic Quadrant is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.About Hewlett Packard EnterpriseHewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE: HPE) is the global edge-to-cloud company that helps organizations accelerate outcomes by unlocking value from all of their data, everywhere. Built on decades of reimagining the future and innovating to advance the way people live and work, HPE delivers unique, open, and intelligent technology solutions as a service. With offerings spanning Cloud Services, Compute, High Performance Computing & AI, Intelligent Edge, Software, and Storage, HPE provides a consistent experience across all clouds and edges, helping customers develop new business models, engage in new ways, and increase operational performance. For more information, visit: www.hpe.com.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240311838914/en/ContactsBen [email protected]

Business Wire

HPE Aruba Networking Positioned as a Leader for 18th Consecutive Time in 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Enterprise Wired and Wireless LAN Infrastructure Report

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hpe-aruba-networking-positioned-leader-151500095.html

203fa076-065a-365e-8ae5-55bdb3203aed

HPQ

HP Inc. HPQ is scheduled to report first-quarter fiscal 2024 results on Feb 28.The company expects fiscal first-quarter non-GAAP earnings per share between 76 cents and 86 cents. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 82 cents, indicating an improvement of 9.3% from the year-ago quarter.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues stands at $13.61 billion, suggesting a decline of 1.6% from the prior-year quarter.HP’s earnings surpassed the consensus mark in two of the trailing four quarters while matching on two occasions, the average surprise being 1.7%.Let’s see how things have shaped up before the announcement.HP Inc. Price and EPS SurpriseHP Inc. price-eps-surprise | HP Inc. QuoteFactors to ConsiderHP’s first-quarter performance is likely to have witnessed a negative impact of the slowdown in consumer demand for PCs and high inventory levels. HP witnessed the robust demand for its PCs during the pandemic-led work-and-learn-from-home wave.However, the reopening of economies and offices, inflationary pressure and recession concerns have been waning the demand for PCs. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Consumer PC’s first-quarter revenues is pegged at $3.02 billion.Furthermore, enterprises are postponing their large IT spending plans due to the weakening global economy amid ongoing macroeconomic and geopolitical issues. This might have hurt HP’s commercial PC sales in the to-be-reported quarter. The consensus mark for Commercial PC’s first-quarter revenues is pegged at $6.22 billion.However, inventory normalization at channel partners is likely to have somewhat offset the aforementioned negative impacts. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for HP’s Personal Systems revenues stands at approximately $9.25 billion, almost flat from the year-ago quarter’s sales of $9.22 billion.HP’s Printing division’s sales are likely to have been hampered by softened consumer demand. The consensus mark for the segment’s first-quarter revenues is pegged at $4.37 billion, down from the year-ago quarter’s $4.61 billion.Story continuesHowever, HP’s first-quarter bottom line is likely to have witnessed the benefits of favorable pricing, disciplined cost management and a better product mix. However, lower revenues, higher commodity costs, unfavorable currency exchange rates, increased investments in innovation and the go-to-market strategy are expected to have partially offset the benefits.What Our Model SaysOur proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for HP Inc. this season. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the chances of an earnings beat. However, that’s not the case here.Though HP currently carries a Zacks Rank of 3, it has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.Stocks With the Favorable CombinationPer our model, SEMrush SEMR, Guidewire Software GWRE and JD.com JD have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat in their upcoming releases.SEMrush carries a Zacks Rank #2 and has an Earnings ESP of +23.08%. The company is scheduled to report fourth-quarter 2023 results on Mar 4. Its bottom-line result surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 112.5%. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for SEMrush’s fourth-quarter bottom line is pegged at earnings of 3 cents per share, indicating a robust improvement from the year-ago quarter’s loss of 8 cents. The consensus mark for revenues stands at $83.2 million, calling for a year-over-year increase of 20.9%.Guidewire Software is slated to report second-quarter fiscal 2024 results on Mar 7. The company has a Zacks Rank #3 and an Earnings ESP of +4.76% at present. Guidewire Software’s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate thrice in the trailing four quarters while missing on one occasion, the average surprise being -42.22%.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter earnings is pegged at 21 cents per share, suggesting a strong improvement from the year-ago quarter’s loss of 21 cents. Guidewire Software’s quarterly revenues are estimated to improve 3.6% to $240.9 million.JD.com carries a Zacks Rank #3 and has an Earnings ESP of +0.78%. The company is scheduled to report fourth-quarter 2023 results on Mar 6. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the preceding four quarters, with the average surprise being 14.5%.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for JD.com’s fourth-quarter earnings stands at 65 cents per share, indicating a year-over-year decline of 7.1%. It is estimated to report revenues of $42.56 billion, which implies a decrease of approximately 0.7% from the year-ago quarter.Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHP Inc. (HPQ) : Free Stock Analysis ReportGuidewire Software, Inc. (GWRE) : Free Stock Analysis ReportJD.com, Inc. (JD) : Free Stock Analysis ReportSEMrush Holdings, Inc. (SEMR) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

HP Inc. (HPQ) to Report Q1 Earnings: What's in the Cards?

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hp-inc-hpq-report-q1-133700061.html

c6bc9be2-d2b4-351a-9e13-eecae2f96715

HPQ

For Immediate ReleaseChicago, IL – February 26, 2024 – Today, Zacks Equity Research discusses Apple AAPL, HP HPQ and 3D Systems DDD.Industry: Mini-ComputersLink: https://www.zacks.com/commentary/2231033/3-stocks-to-watch-from-the-prospering-computer-industryThe Zacks Computer - Mini Computers industry is benefiting from steady demand for enterprise devices, including laptops, tablets and smartphones. Industry participants like Apple, HP and 3D Systems are benefiting from these trends. The improving availability of 5G-enabled smartphones has been a key catalyst for the industry participants. The launch of foldable and AI and ML-infused smartphones, tablets, wearables and hearables is another major growth driver for the industry participants.Robust demand for production printers, materials and software bodes well for 3-D printing solution providers. However, waning demand for consumer PCs and geopolitical challenges, including raging inflation and high interest, are major headwinds.Industry DescriptionThe Zacks Computer – Mini Computers industry comprises companies that offer smartphones, desktops, laptops, printers, wearables and 3-D printers. Such devices are based either on iOS, MacOS, iPadOS, WatchOS, Microsoft Windows, or Google Chrome and Android operating systems. The companies predominantly use processors from Apple, Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, NVIDIA and Samsung.Expanding screen size, better display and enhanced storage capabilities have been the key catalysts driving the rapid proliferation of smartphones. This has been well-supported by faster mobile processors. Laptops, both consumer and commercial, benefit from faster processors, sleek designs and expanded storage facilities. The addition of healthcare features has been driving the demand for wearables.3 Mini Computer Industry Trends to WatchEnterprise Adoption Remains Healthy: Strong enterprise demand has been benefiting the industry participants. The growing adoption of a hybrid working environment bodes well for the players, as demand for laptops and tablets is expected to increase. Demand for smart devices that offer facial recognition, retina scans or finger impressions to verify the user for biometrics is gaining traction as enterprises enhance security.Story continuesImpressive Form Factor Drives Demand: Expanding screen size, better display and enhanced storage capabilities have been the key catalysts driving the rapid proliferation of smartphones and tablets. This has been well-supported by faster mobile processors from the likes of Qualcomm, NVIDIA, Apple and Samsung.Improved Internet penetration and speed, along with the evolution of mobile apps, have made smartphones indispensable for consumers. Improved graphics quality is making smartphones suitable for playing sophisticated games. This is driving the demand for high-end smartphones and opening up significant opportunities for device makers.PCs Face Extinction Risk: Personal computers (desktops and laptops), be it Windows or Apple's MacOS-based ones, have been facing the risk of extinction due to the rapid proliferation of smartphones and tablets. Stiff competition from smartphones has compelled global PC makers to not only upgrade hardware frequently but also add apps and cloud-based services to attract consumers. Nevertheless, the emergence of 5G, AI, machine learning and foldable computers is likely to be the key catalysts in expanding the total addressable market of PCs.Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Bright ProspectsThe Zacks Computer – Mini Computers industry is housed within the broader Zacks Computer and Technology sector. It carries a Zacks Industry Rank #104, which places it in the top 41% of more than 250 Zacks industries.The group's Zacks Industry Rank, which is the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates bright near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than two to one.The industry's position in the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries is a result of a positive earnings outlook for the constituent companies in aggregate. Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts are optimistic about this group's earnings growth potential. Since Oct 31, 2023, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for this industry's 2024 earnings has moved up 0.5%.Given the bullish outlook, there are a few stocks worth watching in the sector. But before we present those stocks that you may want to consider for your portfolio, let's take a look at the industry's recent stock-market performance and valuation picture.Industry Lags Sector and S&P 500The Zacks Computer – Mini Computers industry has underperformed the broader Zacks Computer and Technology sector as well as the S&P 500 index over the past year.The industry has gained 22.8% over this period compared with the S&P 500's return of 27% and the broader sector's rise of 50.9%.Industry's Current ValuationOn the basis of forward 12-month P/E, which is a commonly used multiple for valuing computer stocks, we see that the industry is currently trading at 26.61X compared with the S&P 500's 21.02X and the sector's 26.72X.Over the last five years, the industry has traded as high as 32.32X and as low as 13.92X, with the median being 24.64X.3 Computer Stocks to Watch Right NowApple: This Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company is benefiting from a steady demand for iPhone devices, as well as an expanding footprint in emerging markets. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.A growing subscriber base and improving customer engagement are tailwinds for the services business. Apple currently has more than 1 billion paid subscribers across its Services portfolio. The App Store continues to draw the attention of prominent developers worldwide, helping it offer appealing new apps that drive the App Store's traffic. A growing number of AI-infused apps will attract subscribers to the App Store.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2024 earnings has decreased by 0.6% to $6.56 per share over the past 30 days. The stock has declined 4.2% in the year-to-date period.HP: This Zacks Rank #3 company's sustained focus on launching the latest and innovative products is likely to help it stay afloat in the current uncertain macroeconomic environment.Product innovation and differentiations are the key drivers that have helped HPQ maintain its leading position in the PC and printer markets.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2024 earnings has been steady at $3.45 per share over the past 30 days. HP shares have declined 3.8% year to date.3D Systems: This Zacks Rank #3 company expects the dental market to stabilize amid the high inventory level in the supply chain and weakness in consumer discretionary spending.3D System expects a slower recovery in 2024 than its earlier expectation. Dental sales are expected to benefit from the continuing migration of orthodontic solutions from metal brackets and wires to clear aligners in the long run. Improved asset management and resource utilization are anticipated to reduce its total inventory significantly in 2024.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 earnings has increased by a penny to 8 cents per share over the past 30 days. The stock has declined 21.9% in the year-to-date period.Why Haven't You Looked at Zacks' Top Stocks? Since 2000, our top stock-picking strategies have blown away the S&P's +7.0 average gain per year. Amazingly, they soared with average gains of +44.9%, +48.4% and +55.2% per year.Today you can access their live picks without cost or obligation.See Stocks Free >>Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZacksInvestmentResearch/Zacks Investment Research is under common control with affiliated entities (including a broker-dealer and an investment adviser), which may engage in transactions involving the foregoing securities for the clients of such affiliates.Media ContactZacks Investment Research800-767-3771 ext. [email protected]://www.zacks.comPast performance is no guarantee of future results. Inherent in any investment is the potential for loss. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold a security. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. It should not be assumed that any investments in securities, companies, sectors or markets identified and described were or will be profitable. All information is current as of the date of herein and is subject to change without notice. Any views or opinions expressed may not reflect those of the firm as a whole. Zacks Investment Research does not engage in investment banking, market making or asset management activities of any securities. These returns are from hypothetical portfolios consisting of stocks with Zacks Rank = 1 that were rebalanced monthly with zero transaction costs. These are not the returns of actual portfolios of stocks. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index. Visit https://www.zacks.com/performance  for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportApple Inc. (AAPL) : Free Stock Analysis ReportHP Inc. (HPQ) : Free Stock Analysis Report3D Systems Corporation (DDD) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Zacks Industry Outlook Highlights Apple, HP and 3D Systems

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/zacks-industry-outlook-highlights-apple-141900015.html

aec45981-21a9-3597-82f1-9e3811a0a340

HPQ

Hewlett Packard Inc. HPQ has unveiled a range of solutions for its partners. The solutions include HP Workforce Experience Platform ("WEX") and solutions for managed service offering for PCs, and a print subscription service. The company has also announced a few soft packages, services and programs to lengthen the life of its devices.WEX is designed to provide chief information officers with an AI-enabled digital experience platform. WEX comes with a user-friendly interface that integrates multiple services into a single platform, enhancing the overall experience for customers. Its key features include persona-based recommendations, streamlined hardware monitoring, total cost of ownership reduction, task automation and security enhancement.Device life extension service is one of the many services that HPQ has launched. The service is introduced to help customers to improve performance of their systems and extend lifespan of their devices. This will ensure that customers will not have to purchase new devices to stay updated, hence reduce their carbon footprint. Customers have to ship their devices to HPQ in order to get these devices back with improved performance.Alongside this program, HPQ has also launched its first Partner Certified Refurbishment program.Management announced new services to reduce the workload for its channel partners. One of these is New Managed Device Services, which provides a complete PC service including device setup, management, onsite support, proactive monitoring and suggestions for fleet enhancements. It also includes a service package to enhance offerings.HPQ’s Enhanced Managed Print Services now covers multi-country deal setup. New Managed Print Services Subscription enables low commitment annual subscription to their printing services from anywhere in the world. The service portfolio also includes New Sales Toolkits and Simplified Support Services Offerings.HPQ to Gain From PC and Printing Market’s RecoveryThese announcements, made during Amplify Partner Conference 2024, reflect Hewlett Packard’s strategy to streamline its PC and printing businesses. The PC market has already been recovering from post pandemic effects, which can work as a tailwind for the company.Story continuesGartner and International Data Corporation's latest forecasts predict a likely recovery in the PC market in 2024. They suggest that the worst times for PC vendors are over and there is a growing demand for PCs due to refresh cycle. This demand is driven by upgrades to Windows 11 and replacement of PCs bought during the pandemic. Gartner anticipates a 4.9% increase in PC shipments in 2024, while International Data Corporation predicts a 3.4% growth from a year ago.Hewlett Packard’s new announcements on its Print Services combined with its increasing investments on new generation A3 multifunction printers will likely boost the print segment’s prospects. Moreover, the acquisition of Samsung Electronics' printer business has strategically benefited its printer business turnaround. With over 6,500 printing patents, S-Print is enhancing HPQ's presence in the sector and supporting the development and manufacturing of Hewlett Packard printers.Zacks Rank and Stocks to ConsiderCurrently, Hewlett Packard carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). HPQ shares have gained 8.1% in the past year.Some better-ranked stocks from the broader technology sector are BlackLine BL, Adobe ADBE and Dell Technologies DELL, each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for BlackLine’s first-quarter 2024 earnings has remained unchanged at 47 cents per share for the past 90 days. Shares of BL have lost 4% in the past year.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Adobe’s first-quarter 2024 earnings has been revised by 12 cents northward to $4.38 per share in the past 90 days. Shares of ADBE have rallied 57% in the past year.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for DELL’s first-quarter 2024 earnings has been revised downward by 5 cents to $1.35 per share in the past seven days. Shares of DELL have surged 211.7% in the past year.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHP Inc. (HPQ) : Free Stock Analysis ReportDell Technologies Inc. (DELL) : Free Stock Analysis ReportAdobe Inc. (ADBE) : Free Stock Analysis ReportBlackLine (BL) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Hewlett Packard (HPQ) Unveils Solutions for Its Partners

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hewlett-packard-hpq-unveils-solutions-173200795.html

230deff4-d466-340b-9a6a-b46be78440da

HPQ

Unpacking the Dividend Profile of HP Inc (NYSE:HPQ)HP Inc (NYSE:HPQ) recently announced a dividend of $0.28 per share, payable on 2024-04-03, with the ex-dividend date set for 2024-03-12. As investors look forward to this upcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, let's look into HP Inc's dividend performance and assess its sustainability.What Does HP Inc Do?Warning! GuruFocus has detected 2 Warning Sign with VALE.High Yield Dividend Stocks in Gurus' PortfolioThis Powerful Chart Made Peter Lynch 29% A Year For 13 YearsHow to calculate the intrinsic value of a stock?HP Inc, formerly Hewlett-Packard, is a behemoth in the PC and printing markets. It has focused on these markets since it exited IT infrastructure in 2015 with the split from Hewlett Packard Enterprise. HP Inc concentrates on the commercial market but maintains sales of consumer devices and printers. The firm has a broad and global customer base, with only one-third of sales coming from the US. It completely outsources manufacturing and relies heavily on channel partners for its sales and marketing.HP Inc's Dividend AnalysisA Glimpse at HP Inc's Dividend HistoryHP Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 1985. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.HP Inc's Dividend AnalysisBreaking Down HP Inc's Dividend Yield and GrowthAs of today, HP Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 3.46% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 3.59%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months. Over the past three years, HP Inc's annual dividend growth rate was 14.20%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate decreased to 14.00% per year. And over the past decade, HP Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 6.10%.Based on HP Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of HP Inc stock as of today is approximately 6.66%.Story continuesThe Sustainability Question: Payout Ratio and ProfitabilityTo assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2024-01-31, HP Inc's dividend payout ratio is 0.29.HP Inc's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks HP Inc's profitability 8 out of 10 as of 2024-01-31, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability.Growth Metrics: The Future OutlookTo ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. HP Inc's growth rank of 8 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors. Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and HP Inc's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. HP Inc's revenue has increased by approximately 10.40% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 67.4% of global competitors.The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, HP Inc's earnings increased by approximately 12.50% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 49.43% of global competitors.Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 4.60%, which outperforms approximately 36.11% of global competitors, indicates a healthy margin of profitability that could support future dividend payments.Concluding Thoughts on HP Inc's Dividend OutlookIn conclusion, HP Inc's upcoming dividend payment reflects not only its current financial strength but also its history of consistent shareholder returns. The company's dividend growth rate, reasonable payout ratio, and strong profitability rank paint a picture of a reliable dividend payer. Moreover, the solid growth metrics suggest that HP Inc is well-positioned to continue its dividend payments in the foreseeable future. For investors seeking income-generating stocks, HP Inc appears to be an attractive option. Will HP Inc maintain its dividend performance streak in the years to come? That remains a key question for investors monitoring the company's financial health and market position.GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener.This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

GuruFocus.com

HP Inc's Dividend Analysis

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hp-incs-dividend-analysis-110148754.html

d5cfb939-bc77-3007-85c4-d726203e81c8

HRL

Hormel Foods (HRL) is expected to deliver a year-over-year decline in earnings on lower revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended January 2024. This widely-known consensus outlook gives a good sense of the company's earnings picture, but how the actual results compare to these estimates is a powerful factor that could impact its near-term stock price.The earnings report, which is expected to be released on February 29, 2024, might help the stock move higher if these key numbers are better than expectations. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it's worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise.Zacks Consensus EstimateThis maker of Spam canned ham, Dinty Moore stew and other foods is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.34 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -15%.Revenues are expected to be $2.94 billion, down 1.1% from the year-ago quarter.Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 1.95% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.Investors should keep in mind that an aggregate change may not always reflect the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts.Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. This insight is at the core of our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction).The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.Story continuesThus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Hormel?For Hormel, the Most Accurate Estimate is higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +2.94%.On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #4.So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Hormel will beat the consensus EPS estimate.Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?Analysts often consider to what extent a company has been able to match consensus estimates in the past while calculating their estimates for its future earnings. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Hormel would post earnings of $0.45 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.42, delivering a surprise of -6.67%.Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates just once.Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.Hormel doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHormel Foods Corporation (HRL) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Earnings Preview: Hormel Foods (HRL) Q1 Earnings Expected to Decline

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/earnings-preview-hormel-foods-hrl-150026455.html

f32acd0b-ac2f-3780-84e5-5252a82ba30b

HRL

Hormel Foods Corporation HRL is likely to register a top-and-bottom-line decline when it reports first-quarter fiscal 2024 earnings on Feb 29. The consensus mark for earnings has remained unchanged in the past 30 days at 34 cents per share, which indicates a decrease of 15% from the year-ago quarter’s figure. HRL has a trailing four-quarter negative earnings surprise of 4.4%, on average.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pegged at $2.94 billion, indicating a drop of 1.1% from the $2.97 billion reported in the prior-year quarter.Factors to ConsiderHormel Foods has been operating in a dynamic operating landscape, including sluggish consumer demand, inflationary hurdles and challenges in the company’s turkey business. These may have impacted results in the quarter under review.Hormel Foods Corporation Price, Consensus and EPS SurpriseHormel Foods Corporation price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Hormel Foods Corporation QuoteThe company has been battling weakness in the International segment for a while. Fiscal 2023 remained particularly challenging for this business due to challenges in China, soft commodity markets and higher-than-anticipated elasticities on the branded export business. On its last earnings call, management highlighted that it expects drab International segment results in the first quarter. The consensus mark for the segment’s sales stands at $172 million for the quarter under review.Hormel Foods has been witnessing rising advertising expenses for a while. Management expects advertising investments to remain escalated during fiscal 2024 as it continues to support leading brands in the marketplace. This is likely to have put pressure on the company’s profits in the quarter under review.Nonetheless, HRL’s steadfast commitment to strategic priorities, transformational efforts, modernization initiatives, capacity expansion and innovative pipeline has been working well. Apart from this, a focus on initiatives like One Supply Chain, Project Orion and Digital Experience Group to accelerate growth bodes well.Story continuesWhat the Zacks Model UnveilsOur proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for Hormel Foods this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here.Hormel Foods has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%, and it carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.Stocks With the Favorable CombinationHere are three companies worth considering, as our model shows that these have the correct combination to beat on earnings this time:The Gap, Inc. GPS currently has an Earnings ESP of +24.44% and sports a Zacks Rank of 1. GPS is likely to register a bottom-line increase when it reports fourth-quarter fiscal 2023 numbers. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for quarterly earnings per share of 19 cents suggests a rise of 125.3% from the year-ago fiscal quarter’s reported number. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.Gap’s top line is expected to decrease from the prior-year fiscal quarter’s reported number. The consensus estimate for quarterly revenues is pegged at $4.21 billion, suggesting a decline of 0.7% from the prior-year fiscal quarter’s reported figure. GPS has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 137.9%, on average.Inter Parfums IPAR currently has an Earnings ESP of +7.14% and a Zacks Rank of 2. The company is likely to register a top-line increase when it reports fourth-quarter 2023 numbers. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Inter Parfums’ quarterly revenues is pegged at $329 million, indicating a rise of 5.9% from the figure reported in the prior-year quarter.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Inter Parfums’ quarterly earnings of 35 cents per share suggests a decrease of 50.7% from the year-ago quarter’s levels. IPAR has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 45.7%, on average.Costco Wholesale COST has an Earnings ESP of +1.58% and a Zacks Rank of 2. COST is likely to register top-and-bottom-line growth when it reports second-quarter fiscal 2024 numbers. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Costco’s quarterly revenues is pegged at $59.2 billion, suggesting an increase of 7.1% from that reported in the prior-year quarter.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Costco’s earnings for the second quarter has advanced by a penny in the past seven days to $3.60 per share, indicating a rise of 9.1% from the year-ago period reported figure. COST delivered an earnings beat of 2.6%, on average, in the trailing four quarters.Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportCostco Wholesale Corporation (COST) : Free Stock Analysis ReportThe Gap, Inc. (GPS) : Free Stock Analysis ReportHormel Foods Corporation (HRL) : Free Stock Analysis ReportInter Parfums, Inc. (IPAR) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Hormel Foods (HRL) Q1 Earnings Coming Up: Factors to Note

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hormel-foods-hrl-q1-earnings-125700062.html

f0c9f740-45c1-3c66-9376-aa960762514f

HRL

AUSTIN, Minn., March 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced it will participate in a fireside chat at the 2024 BofA Securities Consumer & Retail Conference on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at 10:20 a.m. CT (11:20 a.m. ET). Representing Hormel Foods will be Jacinth Smiley, executive vice president and chief financial officer, and Mark Ourada, group vice president of foodservice.Hormel Foods corporate logo (PRNewsfoto/Hormel Foods Corporation)A link to the live webcast, replay and other information related to the event can be accessed on the company's investor website, http://investor.hormelfoods.com.ABOUT HORMEL FOODS — Inspired People. Inspired Food.™Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minn., is a global branded food company with over $12 billion in annual revenue across more than 80 countries worldwide. Its brands include Planters®, SKIPPY®, SPAM®, Hormel® Natural Choice®, Applegate®, Justin's®, WHOLLY®, Hormel® Black Label®, Columbus®, Jennie-O® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The Company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report, one of America's most responsible companies by Newsweek, recognized on Fast Company's list of the 100 Best Workplaces for Innovators, received a perfect score of 100 on the 2023–24 Corporate Equality Index and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. The company lives by its purpose statement — Inspired People. Inspired Food.™ — to bring some of the world's most trusted and iconic brands to tables across the globe. For more information, visit www.hormelfoods.com.Investor RelationsMedia Relations(507) 437-5248(507) [email protected]@hormel.com           CisionView original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hormel-foods-to-present-at-the-2024-bofa-securities-consumer--retail-conference-302084772.htmlSOURCE Hormel Foods Corporation

PR Newswire

Hormel Foods to Present at the 2024 BofA Securities Consumer & Retail Conference

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hormel-foods-present-2024-bofa-110000184.html

0f716dd3-f008-3614-8aed-602b39bea353

HRL

Shares of Hormel Foods (NYSE: HRL) are more than a third lower than the high-water mark they reached in 2022, and that includes a huge stock-price advance advance following the release of fiscal first-quarter 2024 earnings. At the end of the day, Hormel's shares are still down so much because it continues to have lingering problems that need addressing.But the recent good news, which drove the short-term stock move, could be the start of a major business turnaround. Here's what you need to know.Hormel faces a host of problemsOver the past couple of years, food maker Hormel has been an industry laggard. Inflation has put pressure on the company's margins thanks to the rising cost of ingredients and increased employee compensation expenses, among other things.Management did what every other consumer staples company does in such situations: It raised prices. But consumers weren't as receptive to Hormel's price increases as they were to the hikes that competitors were pushing through. So this industry-wide issue became a company-specific problem for Hormel.Image source: Getty Images.To put a number on that, the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023 was a particularly weak moment for its most important business. The U.S. retail segment saw volume fall 3% and sales drop 4%. While the other two divisions -- food service and foreign -- performed much better than that, retail accounts for nearly two-thirds of the top line and is far more important to Hormel's overall performance.The mix of volume and sales declines in the consumer business in the fourth quarter strongly suggests that the company lacked pricing power.If that were the only problem, it would be bad enough. But on top of this headwind, Hormel has also been dealing with the impact of avian flu, a slow business rebound in China following COVID-related closures, and weakness in the nut category that has occurred at roughly the same time that Hormel acquired the Planter's brand.Story continuesAt the end of the day, none of these issues are individually terrible. But together, they have left investors questioning Hormel's ability to grow over the longer term.HRL ChartGreen shoots at HormelHormel's stock jumped after it reported fiscal first-quarter 2024 earnings because it contained a very early sign of improvement. Specifically, volume in the retail segment rose 2%. To be fair, net sales still dropped 2%, so it wasn't a total win. However, the volume increase suggests that consumers are finally starting to return to the company's brands.Furthermore, volume was strong in the other two segments. Food service volume was up 8% in the quarter, and foreign volume rose 11%. Overall, volume for Hormel increased 4%. That's a major reversal from the drop of 0.4% in Q4 of fiscal 2023.This is just a single quarter, of course, so you should be careful about the long-term conclusions you draw from it. However, management stated that it is "reaffirming its net sales growth outlook of 1% to 3%, which assumes volume growth in key categories.""Volume growth in key categories" isn't perhaps as strong a statement as long-term investors might like. But it does hint that Hormel sees a light at the end of the tunnel. And the fiscal first-quarter volume numbers confirm that the company continues to move toward the light.Watch for more positive resultsNo business moves in a straight line. A sine curve pattern is the norm. Hormel has been suffering through the trough of the curve. Eventually, this should pass, and when it does, Wall Street will likely reward the stock with a higher valuation.The company is not there yet, but the fiscal Q1 showing suggests that things may be starting to get better. Investors should watch the next few quarters very closely. And if you don't own this Dividend King, you might be interested to know that the 3.3% dividend yield remains near the highest levels the stock has ever seen.Even if the turnaround takes longer than hoped, it might be worth buying the shares while they appear to be historically cheap.Should you invest $1,000 in Hormel Foods right now?Before you buy stock in Hormel Foods, consider this:The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Hormel Foods wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*.See the 10 stocks*Stock Advisor returns as of March 8, 2024Reuben Gregg Brewer has positions in Hormel Foods. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.Hormel Foods Just Reported a Major Turnaround. Here's What Investors Should Know was originally published by The Motley Fool

Motley Fool

Hormel Foods Just Reported a Major Turnaround. Here's What Investors Should Know

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hormel-foods-just-reported-major-140700196.html

53a6c776-817e-3020-ac1c-bae7776e51d0

HSIC

Wall Street analysts forecast that Henry Schein (HSIC) will report quarterly earnings of $0.71 per share in its upcoming release, pointing to a year-over-year decline of 41.3%. It is anticipated that revenues will amount to $3.08 billion, exhibiting a decline of 8.7% compared to the year-ago quarter.Over the past 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged. This demonstrates the covering analysts' collective reassessment of their initial projections during this period.Prior to a company's earnings announcement, it is crucial to consider revisions to earnings estimates. This serves as a significant indicator for predicting potential investor actions regarding the stock. Empirical research has consistently demonstrated a robust correlation between trends in earnings estimate revision and the short-term price performance of a stock.While investors typically use consensus earnings and revenue estimates as a yardstick to evaluate the company's quarterly performance, scrutinizing analysts' projections for some of the company's key metrics can offer a more comprehensive perspective.With that in mind, let's delve into the average projections of some Henry Schein metrics that are commonly tracked and projected by analysts on Wall Street.The consensus among analysts is that 'Net Sales- Healthcare Distribution - Global' will reach $2.88 billion. The estimate suggests a change of -9.7% year over year.According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Net Sales- Healthcare Distribution- Medical- Global' should come in at $1.02 billion. The estimate points to a change of -13% from the year-ago quarter.The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Net Sales- Healthcare Distribution- Dental- Global' of $1.85 billion. The estimate suggests a change of -7.7% year over year.The consensus estimate for 'Net Sales- Technology and value-added services- Global' stands at $197.82 million. The estimate indicates a change of +5.8% from the prior-year quarter.Story continuesAnalysts' assessment points toward 'Net Sales- Healthcare Distribution- International' reaching $724.73 million. The estimate points to a change of -4.1% from the year-ago quarter.It is projected by analysts that the 'Dental- North America' will reach $1.13 billion. The estimate indicates a change of -10.8% from the prior-year quarter.Analysts predict that the 'Dental- International' will reach $707.70 million. The estimate points to a change of -4.2% from the year-ago quarter.The average prediction of analysts places 'Medical- North America' at $988.73 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -14.8%.Analysts expect 'Medical- International' to come in at $18.49 million. The estimate suggests a change of +8.8% year over year.Analysts forecast 'Total Health Care Distribution- North America' to reach $2.12 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -12.7%.Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Technology and value-added services- North America' should arrive at $174.09 million. The estimate indicates a change of +6.2% from the prior-year quarter.The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Technology and value-added services- International' will likely reach $28.93 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +25.8%.View all Key Company Metrics for Henry Schein here>>>Shares of Henry Schein have demonstrated returns of +2.5% over the past month compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +3.1% change. With a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell), HSIC is expected to lag the overall market performance in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>>Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHenry Schein, Inc. (HSIC) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Seeking Clues to Henry Schein (HSIC) Q4 Earnings? A Peek Into Wall Street Projections for Key Metrics

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/seeking-clues-henry-schein-hsic-141524182.html

48f520c3-c78b-3b2a-b046-bd6ffcdac0cd

HSIC

Key InsightsThe projected fair value for Henry Schein is US$142 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to EquityHenry Schein's US$75.09 share price signals that it might be 47% undervaluedOur fair value estimate is 88% higher than Henry Schein's analyst price target of US$75.41How far off is Henry Schein, Inc. (NASDAQ:HSIC) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example!We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model. Check out our latest analysis for Henry Schein What's The Estimated Valuation?We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:Story continues10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast2024202520262027202820292030203120322033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$646.8mUS$708.4mUS$719.2mUS$731.8mUS$745.8mUS$760.9mUS$776.9mUS$793.7mUS$811.1mUS$829.2mGrowth Rate Estimate SourceAnalyst x5Analyst x5Est @ 1.52%Est @ 1.75%Est @ 1.91%Est @ 2.03%Est @ 2.11%Est @ 2.16%Est @ 2.20%Est @ 2.23% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 6.0% US$610US$631US$604US$580US$558US$537US$518US$499US$481US$464("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$5.5bWe now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.3%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 6.0%.Terminal Value (TV)= FCF2033 × (1 + g) ÷ (r – g) = US$829m× (1 + 2.3%) ÷ (6.0%– 2.3%) = US$23bPresent Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$23b÷ ( 1 + 6.0%)10= US$13bThe total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is US$18b. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of US$75.1, the company appears quite undervalued at a 47% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.dcfThe AssumptionsNow the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Henry Schein as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.0%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.SWOT Analysis for Henry ScheinStrengthDebt is not viewed as a risk.WeaknessEarnings declined over the past year.OpportunityAnnual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the American market.Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.ThreatAnnual revenue is forecast to grow slower than the American market.Next Steps:Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. Why is the intrinsic value higher than the current share price? For Henry Schein, we've put together three pertinent factors you should further research:Risks: Case in point, we've spotted 3 warning signs for Henry Schein you should be aware of.Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for HSIC's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors.Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the NASDAQGS every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

Are Investors Undervaluing Henry Schein, Inc. (NASDAQ:HSIC) By 47%?

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/investors-undervaluing-henry-schein-inc-170529534.html

072964d3-c308-326d-8e30-88e746e33c59

HSIC

Director Philip Laskawy has recently sold 4,278 shares of Henry Schein Inc (NASDAQ:HSIC), according to a SEC Filing dated 2024-03-05. This transaction has been part of a series of sales by the insider over the past year, with a total of 4,278 shares sold and no shares purchased during this period.Warning! GuruFocus has detected 4 Warning Sign with HSIC.Henry Schein Inc is a global provider of healthcare products and services to office-based dental and medical practitioners. The company offers a comprehensive selection of products and services, including dental equipment and supplies, medical supplies, and veterinary products, as well as software and technology solutions.The insider transaction history for Henry Schein Inc shows a pattern of insider sales over the past year, with 8 insider sells and no insider buys recorded. This could suggest a trend among insiders that may be of interest to investors.On the day of the insider's recent sale, shares of Henry Schein Inc were trading at $76.29, giving the company a market cap of $9.68 billion. The price-earnings ratio of the stock stands at 23.84, which is above both the industry median of 16.21 and the company's historical median price-earnings ratio.According to the GuruFocus Value assessment, with a share price of $76.29 and a GF Value of $84.11, Henry Schein Inc has a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.91. This indicates that the stock is considered Modestly Undervalued based on its GF Value.The GF Value is determined by considering historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the company's past performance, and future business performance estimates provided by Morningstar analysts.Insider Sell: Director Philip Laskawy Sells 4,278 Shares of Henry Schein Inc (HSIC)Insider Sell: Director Philip Laskawy Sells 4,278 Shares of Henry Schein Inc (HSIC)This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

GuruFocus.com

Insider Sell: Director Philip Laskawy Sells 4,278 Shares of Henry Schein Inc (HSIC)

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/insider-sell-director-philip-laskawy-045547832.html

f0dee618-fcb9-3151-adf1-f11512491b57

HSIC

In this article, we will be taking a look at the 6 cheaper alternatives to braces for kids and adults. If you do not want to learn about the global orthodontics market, head straight to the 3 Cheaper Alternatives to Braces for Kids and Adults.In orthodontic care, pursuing a straighter smile doesn't always have to come with a hefty price tag. For kids and adults seeking to correct dental alignment, there exists a range of cost-effective alternatives to traditional braces. From removable aligners to innovative at-home kits, these options offer affordability without compromising effectiveness. Exploring these cheaper alternatives allows individuals to achieve the confident, radiant smiles they desire without breaking the bank. Orthodontics Market Overview The global orthodontics market expansion is attributed to several factors, including technological advancements, increasing aesthetic preferences, and a growing understanding of oral health's importance. Notably, the market is segmented into instruments and supplies, with clear aligners driving demand in the supplies segment. Some notable advancements include products like Ultima Hook by Ormco Corporation and the Eon Aligner ecosystem by Eon Dental. The orthodontics market is leading globally in North America due to advanced healthcare facilities and culture emphasizing dental hygiene. In Europe, the market is expected to reach $8.76 billion by 2030, and $8.21 billion in the Asia Pacific region by 2030. The largest market share in 2023 is anticipated to come from the removable braces segment due to factors like malocclusion prevalence and lower costs compared to fixed braces. In the US, the orthodontics market generated a revenue of USD 3.09 billion in 2022, focusing on clear braces and rising awareness of dental care. Europe accounted for a significant market share in 2022, driven by improved healthcare facilities and technologically advanced products. Story continuesInvisalign, a popular transparent aligner system, has contributed significantly to the rising demand for orthodontic supplies globally. Leading companies in the dental products and implants sector include Henry Schein, Inc. (NASDAQ: HSIC), Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALGN), and Straumann (SWX: STMN). Henry Schein dominates 28.6% of the dental equipment market share, while Align Technology holds 80-85% of the clear aligner market share due to increased demand for aesthetic orthodontic solutions. Straumann commands about 24% of the global dentistry market share. Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALGN) is renowned for its innovative contributions to orthodontics, particularly with the Invisalign system, which is revolutionizing treatment efficiency and patient outcomes. Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALGN)'s future strategies focus on digital innovation, with a pledge of $1 million to support orthodontic research in the United States. Henry Schein, Inc. (NASDAQ: HSIC), a global healthcare leader since 1932, continues prioritizing orthodontics with a strong focus on innovation, education, and social responsibility through its Henry Schein Cares initiative. Embracing the latest trends, the company has introduced Minimum Touch OrthodonticsSM, facilitating virtual visits and supporting practice growth. Looking ahead, upcoming trends emphasize innovation in appliances, treatments, and digital workflows. Regarding financial performance, Q4 2023 witnessed $3.1 billion in net sales, marking a 2.3% increase from the previous year, with predicted sales growth for 2023 ranging from 1% to 3%. Henry Schein, Inc. (NASDAQ: HSIC) has been recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the 13th consecutive year, underscoring its commitment to ethical business practices. The dental sector, including orthodontics, has shown recovery post-pandemic, with spending on dental services reaching about $113.4 billion in August 2022, representing a 6.4% increase from the previous year. Within the broader dental care industry, the dental implant market is expected to reach $9.62 billion by 2030, with clear aligners also gaining popularity due to growing aesthetic awareness. As smiles are increasingly considered a vital social asset, dental care companies like Align Technology, Inc. are poised for growth. Bridging Global Disparities in Oral Health Through Dental Innovations Oral health issues affect a staggering 3.5 billion individuals worldwide, with 2 billion grappling with cavities in permanent teeth and 514 million children enduring cavities in their primary teeth. This challenge is exacerbated by limited access to oral healthcare services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In 2019, Pakistan confronted a severe shortage of dentists, with one available for every 5,000 people in urban areas and none in rural regions like Tharparkar, home to 200,000 individuals. In contrast, Denmark enjoys exemplary dental health despite a relatively low dentist-to-population ratio. Conversely, Ethiopia needs help with a meagre 0.02 dentists per 10,000 people.  The Philippines faces high rates of dental decay, especially among children. Even in nations renowned for advanced healthcare like the United States, there exists a shortage of dentists, with states like California and Missouri notably underserved. Addressing these disparities is paramount in alleviating the global burden of oral diseases. Dental implants emerge as a resilient solution for individuals encountering challenges related to dentures or bridges. Crafted from metal posts, they provide a steadfast foundation for artificial teeth, reinstating aesthetics and functionality. Research indicates commendable success rates for dental implants, hovering around 95% in the lower jaw and approximately 90% in the upper jaw, with a slightly lower success rate due to diminished bone density. In 2023, the cost of dental implants varies based on complexity. For instance, single-tooth implants typically cost $3,000 to $4,500, encompassing examinations, imaging, extractions, if necessary, and crown fabrication. Full-mouth replacements, influenced by CT scans and bone grafts, may cost between $60,000 and $90,000. Alternative solutions like implant-supported bridges offer cost-effective options for replacing multiple teeth. Full-mouth replacement alternatives encompass individual tooth implants, albeit pricier, and implant-supported dentures such as the All-on-4 method, with costs ranging from $24,000 to $50,000. Location, procedures, and materials utilized significantly influence these costs. Importance and Impact of Dental Insurance Coverage on Oral Health and Financial Security Dental insurance coverage plays a pivotal role in ensuring access to oral healthcare, thus impacting both overall wellness and financial security. Dental insurance is widely acknowledged for its role in promoting oral health and overall well-being.  Dental insurance coverage varies across age groups and income levels in the United States. For children aged 0-18, approximately 53% have private dental benefits, 38% have dental benefits through Medicaid or CHIP, and 9% do not have dental benefits. Similarly, for adults aged 19-64, 61.4% have private dental benefits, 15.7% have dental benefits through Medicaid, and 22.8% do not.  As of 2019, 70.3% of persons under 65 had dental insurance in the US. However, challenges persist, with an estimated 68.5 million adults needing dental insurance and additional household members facing potential loss of coverage. Financial aspects related to dental insurance coverage include significant out-of-pocket costs, with 40% of total US spending on dental care being out of pocket in 2014.  Lower-income individuals are particularly affected by cost barriers to accessing dental care. Moreover, many adults covered by Medicaid and Medicare lack comprehensive dental coverage, leading to disparities in access to oral healthcare services. The importance of dental insurance is underscored by its impact on overall health, emotional well-being, and financial benefits such as cost savings.  Efforts to increase broad dental coverage in Medicaid and Medicare are essential to address disparities and ensure optimal oral health outcomes for all individuals. Furthermore, understanding the financial statistics related to dental care is crucial. In 2021, the national average dental plan premium for all commercial products was $29.63 per monthly member, significantly lower than medical premiums. Dental premiums typically cover preventive services at 100%, basic procedures at 80%, and significant procedures at 50%, with an annual limit averaging $1,500 - $2,500. 6 Cheaper Alternatives to Braces for Kids and AdultsOur Methodology For our methodology, we have ranked cheaper alternative options to braces for kids and adults based on their average prices, listing them in ascending order from the most affordable to the most expensive. Here is our list of the 6 cheaper alternatives to braces for kids and adults. 6. Lingual Braces Average cost: $7500 Lingual braces offer a discreet and effective orthodontic treatment option by being placed behind the teeth, making them nearly invisible. Their popularity is increasing in the US, particularly among those seeking less noticeable treatment, making them stand among best braces for crowded teeth. They successfully correct various orthodontic issues and have a comparable success rate to traditional braces. However, due to their customized nature and specialized placement, they can be slightly more expensive, ranging from $8,000 to $10,000 for a full treatment course.  5. Invisalign Average cost: $6000 Invisalign has become a popular alternative to traditional braces due to its inconspicuous nature and comparable cost, ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 in the US. Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign to the same extent as braces, and payment plans are often available. While both are effective, Invisalign is best for minor orthodontic issues like gaps or crowded teeth. It may be less effective for severe cases but is particularly useful for mild to moderate overbites. Invisalign treatment typically lasts 12 months, shorter than braces, and offers better oral hygiene as aligners are removable, although consistent wear is essential for effectiveness. 4. Ceramic braces Average cost: $5500 Ceramic braces are a popular and slightly more expensive alternative to traditional metal braces, with costs ranging between 10 and 25 percent higher. Due to their tooth-colored appearance, they provide a discreet option, making them practical for treating various orthodontic issues. Approximately 4 million people in the US wear braces, many opting for cost-effective alternatives like ceramic braces. Regular cleaning and dietary precautions are necessary to maintain their appearance and effectiveness. Ceramic braces cost between $4,000 and $7,000, making them a popular choice for those seeking orthodontic treatment and one of the cheaper alternatives to braces for kids and adults.Click to see and continue reading the 3 Cheaper Alternatives to Braces for Kids and Adults.Suggested Articles:Top 15 Countries for Dental Tourism.15 Best Dental Insurance Companies Heading into 2024.15 Best Countries for Dental Implants.Disclosure. None: The 6 Cheaper Alternatives to Braces for Kids and Adults is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

6 Cheaper Alternatives to Braces for Kids and Adults

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/6-cheaper-alternatives-braces-kids-140847881.html

5f4f9f56-aa80-345a-baa2-28eec61fdcfd

HST

ParticipantsJaime N. Marcus; SVP of IR; Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc.James F. Risoleo; President, CEO & Director; Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc.Sourav Ghosh; Executive VP & CFO; Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc.Aryeh Klein; United States Real Estate Analyst; BMO Capital Markets Equity ResearchChris Jon Woronka; Research Analyst; Deutsche Bank AG, Research DivisionDavid Brian Katz; MD and Senior Equity Analyst of Gaming, Lodging & Leisure; Jefferies LLC, Research DivisionDori Lynn Kesten; Senior Analyst; Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, Research DivisionDuane Thomas Pfennigwerth; Senior MD; Evercore ISI Institutional Equities, Research DivisionMichael Joseph Bellisario; Director and Senior Research Analyst; Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated, Research DivisionRobin Margaret Farley; MD and Research Analyst; UBS Investment Bank, Research DivisionShaun Clisby Kelley; MD in Americas Equity Research & Research Analyst; BofA Securities, Research DivisionSmedes Rose; Director & Senior Analyst; Citigroup Inc., Research DivisionStephen White Grambling; Equity Analyst; Morgan Stanley, Research DivisionWilliam Andrew Crow; Analyst; Raymond James & Associates, Inc., Research DivisionPresentationOperatorGood morning, and welcome to the Host Hotels & Resorts Fourth Quarter 2023 Earnings Conference Call. Today's conference is being recorded.At this time, I'd like to turn the call over to Jaime Marcus, Senior Vice President of Investor Relations.Jaime N. MarcusThank you, and good morning, everyone. Before we begin, please note that many of the comments made today are considered to be forward-looking statements under federal securities laws. As described in our filings with the SEC, these statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause future results to differ from those expressed, and we are not obligated to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements.In addition, on today's call, we will discuss certain non-GAAP financial information, such as FFO, adjusted EBITDAre and comparable hotel level results. You can find this information together with reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP information in yesterday's earnings press release and our 8-K filed with the SEC and in the supplemental financial information on our website at hosthotels.com.With me on today's call are James Risoleo, President and Chief Executive Officer; and Sourav Ghosh, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. With that, I would like to turn the call over to Jim.Story continuesJames F. RisoleoThank you, Jaime, and thanks to everyone for joining us this morning. 2023 was a terrific year for Host on several fronts. First, we delivered strong operational improvements, driven largely by occupancy increases and continued rate growth. Second, we completed the work on the 3 strategic objectives we established in 2021 and we will continue to realize the benefits of our ongoing efforts well into the future. Third, we returned significant capital to stockholders in the form of dividends and share repurchases, continue to successfully allocate capital through reinvestment in our portfolio and announced an agreement with Hyatt to complete transformational renovations at 6 properties in our portfolio.Lastly, we maintained an investment grade balance sheet and continue to position Host to capitalize on the significant growth opportunities we see in the lodging space including potential acquisition opportunities.Turning to our results. We finished 2023 above the midpoint of our full year guidance range. We delivered adjusted EBITDAre of $1.629 billion and adjusted FFO per share of $1.92. Comparable hotel total RevPAR grew 8.3% and comparable hotel RevPAR grew 8.1% compared to 2022. Notably, comparable hotel EBITDA margin was 60 basis points ahead of 2019 due in large part to our efforts to redefine the hotel operating model with our managers.During the fourth quarter, we delivered adjusted EBITDAre of $378 million and adjusted FFO per share of $0.44, which includes $26 million of business interruption proceeds from Hurricane Ian. Comparable hotel RevPAR improved 1.5% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022. Our RevPAR performance for the quarter was driven by an increase in both occupancy and rate.Despite an estimated 30 basis point impact from the wildfires in Maui, our fourth quarter comparable hotel EBITDA margin of 28.1% was flat to 2019. This marks the seventh consecutive quarter since the onset of the pandemic that we have achieved total RevPAR, RevPAR comparable hotel EBITDA and margins at or above 2019 levels. I will say that one more time. We have delivered operating metrics at or above 2019 levels for nearly 2 years.As a reminder, the operational results discussed today refer to our comparable hotel portfolio in 2023, which excludes Hyatt Coconut Point and Ritz-Carlton, Naples. In 2024, our comparable hotel portfolio only excludes Ritz-Carlton Naples. During the fourth quarter, our portfolio results were once again impacted by the evolving nature of demand at our 3 resorts on Maui. We estimate that the Maui wildfires impacted fourth quarter comparable hotel RevPAR by 130 basis points, comparable hotel total RevPAR by 150 basis points, comparable hotel EBITDA by $9 million and comparable hotel EBITDA margin by 30 basis points.For the full year, we estimate that Maui impacted our comparable hotel RevPAR by 50 basis points, comparable hotel total RevPAR by 70 basis points, comparable hotel EBITDA by $13 million and comparable hotel EBITDA margin by 10 basis points. Including our joint venture timeshare, we estimate that Maui impacted adjusted EBITDAre by $15 million in the fourth quarter and $22 million for the full year.Our risk management team is continuing to engage with our insurers about potential business interruption coverage at Maui and the timing and amounts of any potential proceeds are not yet known.Shifting to another market that remains top of mind. San Francisco results showed meaningful year-over-year improvement in the fourth quarter. RevPAR was up 10%, driven by both rate and occupancy and F&B revenue was up 15%. Group business is driving the strong results with group room revenue up 36% for the fourth quarter compared to last year as our properties have shifted their focus to in-house groups until the citywide calendar improves in 2025.We have seen positive trends from 2023 continuing in the first quarter of 2024 with conventions driving weekday demand. In fact, January was the best month in the history of the San Francisco Marriott Marquis with total revenue and EBITDA setting all-time records.Briefly, looking at out-of-room spend in the fourth quarter. Comparable hotel food and beverage and other revenues were down slightly due to impacts from Maui. We estimate that Maui impacted fourth quarter F&B and other revenues by 60 basis points and 540 basis points, respectively. Encouragingly, the out-of-room revenue trends we have seen post-pandemic remain elevated for the rest of our portfolio.In addition to driving strong RevPAR growth and operating improvements across the business, we continue to be recognized as a global leader in corporate responsibility over the course of 2023. We introduced new 2030 environmental and social targets, which are aligned with our vision of becoming a net positive company by 2050, incorporate the progress made toward our prior goals and are more reflective of our current portfolio by updating our baseline to 2019. These environmental and social targets will enable our team to focus on and measure our progress over the long term.Our 2030 environmental targets are in their third generation and put hosts on a linear path to net zero operations by 2040, leaving 10 years to get to net positive by 2050. We now have 14 properties with lead certification and projects in the pipeline at 19 properties. In addition, we are the only lodging REIT to have green building certifications linked to our sustainable financings.In this year's corporate responsibility report, we highlighted our asset level climate risk assessment across 3 near-term climate perils, including flood, wind and wildfire and 3 long-term perils, including heat, cold and water stress. Based on the results, we have identified assets with elevated climate risk and their corresponding EBITDA contributions, which allows us to prioritize capital investments and resilience and better underwrite potential acquisitions.Our 2030 social targets are in their second generation and now include 2 responsible supply chain targets around supplier diversity and responsible sourcing and one new community impact target. As an employer of choice, we aim to lead our industry by integrating diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging best practices into all aspects of our culture.Turning to capital allocation. We repurchased 1.9 million shares at an average price of $16.50 per share in the fourth quarter. For the full year, we repurchased 11.4 million shares at an average price of $15.93 per share for a total of $181 million. We have approximately $792 million of remaining capacity under the repurchase program.In the fourth quarter, we declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share, an 11% increase over the prior quarter. We also announced a special dividend of $0.25 per share bringing the total dividends declared for the year to $0.90 per share.In total, we returned over $700 million of capital to shareholders in 2023. Additionally, in the fourth quarter, the buyer of the Sheraton New York repaid the $250 million seller financing loan we provided to effectuate the disposition. Our size, scale and balance sheet have allowed us to provide seller financing on 3 recent dispositions at a time when debt capital was scarce, further demonstrating that our fortress balance sheet and unparalleled access to capital creates unique opportunities and substantial value for shareholders. Turning back to fourth quarter operations. Our overall business mix results were skewed by Maui as leisure transient demand decreased and group demand increased driven by recovery and relief groups. Outside of this temporary demand shift, business mix results were as expected. Group led to growth with nearly 1 million group room nights sold in the fourth quarter, bringing our total group nights sold for 2023 to 4.1 million or 112% of comparable 2022 actual group room nights.Business transient continued its gradual improvement with 7% revenue growth for the quarter and leisure remaining strong with transient rates at our resorts up 58% to 2019, including our 3 Maui resorts. As we look at the current backdrop for our business, we are optimistic about 2024 for several reasons. First, macroeconomic sentiment is incrementally more positive with consensus expectations of a soft landing. Second, supply levels and anticipated growth in supply is at historically low levels in our markets and chain skills. Third, we expect tailwinds from increased airline capacity and continued improvement in the international inbound demand imbalance.And lastly, the transactions market is expected to pick up as improved macroeconomic sentiment allows for more visibility on operating performance and the market is expecting that we will see rate cuts later this year. As we consider these factors, we believe Host is best positioned to capitalize on acquisition opportunities with $2.9 billion of total available liquidity and net leverage of 1.9x. In addition, we have completed 24 transformational renovations in 4 development ROI projects, which we believe, provide meaningful tailwinds for our portfolio.Looking at results to date of the 10 hotels that have stabilized post-renovation operations, the average RevPAR index share gain is 8.2 points, which is well in excess of our targeted gain of 3 to 5 points. We are also continuing to reinvest in our portfolio with additional comprehensive renovations and resiliency investments underway and we do not expect meaningful disruption this year.And most importantly, we believe the diverse demand drivers in our portfolio leave us well positioned for top line growth. Sourav will discuss more operational detail and our 2024 outlook in a few minutes.Turning to portfolio reinvestment. In 2023, we invested nearly $650 million in capital expenditures at our properties, completing renovations to approximately 3,500 guest rooms, 111,000 square feet of meeting space and approximately 110,000 square feet of public space. In addition, we substantially completed property restorations following Hurricane Ian.In 2024, our capital expenditure guidance range is $500 million to $605 million, which reflects approximately $225 million to $280 million of investment for redevelopment, repositioning and ROI projects. Within the Hyatt transformational capital program, we have already started renovations at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta and the Grand Hyatt Washington, which we expect to complete in the first half of 2025. We will also start transformational renovations at the Hyatt Regency Reston in the fourth quarter of this year.Other major ROI projects include the completion of renovations at the Hilton Singer Island Resort and the construction of the Phoenician Canyon Suites Villas expansion. In addition to our capital expenditure investment, we expect to spend $50 million to $70 million on the luxury condominium development at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resorts this year. We expect to benefit from approximately $9 million of operating profit guarantees related to the Hyatt transformational capital program, which will offset the expected revenue disruption at those properties for 2024.We are extremely proud of our operational and financial performance in 2023 and the iconic portfolio and balance sheet we have built and maintained. Our people, our platform and our portfolio have allowed us to create meaningful shareholder value, and we are confident in the significant opportunities ahead for continued growth and value creation in 2024. With that, I will now turn the call over to Sourav.Sourav GhoshThank you, Jim, and good morning, everyone. Building on Jim's comments, I will go into detail on our fourth quarter operations, full year 2024 guidance and our balance sheet. Starting with business mix. Overall transient revenue was down 5% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022, driven by the evolving nature of demand in Maui. We estimate that Maui had a 590 basis point impact to transient revenue, which was evenly split between demand and rate. We were encouraged that transient rate at our resorts grew 2% above last year's tough comparisons despite the demand impact from Maui and renovation disruption.Looking ahead to spring break. Transient revenue pace is up for our portfolio compared to the same time last year, driven by occupancy and rate growth at our resorts. Outside of Maui, resort transient revenue pace for spring break is up 20%. Business transient revenue was up over 7% to the fourth quarter of 2022, driven by both rate and demand growth at our downtown properties. Business transient demand continued its slow and steady recovery. Room nights at our downtown properties were down 15% in the fourth quarter compared to 2019, which is the smallest gap to 2019 post-pandemic. For the full year, business transient demand grew 12% over 2022. In 2024, we expect further demand growth driven by large corporates alongside rate growth in the mid-single digits.Turning to group. 2023 was the year of group and convention hotel recovery. For the full year, group room revenues increased 21% over last year and room night volume recovered to 95% of 2019 levels. It is worth noting that our group results were positively skewed by disaster and recovery bookings in Maui. Excluding Maui, group room night volume recovered to 94% of 2019 levels.Group room revenue exceeded 2022 by 13% in the fourth quarter, driven by an increase in both rate and room nights and we estimate roughly half of that growth can be attributed to recovery and relief groups on Maui. Outside of Maui, hotels in San Francisco, Boston, D.C. and Seattle contributed to the group room night increase. Notably, November's APAC conference in San Francisco drove results with an estimated 41,000 citywide group room nights.Looking ahead to 2024, we have 3.1 million definite group room nights on the books, representing a 16% increase since the third quarter, putting us ahead of where we were this time last year. Total group revenue pace is up 10% over the same time last year, driven by rate, room nights and banquets. We continue to be encouraged by the ongoing strength of group business as evidenced by strong pace, lengthening booking windows and double-digit citywide room night pace in key markets such as New Orleans, San Diego, Seattle and D.C.Shifting gears to margins. As expected, margin declines year-over-year were driven by increases in wages and benefits, fixed expenses as well as moderating attrition and cancellation revenues and impacts from Maui. Despite these headwinds, full year 2023 comparable hotel EBITDA margin was 30.1%, representing a 60 basis point increase over 2019. Our ability to achieve this margin expansion is a result of our efforts to redefine the operating model and is indicative of our strong execution, particularly when considering the total comparable hotel expenses have only grown 7% in the last 4 years and occupancy is still 8 points below 2019. Turning to our outlook for 2024. The midpoint of our guidance contemplates a stable operating environment with continued improvement in group business, a continued gradual recovery in business transient, steady leisure trends in demand and the continued evolution of demand on Maui as the island recovers from the recent wildfires. At the low end, we have assumed slower group pickup and softer leisure transient and at the high end, we have assumed a faster recovery at our Maui Resorts and increased group pickup. For full year 2024, we anticipate comparable hotel RevPAR growth of between 2.5% and 5.5% over 2023. We expect comparable hotel EBITDA margins to be down 120 basis points year-over-year at the low end of our guidance to down 40 basis points at the high end. Notably, we expect margins to be down only 20 basis points at the midpoint versus 2019 despite a 50 basis point margin impact from Maui.In terms of RevPAR growth cadence for the year, we expect comparable hotel RevPAR growth to be in the low single digits in the first half of the year due to tough comparisons to 2023, which saw a surge in recovery of downtown markets driven by improving group business and elevated leisure demand. We expect mid-single-digit comparable hotel RevPAR growth in the second half of the year as a result of strong group booking pace, less renovation disruption compared to the second half of 2023 and the diminishing impact of the Maui wildfires.For January, we expect comparable hotel RevPAR to be approximately $187, a 1.4% improvement over 2023. At the midpoint of our guidance range, we anticipate comparable hotel RevPAR growth of 4% compared to 2023 and a comparable hotel EBITDA margin of 29.3%, which is 80 basis points below 2023.As we think about bridging our 2023 results to 2024, we estimate that Maui is impacting comparable hotel RevPAR by 100 basis points and comparable hotel EBITDA margin by 50 basis points. We also expect a 15 basis point impact to margins from moderating attrition and cancellation revenues and a 45 basis point impact from property taxes and insurance. In 2024, we expect wage rates to increase approximately 5%. For context, in 2023, wages and benefits comprise approximately 50% of our total comparable hotel expenses and attrition and cancellation revenues were $75 million, which is approximately 50% higher than 2019. Our 2024 full year adjusted EBITDAre midpoint is $1.635 billion. This includes an expected additional $10 million from business interruption proceeds related to Hurricane Ian and an estimated $60 million contribution from operations at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples, which is excluded from our comparable hotel set in 2024. It is important to note that we have not included any assumption for business interruption proceeds from the Maui wildfires in our 2024 guidance.Turning to our balance sheet and liquidity position. Our weighted average maturity is 4.2 years at a weighted average interest rate of 4.5%. We have a balanced maturity schedule with our next maturity of $400 million coming due in April 2024. We are closely monitoring the debt capital markets, and we believe our balance sheet provides us with optionality and flexibility.As Jim noted, we have $2.9 billion in total available liquidity, which includes $217 million of FF&E reserves and full availability of our $1.5 billion credit facility. We ended 2023 at 1.9x net leverage. And since our last call, Fitch upgraded the company's issuer rating from BBB- to BBB with a stable outlook, returning Host to its pre-pandemic rating level. Wrapping up, in January, we paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share and a special dividend of $0.25 returning to our pre-pandemic quarterly payout level. The Board of Directors authorized a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 on our common stock to be paid on April 15, 2024, to stockholders of record on March 28, 2024. As always, future dividends are subject to approval by the company's Board of Directors.To conclude, we are proud of our achievements in 2023, and we believe our best-in-class portfolio and balance sheet leave us uniquely positioned to capitalize on opportunities for growth in the future. With that, we would be happy to take your questions. To ensure we have time to address as many questions as possible, please limit yourself to one question.Question and Answer SessionOperator(Operator Instructions) Your first question is coming from Shaun Kelley from Bank of America.Shaun Clisby KelleyJim or Sourav, maybe we could just start off with a little color on the M&A environment. You alluded to it in your prepared remarks a little bit. And obviously, we know the strength of the balance sheet. But coming out of the ALIS Conference, how are conversations going? And maybe you could just lead us a little bit on how you can really tap in using your balance sheet strength to unlock some opportunities that others may not have in front of them at this point in the market?James F. RisoleoSure, Shaun. This is Jim. I'm happy to take that question. I think our fortress balance sheet really differentiates Host in the space. Sitting here today at 1.9x leverage with $2.9 billion of liquidity is a testament to the fact that we can do it all as we have shown, and that's how we intend to approach 2024. We want to be net acquirers, we want to continue to elevate the EBITDA growth profile of the portfolio in 2024 through acquisitions but also through continued reinvestment in the portfolio as we've done over the past few years.You may recall that we acquired $1.6 billion of assets at the beginning of the recovery in 2021 and another $315 million in 2022 and over that time frame, we've invested from '22 through '23, we've invested over $2.1 billion in our assets. So our 16 properties under the MTCP, as we noted in our prepared remarks, are significantly outperforming our underwriting expectations of 3 to 5 points in yield index, the properties that have stabilized post operations are up to 8 points -- or up to 10 points, I'm sorry, 8 to 10 points, and we continue to do the same with the HTCP program in 2024 as a start. Now with respect to the acquisition market, frankly, there just aren't a lot of properties that are currently listed for sale, certainly not assets that would interest Host. But that's really not slowing us down at all. We are talking to our competitors in the industry, our friends in the industry and others to try to kick deals loose that are Host-type assets. We are leaning on our relationships. We're leaning on our reputation, on our ability to close deals all cash that really gives us a very meaningful competitive advantage. And we believe this is the year to get the balance sheet to work.So we're working very hard to find the right source of assets to add to the portfolio. The assets that we like are those that have diverse demand drivers with a combination of group, business transient and leisure and we want to continue the same. But at the end of the day, it really is everything that we do is to elevate the EBITDA growth profile of the portfolio.Now I said that there aren't a lot of assets on the market today. But I believe and we believe as a team here at Host that under the assumption that the Fed is going to start loosening interest rates in the second half of this year that will spark sellers to bring properties to market, and it's going to also for competition for those assets. So our point of view is, we have the balance sheet. We can do it all. We want to get out there, we want to get ahead of the pack. And I hope over the course of the next several months that we're going to be able to tell you that we've been an acquirer early in 2024.OperatorYour next question is coming from Smedes Rose from Citi.Smedes RoseI was wondering if you could just talk a little bit more about -- on the group bookings side. It sounds like part of your improvements you're seeing are driven by kind of large citywide conventions and the return is maybe sort of association business. But could you talk about maybe just what you're seeing just more on the corporate side larger meeting, smaller meetings, more frequent meetings. Just any kind of detail around that would be interesting.Sourav GhoshSure Smedes. We're doing really well on the corporate group business, and that remains strong. So while association is certainly coming back in one of your markets, particularly with citywide coming back toward 2024 in a meaningful way. The 2024 citywide room night pace is around 90% of 2019 actuals and quite a few cities are pacing ahead. But corporate group continues to be strong. And what's also important to note is their spend on banquet and catering continues to be strong.So the catering contribution at our hotels has not declined year-over-year and we are keeping pace both from a demand perspective, but as well as from a rate perspective. Right now, our group pace from an ADR standpoint, is around 4%, and we are pacing ahead to last year by 3.4% in terms of room nights. And on a total revenue basis, it's 10% that we are pacing ahead year-over-year. So pretty meaningful. The markets, which are driving this for our portfolio specifically, the 3.1 million group room nights that we have on the book for 2024. They include San Diego, Orlando, D.C., San Francisco and San Antonio, those markets make up just over 50% of the 3.1 million that's already on the books. And in terms of citywide pace, what's pacing well is also San Diego, D.C., but also Seattle, New Orleans and Miami.OperatorYour next question is coming from Robin Farley from UBS.Robin Margaret FarleyJust circling back to your comments on potential acquisitions. I guess I'm surprised just given the maturities, CMBS maturities, some of which were pushed back in 2023 into 2024 that maybe there's not more kind of for sale in the first half of '24. So I guess what is your sense of kind of what's happening with those maturities? And then also, just curious what your current thoughts are on the type of assets location if there's been any change in terms of what Host would be looking for?James F. RisoleoSure, Robin. We track all the CMBS maturities, the CMBS loans outstanding and the maturities. This year, there's about $26 billion of full service loans that will be maturing. And I know that earlier in the pandemic, there was a lot of talk of distress. Frankly, we haven't seen it materialize, certainly not on assets or markets that would interest us. We'll continue to track it. There may be pressure as we get later into the year because one of the things that other hotel owners are going to have to deal with sooner or later is reinvesting in their portfolio.And as you know, as I mentioned earlier in my response, we have invested significant capital in our portfolio. So we're in a really great place to continue to gain yield index and continue to outperform going forward. So I think it's still TBD on distressed but we're certainly not counting on that. We're making it happen on our own by trying to capitalize on our relationships, our reputation and our balance sheet to be net acquirers this year.The types of assets and the types of markets, it's really -- it's -- there is nothing that's perspective per se, that's off the list. But we are always going to be thoughtful about maintaining geographic diversification, which has served us well. I think notwithstanding the tragedy in Maui, the geographic diversification of our portfolio still allowed us to achieve 8.1% RevPAR growth in 2023, notwithstanding a 50 basis point impact from the Maui wildfires.So we'll continue to look at assets where we can add value through our strong asset management and enterprise analytics capabilities, assets where we see ROI opportunities that haven't been completed by the current owner and new markets, we'll continue to look for resorts. We'll also continue to start looking at urban markets today because we've seen some good solid performance out of the urban market. So I think recovery is on the way. We feel good about the macro picture. There is visibility from an underwriting perspective. And let's all keep our fingers crossed at the soft landing that seems to be the consensus to say does come through.OperatorYour next question is coming from Bill Crow from Raymond James.William Andrew CrowMaybe for Sourav, a question about the kind of the tail of 2 halfs of the year and RevPAR growth in the low single digits in the first half and then accelerating up to I guess, what, 5%, 6%, 7% in the second half of the year to hit your numbers. Can you kind of compartmentalize how much tailwind you get from Maui? How much you get from renovation disruption? Perhaps Coconut Point is providing a lift given the challenges in that market last year. What can you tell us to give us kind of confidence in that outsized growth in the second half of the year?Sourav GhoshSure. So the first piece, I'll talk about the first half, the reason that is low single digits is because of the tough comps that we have, particularly given the Q1 performance in 2023. And remember, 2022 Q1 was impacted by Omicron. So we had a meaningful amount of growth in the first quarter of '23. And the first half, leisure did extremely well, as you might recall. So just tougher comps in the first half, that's why the low single digits.On the second half, what's really giving us confidence are 2 things: One, specifically is the group booking pace for the second half, both particularly for Q3 as well as Q4, when you look at overall second half, our pace is really strong. We have confidence in that pace number and the second piece is really the tailwind from 4 hotels that had a meaningful impact last year from renovation in the second half, second half of 2023. Those 4 hotels really being the one hotel South Beach, Fairmont Kea Lani, the Biscayne Bay Marriott and the Hilton Singer Island, which is a complete redevelopment project.So that's really what's going to help drive that tailwind into the second half at group booking pace and the tailwind from those 4 renovation properties. There are other factors as well, but those are probably the 2 largest most impactful factors driving the mid-single digits in the second half.OperatorYour next question is coming from Michael Bellisario from Baird.Michael Joseph BellisarioYou want to stick to your outlook. Do you have an industry RevPAR forecast that you're thinking about? And then specific to your outlook, what are you assuming for the mix of rate and occupancy in 2024? And how does that affect your expense outlook and how you're thinking about cost per occupied room?Sourav GhoshSure. So the way we think of the industry forecast is -- and if you look at [SCR] it's effectively at around 4%. But remember, our midpoint number is getting impacted 100 basis points as a result of the impact from Maui. So in other words, that would be 100 basis points more if it wasn't for Maui. That also, keep in mind, the weighting of our portfolio is different when you look at sort of the different markets that we have waiting in. So it's not on to apples-to-apples comparison when you are looking at our comparable RevPAR growth versus what the third parties put out there. So that's one thing to keep in mind as well.So overall, please, particularly given the capital investments that we have made, which Jim talked about and the lift that we are getting from the MTCP projects as well as the 8 other projects that we invested in and the RevPAR index gain translating into EBITDA growth as well. In terms of total expense growth for this year at the midpoint, we are effectively at 5.8% total expense growth on that midpoint of 4% for the total portfolio. And sorry, the other question you asked was just split between occ rates on that 2% and that's pretty evenly split between the two.OperatorYour next question is coming from Duane Pfennigwerth from Evercore ISI.Duane Thomas PfennigwerthSo on the group pace, I think you said up 13%. How are you thinking about closing group bookings in the quarter for the quarter over the balance of the year? Assume closing group would moderate as the booking curve continues to normalize. And then relatedly, are you leaning on group any differently than you did pre-pandemic given changes in underlying seasonality? So for example, given changes in business trends, is there more of an effort to lean on group to fill in off-peak periods?Sourav GhoshI'll start with the second part of your question. First, it's really an asset-by-asset revenue management decision in terms of what is available and where we can maximize yield. And we're looking always at the total revenue piece of it. It's not just the room night piece because obviously, the banquet and catering that groups provide makes a meaningful difference. So I wouldn't necessarily say there is a different way that we are -- or the managers are approaching revenue management. Obviously, the goal is to fill the hotels with the highest not only rated business, but the highest business that's going to provide you the highest total revenue and ultimately, total EBITDA for the hotel.When you think about sort of the cadence of group for the balance of the year, we already have 3.1 million group room nights on the books. We expect for the year based on the midpoint to be above in terms of total group room nights for the year relative to 2023. And we do not just given how well we've been pacing, obviously, in the year for the year, pickup is going to be lower.And in the month for the month and in the quarter for the quarter is going to be lower than what we have seen previously just because the lead times have expanded not only for just in the year for the year but also into future years. But we feel very confident with the ongoing sort of the short-term pickup to make that gap up, particularly given sort of the need dates that have been filled for the year, both in the first half as well as the second half.OperatorYour next question is coming from Chris Woronka from Deutsche Bank.Chris Jon WoronkaAppreciate all the details so far. Just had a question as to how you're thinking about cadence of transient through the year, especially as we get into summer Q3. Remember last year, we had a little, I guess, surprise where more International outbound and we didn't get the corresponding numbers inbound. How are you kind of internally modeling summer transient this year?Sourav GhoshSure. So the way we're thinking of transient, I mean, we obviously expect is to be moderating for the summer. We just had an extremely strong summer last year. And to your point, I mean, U.S. outbound for the year was 117% above '19 level and inbound was effectively at 90% of '19. For what it's worth right now is the U.S. travel is projecting that inbound number is going to be more at 98% for 2024 relative to '19, which is a good stat. We do expect an impact on a year-over-year basis, therefore, the low single-digit guidance for the first half of the year. But what I will say is our fourth quarter ended with our transient ADR for our resorts, still up 58% to 2019.And what we are seeing in terms of spring break, and I think that's like most visibility we have because you won't really get into summer visibility until you get to the end of Q1. Spring break is pacing up 20% in revenue and rate is pacing above 7%, and that's specifically for our resorts, excluding Maui. So we feel very good, which effectively is saying that none of these, particularly the transient resort ADR is still going to be above 50% of 2019 level. So that's really encouraging. Not in a visibility into the summer yet, but spring break is very encouraging.OperatorYour next question is coming from Stephen Grambling from Morgan Stanley.Stephen White Grambling(technical difficulty) Obviously, we can kind of look at the total dollar amounts but there's been some changes in construction costs and otherwise. I'm just curious how you're thinking about the ROI on those projects? And if you can give any other color comparing and contrasting the 2?James F. RisoleoStephen, it's Jim. The first part of your question, we didn't hear it cut off. So would you mind repeating it?Stephen White GramblingJust asking to compare and contrast the Hyatt transformation versus the Marriott transformation programs.James F. RisoleoAnd from what perspective?Stephen White GramblingHow you're thinking about the return on investment? How these -- how the hotels might compare and contrast as to the reason why we should be assuming that these should be kind of the same uplift? Or could there be a difference when we think about looking at the 2?James F. RisoleoNo, I think as you're looking at the HTCP program, it's modeled after the Marriott program. We have received enhanced priorities on all of our dollars that we're investing, which is meaningful because in many of the hotels, we didn't have owner's priority for one reason or another, either burned off over time or it just didn't exist. So that's -- it's a big plus. Hyatt is also providing $40 million in operating profit guarantees to cover off the anticipated disruption. And as we noted in our comments, we expect to collect $9 million in operating profit guarantees this year that will cover the anticipated disruption associated with the Hyatt renovations. And I think the cadence is that the assumptions are the same. The assumptions are the same, let's hope the results are the same because the results out of the MTCP blew away our assumptions. But we're looking at low teens cash-on-cash returns, say, low double-digit to low teens cash-on-cash returns, which is the same way we underwrote the MTCP program. And frankly, the other 8 assets that have received transformational renovations.Stephen White GramblingAnd just one follow-up on that. Was that primarily through RevPAR index premium? Or was there also a component? Any way to break that down with F&B uplift or other revenue uplift.James F. RisoleoIt's both. And I think we can talk -- I'm going to let Sourav talk a little bit about the F&B uplift because we have seen a meaningful uplift in F&B revenues throughout the portfolio.I think we have little audio problem here. Hang on.OperatorYour next question is coming from Aryeh Klein from BMO.Aryeh KleinSo I guess within the 4% RevPAR growth outlook, what are your expectations for leisure performance? Are you seeing any kind of noticeable difference in the consumer behavior at the ultra high-end resorts versus leisure at your other properties? And then maybe if you could just talk to what you're seeing in Maui from a future bookings perspective?James F. RisoleoSourav, are you back on audio? No, you are not.Sourav GhoshI am back on. I am back on.James F. RisoleoThere you go. Okay.Sourav GhoshI am back on. Sorry, could you repeat the question?James F. RisoleoI'll start that Aryeh with respect to what are we seeing from the leisure consumer. Our leisure transient traveler is generally, the affluent consumer in the country. We are seeing no slowdown in spend. We're really not seeing a backing off in a meaningful way in ADR. And out of room spend in banquet in outlets is still strong. This goes back to Stephen's question, the investment that we made in a lot of our properties and the transformational properties has resulted in a significant pickup in outlet spend throughout the portfolio.So the leisure is, from our perspective, it's still trending very strong. And I think that goes back to the commentary around spring break where our revenue pace is up 20% year-over-year for spring break, and we're very pleased with that.Aryeh KleinAnd then just on Maui, what you're seeing from a future booking standpoint that gives you kind of confidence in the recovery in the second half of the year?James F. RisoleoWell, I'm not certain that we said that there was going to be a recovery in the second half of the year. So we hope that there is a recovery in the second half of the year, but there are a number of things that have to happen on Maui particularly on the west side, which is where the wildfires were. And the gating issue really is finding shelter for the displaced residents. And March 1 is a pivotal date in our mind. The Governor of the State of Hawaii has stated that if the owners of short-term rentals on Maui don't come to terms with allowing their units to be utilized by the displaced residents, then he is considering a ban on short-term rentals because I think on the island of Maui in total, there's about 30,000 short-term rentals. So it's quite significant, and we're tracking it very closely. Additionally, cleanup and the plans to rebuild Lahaina town are still in process.So the west side, I think, is going to take some time to come back. In the interim, we have been working with relief agencies, in particular, now the Red Cross. And we have contracted with the Red Cross for 350 rooms at the Hyatt Regency Maui through the end of May. And we're hopeful that, that will be extended while the recovery moves forward.The story on Wailea, where we own the Andaz Wailea and the Fairmont Kea Lani is different. Those properties have been -- in the case of the Fairmont Kea Lani, just completed a transformational renovation. So the asset is in incredible shape as is the Andaz Wailea where we complete the soft goods rooms redo as well as the significant bathroom work. So both of those assets are in great shape. And we're confident that over time, as the consumer begins to understand the differentiation between Wailea, which is a completely different submarket than the west side and Ka'anapali, that will be the cadence of business pick up. And I would just say that as we think about the midpoint of our guidance this year, we've assumed pretty much a 100 basis point impact on Maui, and that will result in about the same diminution in EBITDA as we experienced last year, but if Maui is better than our anticipation, and it's too soon to really know that, then we think there is some upside. And that takes us to the higher end of the EBITDA guide.Sourav GhoshYes. I just want to make sure I explained the EBITDA piece for Maui, to be clear. Obviously, when you look at sort of the first half, it's going to be impacted by the wildfire. That's about it, $25 million to $30 million incremental impact for 2024. So when you think about the total impact for the year, it close to $50 million that the wildfire impact is actually having as a result of Maui. So just keep that in mind, it's a $25 million incremental impact year-over-year, $25 million to $30 million.OperatorYour next question is coming from David Katz from Jefferies.David Brian KatzYou covered a lot of ground already. And I really wanted to just maybe triple click on how we think about the boundaries for deals, more or fixer uppers in or out of bounds versus things that just need a little more strategic direction? And any thoughts on sort of size would be helpful there as well and that's it for me.James F. RisoleoYes. Well, David, let me take the second part of your question first because that's an easy one. Bigger is better for us. And we don't turn any attractive opportunity away. But obviously, given our scale and our ability to deploy capital, we focus on larger transactions, we focus on complicated transactions, complicated boxes with diverse demand generators being group, business transient and leisure as well as hotels that have multiple outlets and look for opportunities to not only improve the top line, but to improve the middle part of that P&L through our asset management and enterprise analytics capabilities. We are perfectly open-minded to buying an asset that needs to be repositioned from a CapEx perspective. It doesn't concern us at all. We certainly have the ability with our design and construction group in-house to do that. But what we really look at is how is this asset going to perform after it is renovated and repositioned and how is it going to perform relative to the existing portfolio because our bottom line goal is to put money to work whether it's within our existing assets or new acquisitions to elevate the EBITDA growth profile of the company. So it's across the board.OperatorYour next question is coming from Dori Kesten from Wells Fargo.Dori Lynn KestenHow is the spread between your group and transient ADR shifted from 2019 to today? And I guess how much do your transient rates drive your end year for the year group booking pricing?Sourav GhoshSorry Dori, can you repeat the question for me?Dori Lynn KestenSo the spread between your group rates and your transient rates, I'm wondering how that's changed from 2019 to today? And then the second piece of it was how much do your transient rates inform your end year for the year group pricing?Sourav GhoshYes. So it's typically -- so I will answer the second half first, I'll have to get back to you on the specific delta to '19 on group and transient. I don't have that in front of me. But in terms of the way we think about the yielding, it really is group comes first. So you're developing that group base and you're seeing where the group rate is and then you're yielding the transient business. And depending on where group is coming in, and it's not just a rate piece, you have to remember, it's also -- we get a meaningful amount of ancillary business with food and beverage and golf and spine and all that, that makes up a pretty meaningful amount for our portfolio. It is looking at total revenue and what that contribution is to total EBITDA. So once the group base is built, then we figure out when the properties are looking at, okay, what makes most sense to layer in transient and at what rate. So you're going to yield out the lower-rated business and obviously move towards the higher rated business. So it's more the group base that drives it versus just where transient is coming in? I mean, so you're looking at transient pickup certainly and in the short term and filling that up, but it also -- the pricing is all determined where group set for majority of our portfolio.OperatorCertainly. There are no further questions in the queue. I'll now hand the conference back to Jim for closing remarks. Please go ahead.James F. RisoleoThank you, and thank you all for joining us today. We appreciate the opportunity to discuss our quarterly results and our guidance for 2024, and we look forward to seeing many of you at conferences in the coming months. Have a great day.OperatorThank you, everyone. This concludes today's event. You may disconnect at this time, and have a wonderful day. Thank you for your participation.

Thomson Reuters StreetEvents

Q4 2023 Host Hotels & Resorts Inc Earnings Call

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/q4-2023-host-hotels-resorts-052922719.html

d60cdb1d-3b2d-3cf7-a087-06d55d716a20

HST

Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. (NASDAQ:HST) Q4 2023 Earnings Call Transcript February 22, 2024Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. isn’t one of the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds at the end of the third quarter (see the details here).Operator: Good morning, and welcome to the Host Hotels & Resorts Fourth Quarter 2023 Earnings Conference Call. Today's conference is being recorded. At this time, I'd like to turn the call over to Jaime Marcus, Senior Vice President of Investor Relations.Jaime Marcus: Thank you, and good morning, everyone. Before we begin, please note that many of the comments made today are considered to be forward-looking statements under federal securities laws. As described in our filings with the SEC, these statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause future results to differ from those expressed, and we are not obligated to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements. In addition, on today's call, we will discuss certain non-GAAP financial information, such as FFO, adjusted EBITDAre and comparable hotel level results. You can find this information together with reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP information in yesterday's earnings press release and our 8-K filed with the SEC and in the supplemental financial information on our website at hosthotels.com.With me on today's call are Jim Risoleo, President and Chief Executive Officer; and Sourav Ghosh, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. With that, I would like to turn the call over to Jim.Jim Risoleo: Thank you, Jaime, and thanks to everyone for joining us this morning. 2023 was a terrific year for Host on several fronts. First, we delivered strong operational improvements, driven largely by occupancy increases and continued rate growth. Second, we completed the work on the three strategic objectives we established in 2021 and we will continue to realize the benefits of our ongoing efforts well into the future. Third, we returned significant capital to stockholders in the form of dividends and share repurchases, continue to successfully allocate capital through reinvestment in our portfolio and announced an agreement with Hyatt to complete transformational renovations at six properties in our portfolio. Lastly, we maintained an investment grade balance sheet and continue to position Host to capitalize on the significant growth opportunities we see in the lodging space including potential acquisition opportunities.Story continuesTurning to our results. We finished 2023 above the midpoint of our full year guidance range. We delivered adjusted EBITDAre of $1.629 billion and adjusted FFO per share of $1.92. Comparable hotel total RevPAR grew 8.3% and comparable hotel RevPAR grew 8.1% compared to 2022. Notably, comparable hotel EBITDA margin was 60 basis points ahead of 2019 due in large part to our efforts to redefine the hotel operating model with our managers. During the fourth quarter, we delivered adjusted EBITDAre of $378 million and adjusted FFO per share of $0.44, which includes $26 million of business interruption proceeds from Hurricane Ian. Comparable hotel RevPAR improved 1.5% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022. Our RevPAR performance for the quarter was driven by an increase in both occupancy and rate.Despite an estimated 30 basis point impact from the wildfires in Maui, our fourth quarter comparable hotel EBITDA margin of 28.1% was flat to 2019. This marks the seventh consecutive quarter since the onset of the pandemic that we have achieved total RevPAR, RevPAR comparable hotel EBITDA and margins at or above 2019 levels. I will say that one more time. We have delivered operating metrics at or above 2019 levels for nearly two years. As a reminder, the operational results discussed today refer to our comparable hotel portfolio in 2023, which excludes Hyatt Coconut Point and Ritz-Carlton, Naples. In 2024, our comparable hotel portfolio only excludes Ritz-Carlton Naples. During the fourth quarter, our portfolio results were once again impacted by the evolving nature of demand at our three resorts on Maui.We estimate that the Maui wildfires impacted fourth quarter comparable hotel RevPAR by 130 basis points, comparable hotel total RevPAR by 150 basis points, comparable hotel EBITDA by $9 million and comparable hotel EBITDA margin by 30 basis points. For the full year, we estimate that Maui impacted our comparable hotel RevPAR by 50 basis points, comparable hotel total RevPAR by 70 basis points, comparable hotel EBITDA by $13 million and comparable hotel EBITDA margin by 10 basis points. Including our joint venture timeshare, we estimate that Maui impacted adjusted EBITDAre by $15 million in the fourth quarter and $22 million for the full year. Our risk management team is continuing to engage with our insurers about potential business interruption coverage at Maui and the timing and amounts of any potential proceeds are not yet known.Shifting to another market that remains top of mind. San Francisco results showed meaningful year-over-year improvement in the fourth quarter. RevPAR was up 10%, driven by both rate and occupancy and F&B revenue was up 15%. Group business is driving the strong results with group room revenue up 36% for the fourth quarter compared to last year as our properties have shifted their focus to in-house groups until the citywide calendar improves in 2025. We have seen positive trends from 2023 continuing in the first quarter of 2024 with conventions driving weekday demand. In fact, January was the best month in the history of the San Francisco Marriott Marquis, with total revenue and EBITDA setting all time records. Briefly looking at out-of-room spend in the fourth quarter, comparable hotel, food and beverage and other revenues were down slightly due to impacts from Maui.We estimate that Maui impacted fourth quarter F&B and other revenues by 60 basis points and 540 basis points, respectively. Encouragingly, the out-of-room revenue trends we have seen post-pandemic remain elevated for the rest of our portfolio. In addition to driving strong RevPAR growth and operating improvements across the business, we continue to be recognized as a global leader in corporate responsibility over the course of 2023. We introduced new 2030 environmental and social targets, which are aligned with our vision of becoming a net positive company by 2050, incorporate the progress made toward our prior goals, and are more reflective of our current portfolio by updating our baseline to 2019. These environmental and social targets will enable our team to focus on and measure our progress over the long-term.Our 2030 environmental targets are in their third generation and put hosts on a linear path to net zero operations by 2040, leaving 10 years to get to net positive by 2050. We now have 14 properties with lead certification and projects in the pipeline at 19 properties. In addition, we are the only lodging REIT to have green building certifications linked to our sustainable financings. In this year’s corporate responsibility report, we highlighted our asset level climate risk assessment across three near-term climate perils including flood, wind and wildfire, and three long-term perils including heat, cold and water stress. Based on the results, we have identified assets with elevated climate risk and their corresponding EBITDA contributions, which allows us to prioritize capital investments in resilience and better underwrite potential acquisitions.Our 2030 social targets are in their second generation and now include two responsible supply chain targets around supplier diversity and responsible sourcing and one new community impact target. As an employer of choice, we aim to lead our industry by integrating diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging best practices into all aspects of our culture. Turning to capital allocation, we repurchased 1.9 million shares at an average price of $16.50 per share in the fourth quarter. For the full year, we repurchased 11.4 million shares at an average price of $15.93 per share for a total of $181 million. We have approximately $792 million of remaining capacity under the repurchase program. In the fourth quarter, we declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share, an 11% increase over the prior quarter.We also announced a special dividend of $0.25 per share bringing the total dividends declared for the year to $0.90 per share. In total, we returned over $700 million of capital to shareholders in 2023. Additionally, in the fourth quarter, the buyer of the Sheraton New York repaid the $250 million seller financing loan, we provided to effectuate the disposition. Our size, scale and balance sheet have allowed us to provide seller financing on three recent dispositions at a time when debt capital was scarce. Further demonstrating that our fortress balance sheet and unparalleled access to capital creates unique opportunities and substantial value for shareholders. Turning back to fourth quarter operations, our overall business mix results were skewed by Maui as leisure transient demand decreased and group demand increased, driven by recovery and relief groups.Outside of this temporary demand shift, business mix results were as expected. Group led to growth with nearly 1 million group room nights sold in the fourth quarter, bringing our total group nights sold for 2023 to 4.1 million, or 112% of comparable 2022 actual group room nights. Business transient continued its gradual improvement with 7% revenue growth for the quarter and leisure remaining strong with transient rates at our resorts up 58% to 2019, including our three Maui resorts. As we look at the current backdrop for our business, we are optimistic about 2024 for several reasons. First, macroeconomic sentiment is incrementally more positive with consensus expectations of a soft landing. Second, supply levels and anticipated growth in supply is at historically low levels in our markets and chain scales.A high-end hotel lobby, with modern furnishings, lush carpeting, and natural light.Third, we expect tailwinds from increased airline capacity, continued improvement in the international inbound demand imbalance, and lastly, the transactions market is expected to pick up as improved macroeconomic sentiment allows for more visibility on operating performance and the market is expecting that we will see rate cuts later this year. As we consider these factors, we believe host is best positioned to capitalize on acquisition opportunities with $2.9 billion of total available liquidity and net leverage of 1.9 times. In addition, we have completed 24 transformational renovations and four development ROI projects, which we believe provide meaningful tailwinds for our portfolio. Looking at results to date, of the 10 hotels that have stabilized post renovation operations, the average RevPAR index share gain is 8.2 points, which is well in excess of our targeted gain of 3 to 5 points.We are also continuing to reinvest in our portfolio with additional comprehensive renovations and resiliency investments underway, and we do not expect meaningful disruption this year. And most importantly, we believe that diverse demand drivers in our portfolio leave us well positioned for top line growth. Sourav will discuss more operational detail in our 2024 outlook in a few minutes. Turning to portfolio reinvestment in 2023, we invested nearly $650 million in capital expenditures at our properties, completing renovations to approximately 3,500 guest rooms, 111,000 square feet of meeting space and approximately 110,000 square feetof public space. In addition, we substantially completed property restorations following Hurricane Ian. In 2024, our capital expenditure guidance range is $500 million to $605 million, which reflects approximately $225 million to $280 million of investment for redevelopment, repositioning and ROI projects.Within the Hyatt Transformational Capital program, we have already started renovations at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta and the Grand Hyatt Washington, which we expect to complete in the first half of 2025. We will also start transformational renovations at the Hyatt Regency Reston in the fourth quarter of this year. Other major ROI projects include the completion of renovations at the Hilton Singer Island Resort and the construction of the Finishing Canyon Suites Villa expansion. In addition to our capital expenditure investment, we expect to spend $50 million to $70 million on the luxury condominium development at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort this year. We expect to benefit from approximately $9 million of operating profit guarantees related to the Hyatt Transformational Capital program, which will offset the expected revenue disruption at those properties for 2024.We are extremely proud of our operational and financial performance in 2023 and the iconic portfolio and balance sheet we have built and maintained. Our people, our platform and our portfolio have allowed us to create meaningful shareholder value and we are confident in the significant opportunities ahead for continued growth and value creation in 2024. With that, I will now turn the call over to Sourav.Sourav Ghosh: Thank you, Jim, and good morning, everyone. Building on Jim's comments, I will go into detail on our fourth quarter operations full year 2024 guidance and our balance sheet. Starting with business mix, overall transient revenue was down 5% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022, driven by the evolving nature of demand in Maui. We estimate that Maui had a 590 basis point impact to transient revenue, which was evenly split between demand and rate. We were encouraged that transient rate at our resorts grew 2% above last year's tough comparisons despite the demand impact from Maui and renovation disruption. Looking ahead to spring break, transient revenue pace is up for our portfolio compared to the same time last year, driven by occupancy and rate growth at our resorts.Outside of Maui, resort transient revenue pace for spring breakis up 20%. Business transient revenue was up over 7% to the fourth quarter of 2022, driven by both rate and demand growth at our downtown properties. Business transient demand continued its slow and steady recovery. Room nights at our downtown properties were down 15% in the fourth quarter compared to 2019, which is the smallest gap to the 2019post-pandemic. For the full year, business transient demand grew 12% over 2022. In 2024, we expect further demand growth driven by large corporates alongside rate growth in the mid-single-digits. Turning to group. 2023 was the year of group and convention hotel recovery. For the full year, group room revenues increased 21% over last year and room night volume recovered to 95% of 2019 levels.It is worth noting that our group results were positively skewed by disaster and recovery bookings in Maui. Excluding Maui, group room night volume recovered to 94% of 2019 levels. Group room revenue exceeded 2022 by 13% in the fourth quarter, driven by an increase in both rate and room nights, and we estimate roughly half of that growth can be attributed to recovery and relief groups on Maui. Outside of Maui, hotels in San Francisco, Boston, DC and Seattle contributed to the group room night increase. Notably, November's APAC Conference in San Francisco drove results with an estimated 41,000 citywide group room nights. Looking ahead to 2024, we have 3.1 million definite group room nights on the books, representing a 16% increase since the third quarter, putting us ahead of where we were this time last year.Total group revenue pace is up 10% over the same time last year, driven by rate room nights and banquets. We continue to be encouraged by the ongoing strength of group business as evidenced by strong pace, lengthening booking windows and double digit citywide room night pace in key markets such as New Orleans, San Diego, Seattle and D.C. Shifting gears to margins. As expected, margin declines year-over-year were driven by increases in wages and benefits, fixed expenses as well as moderating attrition and cancellation revenues and impacts from Maui. Despite these headwinds, full year 2023 comparable hotel EBITDA margin was 30.1%, representing a 60 basis point increase over 2019. Our ability to achieve this margin expansion is a result of our efforts to redefine the operating model and is indicative of our strong execution, particularly when considering that total comparable hotel expenses have only grown 7% in the last four years and occupancy is still 8 points below 2019.Turning to our outlook for 2024. The midpoint of our guidance contemplates a stable operating environment with continued improvement in group business, a continued gradual recovery in business transient, steady leisure transient demand and a continued evolution of demand on Maui as the island recovers from the recent wildfires. At the low end, we have assumed slower group pickup and softer leisure transient, and at the high end, we have assumed a faster recovery at our Maui Resort and increased group pickup. For full year 2024, we anticipate comparable hotel RevPAR growth of between 2.5% and 5.5% over 2023. We expect comparable hotel EBITDA margins to be down 120 basis points year-over-year at the low end of our guidance to down 40 basis points at the high end.Notably, we expect margins to be down only 20 basis points at the midpoint versus 2019 despite a 50 basis point margin impact from Maui. In terms of RevPAR growth cadence for the year, we expect comparable hotel RevPAR growth to be in the low single digits in the first half of the year due to tough comparisons to 2023, which saw a surge in recovery of downtown markets driven by improving group business and elevated leisure demand. We expect mid-single digit comparable hotel RevPAR growth in the second half of the year as a result of strong group booking pace, less renovation disruption compared to the second half of 2023 and the diminishing impact of the Maui wildfires. For January, we expect comparable hotel RevPAR to be approximately $187, a 1.4% improvement over 2023.At the midpoint of our guidance range, we anticipate comparable hotel RevPAR growth of 4% compared to 2023 and a comparable hotel EBITDA margin of 29.3%, which is 80 basis points below 2023. As we think about bridging our 2023 results to 2024, we estimate that Maui is impacting comparable hotel RevPAR by 100 basis points and comparable hotel EBITDA margin by 50 basis points. We also expect a 15 basis point impact to margins from moderating attrition and cancellation revenues and a 45 basis point impact from property taxes and insurance. In 2024, we expect wage rates to increase approximately 5%. For context, in 2023, wages and benefits comprised approximately 50% of our total comparable hotel expenses and attrition and cancellation revenues were $75 million, which is approximately 50% higher than 2019.Our 2024 full year adjusted EBITDAre midpoint is $1,635 million, this includes an expected additional $10 million from business interruption proceeds related to Hurricane Ian and an estimated $60 million contribution from operations at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples, which is excluded from our comparable hotel set in 2024. It is important to note that we have not included any assumption for business interruption proceeds from the Maui wildfires in our 2024 guidance. Turning to our balance sheet and liquidity position, our weighted average maturity is 4.2 years at a weighted average interest rate of 4.5%. We have a balanced maturity schedule with our next maturity of $400 million coming due in April 2024. We are closely monitoring the debt capital markets and we believe our balance sheet provides us with optionality and flexibility.As Jim noted, we have $2.9 billion in total available liquidity, which includes $217 million of FF&E reserves and full availability of our $1.5 billion credit facility. We ended 2023 at 1.9x net leverage, and since our last call, Fitch upgraded the company’s issuer rating from BBB- to BBB with a stable outlook, returning Host to its pre-pandemic rating level. Wrapping up. In January we paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share and a special dividend of $0.25, returning to our pre-pandemic quarterly payout level. The Board of Directors authorized a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 on our common stock to be paid on April 15, 2024 to stockholders of record on March 28, 2024. As always, future dividends are subject to approval by the company’s Board of Directors.To conclude, we are proud of our achievements in 2023 and we believe our best-in-class portfolio and balance sheet leave us uniquely positioned to capitalize on opportunities for growth in the future. With that, we would be happy to take your questions. To ensure we have time to address as many questions as possible, please limit yourself to one question.See also 20 Fastest Growing Biotech Companies in the US and Jim Cramer’s 2024 Portfolio: 10 Latest Stock Picks.To continue reading the Q&A session, please click here.

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Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. (NASDAQ:HST) Q4 2023 Earnings Call Transcript

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/host-hotels-resorts-inc-nasdaq-142152526.html

9242deaf-cf12-34f2-88fe-22a91a41f1dc

HST

Host Hotels & Resorts Inc's strategic positioning as a leading luxury and upper-upscale hotel owner.Analysis of the company's financial health and investment grade balance sheet.Exploration of market opportunities and competitive threats in the lodging industry.Assessment of Host Hotels & Resorts Inc's operational strategies and corporate responsibility initiatives.Warning! GuruFocus has detected 6 Warning Sign with HST.Host Hotels & Resorts Inc (NASDAQ:HST), the largest publicly traded lodging real estate investment trust (REIT), released its 10-K filing on February 28, 2024, providing a comprehensive overview of its financial condition and results of operations. With a consolidated portfolio of 77 luxury and upper-upscale hotels, Host Hotels & Resorts Inc stands as a dominant player in the U.S. lodging market. The company's financial tables reveal a robust balance sheet, with a focus on maintaining an investment-grade rating and a disciplined approach to capital allocation. The strategic divestment of European and Asian joint venture interests, alongside the active management of its U.S. portfolio, underscores Host Hotels & Resorts Inc's commitment to optimizing asset value and shareholder returns.Decoding Host Hotels & Resorts Inc (HST): A Strategic SWOT InsightStrengthsBrand Power and Market Presence: Host Hotels & Resorts Inc's portfolio predominantly features luxury and upper-upscale hotels, operating under esteemed brands such as Marriott and Starwood. This brand affiliation not only enhances the company's market visibility but also provides a competitive edge in attracting high-value clientele. The strategic focus on these chain scales is supported by the company's strong performance in key markets, which is indicative of a loyal customer base and a robust brand reputation.Financial Resilience: The company's financial health is a testament to its operational efficiency and prudent fiscal management. Host Hotels & Resorts Inc maintains an investment-grade balance sheet, which is a critical factor in ensuring access to capital at favorable terms. The strong capital structure, coupled with a disciplined capital recycling program, positions the company to navigate market fluctuations effectively and pursue growth opportunities.Story continuesWeaknessesGeographic Concentration: While Host Hotels & Resorts Inc benefits from a geographically diverse portfolio within the United States, the recent divestitures in Europe and Asia may limit its global footprint and exposure to international markets. This concentration in the U.S. market could potentially amplify the impact of domestic economic downturns on the company's performance.Operational Constraints: As a REIT, Host Hotels & Resorts Inc is subject to stringent regulations that restrict its ability to directly manage and operate hotels. This reliance on third-party hotel managers could lead to challenges in maintaining consistent service quality and operational control across its properties.OpportunitiesStrategic Acquisitions: Host Hotels & Resorts Inc's strong balance sheet and capital allocation strategy position it to take advantage of acquisition opportunities. The company's focus on iconic upper-upscale and luxury properties in markets with high growth potential presents a significant opportunity to enhance its portfolio and drive long-term shareholder value.Value Enhancement Initiatives: The company's commitment to ROI projects and value enhancement initiatives, such as hotel expansions and green building certifications, offers a pathway to improve asset value and operational efficiency. These projects are designed to reposition Host Hotels & Resorts Inc's hotels within their markets, potentially leading to increased competitiveness and profitability.ThreatsMarket Cyclicality: The lodging industry is inherently cyclical, with demand closely tied to the overall economic climate. Host Hotels & Resorts Inc's performance, like that of its peers, is vulnerable to economic downturns that can lead to decreased travel and lodging demand, ultimately impacting revenue and profitability.Competitive Landscape: The rise of alternative lodging options, such as short-term rentals facilitated by online platforms, poses a threat to traditional hotel operators. Host Hotels & Resorts Inc must navigate this evolving competitive landscape and adapt its strategies to maintain market share and customer loyalty.In conclusion, Host Hotels & Resorts Inc (NASDAQ:HST) exhibits a strong market presence and financial resilience, underpinned by a portfolio of well-regarded luxury and upper-upscale hotels. However, the company faces challenges related to geographic concentration and operational constraints. Looking ahead, Host Hotels & Resorts Inc has the opportunity to expand its portfolio through strategic acquisitions and enhance asset value through targeted investments. Nevertheless, the company must remain vigilant in the face of economic cyclicality and a competitive market that includes emerging lodging alternatives. By leveraging its strengths and addressing its weaknesses, Host Hotels & Resorts Inc is well-positioned to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate threats in the dynamic lodging industry.This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

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Decoding Host Hotels & Resorts Inc (HST): A Strategic SWOT Insight

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/decoding-host-hotels-resorts-inc-050635073.html

d4a8f1e5-fdd4-3f92-aaa0-c38297a3d1e0

HST

In this article, we will be covering the 20 largest travel companies in the world. If you want to skip our detailed analysis of the travel and tourism industry, you can go directly to 5 Largest Travel Companies In The World.The travel and tourism sector plays a vital role in global economies. It creates jobs, fosters cultural exchange, and supports local businesses. It promotes understanding between nations while also contributing significantly to GDP growth. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), travel and tourism accounted for 7.6% of global GDP in 2022 while also creating 22 million new jobs around the world.An Analysis of the Global Travel and Tourism IndustryThe travel and tourism sector plays a crucial role in addressing societal and economic challenges. The industry is now thriving after being severely impacted during the peak of the COVID-19 crisis, which led to travel restrictions, cancellations, and a sharp decline in tourism activities. According to a report by Market Research Future, the global travel and tourism market reached a value of $648.03 billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2023 to 2032 and reach a value of more than $1.01 trillion by the end of the forecasted period. The North American region leads the global travel and tourism market, while Europe follows as the second-largest market. The Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit the fastest growth in the industry during the forecasted period.The travel and tourism market is undergoing a digital transformation with online booking platforms, travel agencies, mobile apps, and online travel-related services driving growth by enhancing connectivity and providing convenient and personalized traveler experiences. The trend of cultural and experiential tourism, with travelers seeking authentic, immersive experiences, unique destinations, and local experiences, is also a key factor driving market growth. Moreover, the rise in disposable incomes, especially in emerging markets, is leading to increased tourism. More people have the means to explore domestic and international destinations. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), domestic visitor spending saw an increase of 20.4% in 2022. On the other hand, international visitor spending went up by 81.9% in 2022.Story continuesWhat are Some of the Biggest Companies in the Travel and Tourism Industry Up To?Prominent companies in the travel and tourism industry are actively pursuing various strategies to expand their global presence and increase their profitability. Some of the most notable names are Marriott International Inc. (NYSE:MAR), Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HLT), and Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG).Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) is one of the world’s largest providers of online travel and related services. It provides online travel services in more than 220 countries through its brands which include Booking.com, Priceline, Agoda, KAYAK, and OpenTable. Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) is also one of the best travel stocks to buy. On February 22, Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) reported strong earnings for the fiscal fourth quarter of 2023. The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $32, surpassing EPS estimates by $1.95. The company’s revenue for the quarter grew by 18.15% year-over-year and amounted to $4.78 billion, ahead of market consensus by $73.37 million. Here are some comments from Booking Holdings Inc.’s (NASDAQ:BKNG) Q4 2023 earnings call:“As we look to the year ahead, we see strong growth on the books for travel that’s scheduled to take place in 2024, which gives early indications of potentially another record summer travel season. As we’ve noted previously, a high percentage of these bookings are capable and what is on the books today for the summer period represents a small percentage of the total bookings that we expect to ultimately receive. David will provide further details on fourth quarter results and on our thoughts about the first quarter and full year 2024. Looking back at the full year of 2023, I am proud of our efforts to drive more benefits to our travelers and supply partners while also delivering record-setting industry-leading financial results. We reached a significant milestone last year with our customers’ booking an all-time high of over 1 billion room nights on our platform, which was an increase of 17% versus 2022.”As the demand for travel and tourism continues to grow, companies operating in this space are launching new products, engaging in mergers and acquisitions, increasing investments, and forming contracts and collaborations. Marriott International Inc. (NYSE:MAR) is an American multinational hospitality company. It operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts in more than 130 countries around the world. On March 7, Marriott International Inc. (NYSE:MAR) announced that it has entered into an agreement with Victoria Park Hotels Ltd. to launch The Park Lane Hong Kong, Autograph Collection. This new addition is set to become part of Autograph Collection Hotels by early 2025. Autograph Collection Hotels’ portfolio includes more than 300 independent properties in some of the most desirable locations around the world. Situated within a 28-story mixed-use complex featuring retail spaces on the lower floors, the new hotel is projected to have 820 guest rooms, an executive lounge, 3 unique dining venues, extensive event spaces spanning over 1,700 square meters, and various recreational facilities. Some of the guest rooms will boast stunning views of Victoria Harbour, while others will overlook the city or Victoria Park in Hong Kong.On February 7, Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HLT) announced an exclusive strategic partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) that will introduce guests of Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HLT) to a wide range of hotels in some of the most popular destinations around the world. This collaboration will significantly enhance Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc.’s (NYSE:HLT) luxury offerings as unique SLH properties become part of the esteemed Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, and LXR Hotels & Resorts brands.Now that we have discussed what’s going on in the global travel and tourism industry, let’s take a look at the 20 largest travel companies in the world.20 Largest Travel Companies In The WorldA line of travellers queuing for a commercial flight, emphasizing the airport management operations.MethodologyIn this article, we have listed the 20 largest travel companies in the world. To find the top travel companies in the world, we sifted through various sources including industry reports, our own rankings in addition to rankings available on various websites, and consulted stock screeners from Yahoo Finance and Finviz. For companies that are publicly traded, we decided to rank them according to their market capitalization as of March 9. We used fiscal year revenues to rank the companies that are not publicly traded. For foreign companies, we converted the market caps and revenues to US dollars according to their respective exchange rates, as of March 9. Finally, we narrowed down our selection to rank the 20 largest travel companies in the world based on their market capitalization and revenues, which are listed below in ascending order.20 Largest Travel Companies In The World20. Host Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE:HST)Market Capitalization: $14.9 BillionHost Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE:HST) is a major American lodging real estate investment trust (REIT) that invests in hotels. It owns a diverse portfolio of luxury and upper-upscale hotels. Host Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE:HST) has a market capitalization of $14.9 billion as of March 9, 2024.19. Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H)Market Capitalization: $16.12 BillionHyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) is an American multinational hospitality company. As one of the world’s top hospitality companies, it manages and franchises luxury and business hotels, resorts, and vacation properties in more than 70 countries across 6 continents. As of March 9, 2024, Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) has a market capitalization of $16.12 billion.18. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG)Market Capitalization: $17.4 BillionInterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) is a British multinational hospitality company. With more than 6,000 hotels in over 100 countries, it is one of the world’s leading hotel companies. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) has a market capitalization of $17.4 billion as of March 9, 2024. It ranks 18th on our list of the 20 biggest travel companies in the world.17. Expedia Group Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE)Market Capitalization: $18.5 BillionExpedia Group Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE) is an American travel technology company. As one of the top travel agencies in the world, it owns and operates various brands including Expedia, Hotels.com, CarRentals.com, Vrbo, Travelocity, Trivago, Orbitz, Ebookers, CheapTickets, and Expedia Cruises. As of March 9, 2024, Expedia Group Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE) has a market capitalization of $18.5 billion.16. Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV)Market Capitalization: $20.44 BillionSouthwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV) is an American airline company. It offers low-cost air travel service with frequent flights of mostly short routes. As one of the biggest travel companies in the world, Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV) has a market capitalization of $20.44 billion as of March 9, 2024.15. Qatar Airways GroupRevenue: $21 BillionQatar Airways Group is the flag carrier of Qatar. Owned by the Government of Qatar, it is one of the world’s top airlines and it currently flies to over 170 international destinations. Qatar Airways Group generated an annual revenue of $21 billion in the year 2022-2023. It ranks among the top 15 on our list of the 20 largest travel companies in the world.14. Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)Market Capitalization: $21.38 BillionCarnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) is a British-American cruise operator. As one of the world's largest leisure travel companies, it owns some of the most well-known cruise line brands in North America, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Australia. Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) has a market capitalization of $21.38 billion as of March 9, 2024.13. Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited (SEHK:0027)Market Capitalization: $21.83 BillionGalaxy Entertainment Group Limited (SEHK:0027) is one of Asia’s top developers and operators of integrated entertainment and resort facilities. It owns and operates a broad portfolio of integrated resort, retail, dining, hotel, and gaming facilities in Macau. As one of the top travel companies in the world, Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited (SEHK:0027) has a market capitalization of $21.83 billion as of March 9, 2024.12. Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:DAL)Market Capitalization: $27.17 BillionDelta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:DAL) is one of America’s major airlines. It is also one of the world’s largest airlines by number of passengers carried. As one of the top travel companies in the world, Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:DAL) has a market capitalization of $27.17 billion as of March 9, 2024.11. Amadeus IT Group S.A. (BME:AMS)Market Capitalization: $27.31 BillionAmadeus IT Group S.A. (BME:AMS) is a Spanish multinational technology company that develops technology and software for airlines, travel agencies, hotels, payment providers, and other travel-related businesses to enhance their operations and customer experiences. With a presence in more than 190 countries, the company provides software solutions for the global travel and tourism industry. As of March 9, 2024, Amadeus IT Group S.A. (BME:AMS) has a market capitalization of $27.31 billion.10. Trip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:TCOM)Market Capitalization: $28.27 BillionTrip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:TCOM) is a multinational travel service company that ranks among the top 10 on our list of the largest travel companies in the world. It owns and operates several travel agencies and travel fare aggregators including Ctrip, Qunar, Trip.com and Skyscanner. As of March 9, 2024, Trip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:TCOM) has a market capitalization of $28.27 billion.9. Ryanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ:RYAAY)Market Capitalization: $32.3 BillionRyanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ:RYAAY) is an Irish airline company. As one of Europe's largest airline groups, it is the parent company of Ryanair, Ryanair UK, Buzz, Lauda, and Malta Air. With a market capitalization of $32.3 billion as of March 9, 2024, Ryanair Holdings plc (NASDAQ:RYAAY) ranks 9th on our list of the 20 largest travel companies in the world.8. Emirates GroupRevenue: $32.6 BillionEmirates Group is Dubai’s state-owned international aviation holding company. It owns Dubai National Air Travel Agency (dnata), an airport and ground services company, and Emirates Airline, one of the largest airlines in the Middle East. Emirates Group generated an annual revenue of $32.6 billion in the year 2022-2023.7. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL)Market Capitalization: $32.71 BillionRoyal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL) is a global cruise holding company that owns and operates cruise brands including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. As one of the world’s largest cruise line operators, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL) has a global fleet of 65 ships traveling to around 1,000 destinations around the world. The company has a market capitalization of $32.71 billion as of March 9, 2024.6. Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS)Market Capitalization: $38.81 BillionLas Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) is an American casino and resort company that owns and operates integrated resorts in Macao and Singapore. As a driver of valuable leisure and business tourism, it is one of the world’s largest hotel and casino companies. With a market capitalization of $38.81 billion as of March 9, 2024, Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) ranks 6th on our list of the 20 largest travel companies in the world.Click to continue reading and see 5 Largest Travel Companies In The World.Suggested Articles:40 Most Polluted Cities in the World in 202420 Countries with the Strongest Paramilitary Forces in the World15 Sunniest Cities in EuropeDisclosure: None. 20 Largest Travel Companies In The World is published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

20 Largest Travel Companies In The World

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/20-largest-travel-companies-world-180018353.html

f7019cdb-8fb0-3878-92c1-5d248c647fc3

HSY

Major food companies are setting the table for investors.At the annual Consumer Analyst Group of New York (CAGNY) conference in Boca Raton, Fla., major packaged food brands with enticing dividend payouts such as PepsiCo (PEP), Coca-Cola (KO), Hershey's (HSY), Conagra Brands (CAG), and Molson Coors (TAP) presented updates to their businesses. Some even offered unexpected twists to their strategies.The overarching story from food companies centered on a return to normal. After a year of Ozempic fears settling in, a pullback in consumer spending amid higher prices, and a few lingering post-COVID supply chain issues, food execs were eager to move the narrative forward.Barring any further disruptions in 2024, one common theme from food companies was staying on track, Mizuho Securities managing director John Baumgartner told Yahoo Finance. "This is the first year now in probably three or four where you're sort of operating in normalized conditions. ... So I think [they have] a lot of hope that [they're] going to be in a stable environment."With the conference set to run through Friday, here are some other trends Yahoo Finance noticed on the ground.The Pop-Tarts mascot, Strawberry, poses for a photo before the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, at Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Fla. (Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) (Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)All eyes on volumeFood execs are focused on volume recovery, as Americans have scaled back how much they're buying because of high prices.Leaders at General Mills (GIS) and Conagra were "hesitant to comment on whether fiscal 2025 (beginning in June) could be a return to growth in line with long-term targets," Evercore ISI analyst David Palmer wrote in a note to clients from the event.Hershey and Mondelēz (MDLZ) called out "price pack architecture," which uses different sizes and price points, as a potential growth lever. "We've always capitalized on having different price points, different pack sizes, so that there's accessibility for everyone," Hershey CEO Michele Buck said to the crowd.Meanwhile, WK Kellogg Co is taking a different approach by providing value through nutrition, an idea that CEO Gary Pilnick believes will stick around.Story continues“We go through different business cycles, we go through different fads, different nutrition demands," Pilnick said. "There's something in [each of those trends] for cereal."Various types of Kellogg's cereals are pictured at a Ralphs grocery store in Pasadena, Calif., Aug. 3, 2015. (Mario Anzuoni/REUTERS) (REUTERS / Reuters)In the fourth quarter, WK Kellogg's revenue decreased by 2.7%, reflecting a 10% volume decline offset by price increases.Pilnick explained that affordable protein sources open up a new frontier for the cereal maker, which spun off from Kellogg’s snack business last year. In an interview with Yahoo Finance, he reiterated that cereal demand is "durable" as consumers’ preferences change.Pilnick added that a focus on nutrition also unlocks the premium market for WK Kellogg too, as shown by the company's Eat Your Mouth Off brand, the first cereal of its kind with 22 grams of plant-based protein and zero sugar.Innovating with new flavors, packaging, and marketingReimagining classics was another key strategy execs pointed to.They held up flavor innovation as one tactic. WK Kellogg's Pilnick said the company saw success bringing back customers with strawberry Frosted Flakes last year and the return of chocolate Frosted Flakes.J.M. Smucker Co.'s slide from its presentation at CAGNY 2024 teased a new flavor that will be added to the Uncrustables lineup in September. (Yahoo Finance)Meanwhile, J.M. Smucker (SJM) said it's adding raspberry Uncrustables to its lineup in September 2024 as it aims to deliver $800 million in net sales for its Uncrustables brand this fiscal year. The new flavor is part of a larger effort to lean into "a flavor for every day of the week."The company also announced its JIF peanut butter brand will launch a peanut butter and chocolate spread this summer. "Over 70% of peanut butter buyers are not purchasing a chocolate-flavor spread today, and we anticipate this innovation will be highly incremental to the brand," J.M. Smucker CEO Mark Smucker said.Packaging innovation offers another opportunity. PepsiCo chairman and CEO Ramon Laguarta said the company has invested in updating its packaging for “portion control” and “portability” as customers snack more throughout the day.PepsiCo chairman and CEO Ramon Luis Laguarta presents at CAGNY 2024. (Yahoo Finance)“We want to make sure that consumers can find us in many more occasions,” he said. Pepsi is also leaning into powders and tablets, “giving consumers the opportunity to find Gatorade or to use Gatorade in a much different way.”Food giants are also reengaging consumers through marketing campaigns with new partners.Hershey, for example, excited the CAGNY conference crowd by bringing in NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal to announce a partnership to “win” in the gummy segment, the fastest-growing sweets segment. Conagra Brands, meanwhile, shared that Dolly Parton's baking line is expanding into frozen shelves.Companies are looking for partnerships beyond grocery store shelves too. They're eager to tap into the market for dining away from home, which has seen prices continue to grow.For instance, did you know McCormick (MKC) launched a limited-time offering with McDonald's (MCD) in February for the McSpicy sandwich in the UK with Frank's RedHot sauce? Or that it teamed up with Wendy's (WEN) to launch a breakfast burrito served with Cholula hot sauce?“We're excited to continue to leverage our brands and our hot and spicy flavors to further penetrate menus and add the heat in away-from-home channels,” McCormick CFO Michael Smith said.The buzz around M&AWhile no major announcements were made, many companies teased that they're open to dealmaking but are waiting for the right company to come along.WK Kellogg's Pilnick said potential targets "would likely be [in the] center of the food business where our brands would resonate because you'd get cost synergies." However, he noted that WK Kellogg is not focused on M&A right now.Mondelēz CEO Dirk Van de Put gave investors insight into its M&A process. The company begins by building relationships with about 30 to 40 companies, most of which are family-owned, making gaining trust on both sides crucial."We can't forecast the timetable, but what I can say is that the pipeline is active," Van de Put said. Deals are getting “more expensive because there's more interest," he added. "We want to stay very disciplined."However, the next major food deal may not be a traditional acquisition.Mizuho's Baumgartner told Yahoo Finance that investors could see deals similar to Walmart's acquisition of Vizio, in which "food staples companies [acquire] differentiated tech companies" to gain a deeper understanding of consumers.—Brooke DiPalma is a senior reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter at @BrookeDiPalma or email her at [email protected] the latest earnings reports and analysis, earnings whispers and expectations, and company earnings news, click hereRead the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance

Yahoo Finance

Food companies detail 3 big trends in packaged goods right now

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/food-companies-detail-3-big-trends-in-packaged-goods-right-now-184226912.html

71ffec86-ab06-412e-a006-2a7d90537490

HSY

The yearly results for The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) were released last week, making it a good time to revisit its performance. Hershey reported in line with analyst predictions, delivering revenues of US$11b and statutory earnings per share of US$9.06, suggesting the business is executing well and in line with its plan. Earnings are an important time for investors, as they can track a company's performance, look at what the analysts are forecasting for next year, and see if there's been a change in sentiment towards the company. So we collected the latest post-earnings statutory consensus estimates to see what could be in store for next year. Check out our latest analysis for Hershey earnings-and-revenue-growthTaking into account the latest results, the current consensus from Hershey's 23 analysts is for revenues of US$11.5b in 2024. This would reflect a reasonable 3.1% increase on its revenue over the past 12 months. Statutory earnings per share are predicted to increase 4.8% to US$9.57. In the lead-up to this report, the analysts had been modelling revenues of US$11.5b and earnings per share (EPS) of US$9.62 in 2024. The consensus analysts don't seem to have seen anything in these results that would have changed their view on the business, given there's been no major change to their estimates.The analysts reconfirmed their price target of US$212, showing that the business is executing well and in line with expectations. It could also be instructive to look at the range of analyst estimates, to evaluate how different the outlier opinions are from the mean. There are some variant perceptions on Hershey, with the most bullish analyst valuing it at US$238 and the most bearish at US$183 per share. With such a narrow range of valuations, the analysts apparently share similar views on what they think the business is worth.One way to get more context on these forecasts is to look at how they compare to both past performance, and how other companies in the same industry are performing. We would highlight that Hershey's revenue growth is expected to slow, with the forecast 3.1% annualised growth rate until the end of 2024 being well below the historical 8.4% p.a. growth over the last five years. Juxtapose this against the other companies in the industry with analyst coverage, which are forecast to grow their revenues (in aggregate) 2.5% annually. So it's pretty clear that, while Hershey's revenue growth is expected to slow, it's expected to grow roughly in line with the industry.Story continuesThe Bottom LineThe most important thing to take away is that there's been no major change in sentiment, with the analysts reconfirming that the business is performing in line with their previous earnings per share estimates. Happily, there were no real changes to revenue forecasts, with the business still expected to grow in line with the overall industry. The consensus price target held steady at US$212, with the latest estimates not enough to have an impact on their price targets.With that said, the long-term trajectory of the company's earnings is a lot more important than next year. At Simply Wall St, we have a full range of analyst estimates for Hershey going out to 2026, and you can see them free on our platform here..That said, it's still necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Hershey , and understanding this should be part of your investment process.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

Here's What Analysts Are Forecasting For The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) After Its Full-Year Results

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/heres-analysts-forecasting-hershey-company-140149611.html

15293feb-c4c9-35f4-b9cb-59e328cf8e19

HSY

Investors are often guided by the idea of discovering 'the next big thing', even if that means buying 'story stocks' without any revenue, let alone profit. But as Peter Lynch said in One Up On Wall Street, 'Long shots almost never pay off.' Loss-making companies are always racing against time to reach financial sustainability, so investors in these companies may be taking on more risk than they should.If this kind of company isn't your style, you like companies that generate revenue, and even earn profits, then you may well be interested in Hershey (NYSE:HSY). Even if this company is fairly valued by the market, investors would agree that generating consistent profits will continue to provide Hershey with the means to add long-term value to shareholders. Check out our latest analysis for Hershey Hershey's Earnings Per Share Are GrowingGenerally, companies experiencing growth in earnings per share (EPS) should see similar trends in share price. That makes EPS growth an attractive quality for any company. Hershey managed to grow EPS by 14% per year, over three years. That growth rate is fairly good, assuming the company can keep it up.One way to double-check a company's growth is to look at how its revenue, and earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) margins are changing. EBIT margins for Hershey remained fairly unchanged over the last year, however the company should be pleased to report its revenue growth for the period of 7.2% to US$11b. That's progress.In the chart below, you can see how the company has grown earnings and revenue, over time. For finer detail, click on the image.earnings-and-revenue-historyFortunately, we've got access to analyst forecasts of Hershey's future profits. You can do your own forecasts without looking, or you can take a peek at what the professionals are predicting.Are Hershey Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?Owing to the size of Hershey, we wouldn't expect insiders to hold a significant proportion of the company. But we are reassured by the fact they have invested in the company. Holding US$86m worth of stock in the company is no laughing matter and insiders will be committed in delivering the best outcomes for shareholders. That's certainly enough to let shareholders know that management will be very focussed on long term growth.Story continuesShould You Add Hershey To Your Watchlist?One positive for Hershey is that it is growing EPS. That's nice to see. To add an extra spark to the fire, significant insider ownership in the company is another highlight. The combination definitely favoured by investors so consider keeping the company on a watchlist. Before you take the next step you should know about the 1 warning sign for Hershey that we have uncovered.There's always the possibility of doing well buying stocks that are not growing earnings and do not have insiders buying shares. But for those who consider these important metrics, we encourage you to check out companies that do have those features. You can access a tailored list of companies which have demonstrated growth backed by recent insider purchases.Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

Here's Why We Think Hershey (NYSE:HSY) Is Well Worth Watching

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/heres-why-think-hershey-nyse-140014671.html

f0d6e835-14d7-38e7-a794-500bc07f6b81

HSY

In this article, we will be taking a look at the 20 Most Popular Religions in the World. You can also take a detailed look at the 5 Most Popular Religions in the World.Religion is an important part of human civilization, shaping cultures, societies, and individuals for millennia. Across the globe, people find solace, meaning, and community in their religious beliefs and practices. From the ancient rituals of Hinduism to the modern teachings of Scientology, the world is adorned with a rich tapestry of spiritual traditions.Beyond major world religions, a multitude of spiritual paths and traditions enrich the human experience. Sikhism, with approximately 30 million adherents, blends elements of Hinduism and Islam, emphasizing the principles of equality, service, and devotion to God. Jainism, with around 4.2 million followers, espouses non-violence, truthfulness, and asceticism, seeking liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.Moving beyond the boundaries of organized religion, indigenous spiritualities such as African Traditional Religions and Native American religions celebrate the interconnectedness of all life and the sacredness of the natural world. Animism, practiced by millions worldwide, attributes spiritual significance to natural phenomena, animals, and ancestors, fostering harmony, respect, and stewardship for the Earth. When considering the distribution of religious populations globally, it becomes apparent that certain regions exhibit higher levels of religious adherence than others.With a number of religions found across the globe, it is essential to note how religion plays a significant role in shaping cultural norms and values, which in turn influence economic behaviours and outcomes. According to the World Values Survey, a global research project exploring values and beliefs, religiosity is positively correlated with trust in others and social cohesion, both of which are crucial for economic development. Countries with higher levels of religiosity tend to have higher levels of trust and cooperation, which can facilitate more efficient markets and higher levels of economic growth.Story continuesFor exmaple, a research conducted by economists Robert Putnam and David Campbell in their book "American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us" found a positive correlation between religiosity and levels of trust and cooperation in the United States. They observed that individuals who attend religious services regularly are more likely to engage in civic activities, volunteerism, and charitable giving, indicating higher levels of trust and cooperation within religious communities.Moreover, religious institutions often serve as important providers of social services, particularly in developing countries where government resources may be limited. For instance, according to the World Bank, faith-based organisations provide a substantial proportion of healthcare services in many developing countries, with estimates ranging from 30% to 70%. These services contribute to improving health outcomes and human capital development, which are essential drivers of long-term economic growth.Religious beliefs can also influence individual behaviors and attitudes towards work, entrepreneurship, and savings, all of which have implications for economic productivity and growth. For instance, research has shown that Protestant work ethic, which emphasizes hard work, discipline, and frugality, is associated with higher levels of economic prosperity. Countries with a Protestant heritage, such as those in Northern Europe and North America, tend to have higher levels of economic development and innovation compared to countries with different religious traditions.Additionally, religious diversity within societies can impact economic outcomes, with some studies suggesting that greater religious diversity may be associated with higher levels of economic growth. A study published in the Journal of Economic Growth found that countries with higher levels of religious diversity tend to have higher levels of economic growth, as measured by GDP per capita. This relationship is attributed to the diversity of skills, knowledge, and perspectives that religiously diverse societies bring, leading to greater innovation and creativity. A great example to understand the correlation between religion and economic growth can be of Singapore.Singapore is home to many diverse religious communities, including Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Taoism, among others. Despite its small size and lack of natural resources, Singapore has experienced remarkable economic growth over the past few decades, transforming from a developing nation into one of the world's wealthiest countries in terms of GDP per capita. The study cited in the Journal of Economic Growth suggests that Singapore's religious diversity has played a significant role in its economic success. Religious diversity in Singapore has fostered a dynamic and cosmopolitan society, attracting talent, ideas, and investment from around the world. The presence of diverse religious communities has created a vibrant cultural landscape, fostering creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship.The Corporate World & ReligionLike economic growth, religious values often manifest in business practices, influencing decision-making processes, organizational culture, and interactions within the corporate world. For instance, individuals may integrate their religious beliefs into their leadership styles, fostering environments that prioritize integrity, compassion, and ethical conduct. The Quaker-founded company, The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY), exemplifies this with its commitment to ethical sourcing, sustainability, and community development, reflecting Quaker principles of social responsibility and stewardship. For example The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY)'s Cocoa For Good program, launched in 2018, aims to address the most pressing issues facing cocoa-growing communities, including poverty, child labor, and environmental sustainability. Through Cocoa For Good, The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) has pledged to invest $500 million by 2030 to support cocoa-growing communities in West Africa, where the majority of the world's cocoa is produced. The program focuses on promoting sustainable livelihoods for cocoa farmers, improving access to education and healthcare, and combating child labor and deforestation.Religious values can also influence corporate policies and practices related to employee well-being, diversity, and inclusivity. For example, companies with Christian founders may prioritize family-friendly policies, such as flexible working hours or parental leave, reflecting values of compassion and respect for family life. Additionally, religious organisations often promote inclusivity and accommodation for employees of diverse religious backgrounds. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), founded by Christian entrepreneurs Bill Gates and Paul Allen, is known for its inclusive workplace culture, which accommodates employees' religious practices and beliefs. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) facilitates religious holiday observance by providing flexibility in work schedules or time off to allow employees to celebrate important religious festivals or observances. Furthermore, Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) offers cultural sensitivity training programs to foster understanding and respect for diverse religious beliefs and practices among employees, which speaks for its commitment with upholding their values of inclusivity.Furthermore, religious values shape corporate philanthropy and social responsibility initiatives, with companies often aligning their charitable giving with the principles and causes supported by their founders' faith traditions. For instance, the Christian-founded privately owned fast-food chain Chick-fil-A has donated millions of dollars to organisations that promote Christian values, including youth development programs and initiatives supporting traditional family values. Similarly, Islamic financial institutions adhere to Sharia law principles in their banking practices and often prioritize charitable giving to support causes such as poverty alleviation, education, and humanitarian aid.Let's now head over to the list of the most popular faiths in the world.20 Most Popular Religions in the WorldMethodologyTo shortlist the 20 Most Popular Religions in the World, we consulted multiple sources like Pew Research, The Register, American Civil Liberties Union, and Statistics & Data Organisation to gain information on the most popular religions in the world and to learn about the number of adherents of these top  20 Most Popular Religions in the World. We mostly relied on the American Civil Liberties Union’s database to determine the number of adherents for all the religions. The list of the 20 Most Popular Religions in the World has been ranked in ascending order - from religions with lesser number of adherents to higher number of adherents.By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years. Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders – check details here.20 Most Popular Religions in the World20. ScientologyNo. of Adherents: 0.5 millionScientology is a relatively new religious movement founded by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard in the early 1950s. It incorporates elements of self-help psychology, spirituality, and cosmology. Central to Scientology is the belief in the immortal soul, or "thetan," which has lived through numerous past lives and can be freed from negative experiences through a process called "auditing." Auditing involves the use of an electronic device called an E-meter to identify and alleviate spiritual traumas or "engrams." Scientologists also follow a hierarchical system of spiritual advancement and participate in various courses and counseling sessions offered by the Church of Scientology. The religion has been subject to controversy and criticism, including allegations of financial exploitation and aggressive legal tactics against critics. 19. RastafariNo. of Adherents: 0.6 millionRastafari is a spiritual and cultural movement that emerged in Jamaica during the 1930s, inspired by the coronation of Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, whom Rastafarians believe to be the messiah or divine incarnation (Jah). Rastafari draws upon elements of Christianity, Pan-Africanism, and Jamaican cultural traditions. It emphasizes the worship of God, often referred to as Jah, and the pursuit of righteousness, social justice, and repatriation to Africa. Rastafarians reject Babylon, a term used to represent oppressive systems of government, inequality, and materialism, and advocate for the liberation of African people from colonialism and racism. Rastafari culture is characterised by reggae music, dreadlocks, vegetarianism or Ital diet, and the sacramental use of cannabis as a spiritual aid.18. Unitarian UniversalismNo. of Adherents: 0.8 millionUnitarian Universalism is a liberal religious movement that emerged in the United States in the early 19th century, formed by the merger of Unitarianism and Universalism. It emphasizes the freedom of belief, the search for truth, and the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. Unitarian Universalists draw upon diverse religious traditions, philosophies, and ethical principles to create a supportive community that encourages spiritual growth, social justice, and environmental stewardship. The movement values inclusivity, tolerance, and acceptance of diverse identities, beliefs, and lifestyles. Unitarian Universalist congregations provide a space for worship, religious education, social activism, and fellowship, and often engage in interfaith dialogue and community service.17. Wicca/NeopaganismNo. of Adherents: 1 millionWicca is a modern pagan religious movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, drawing upon pre-Christian European traditions, folklore, and occult practices. Wiccans worship a diverse pantheon of deities, including a god and goddess representing the divine masculine and feminine energies, and often incorporate rituals, spells, and magical practices into their worship. Wicca emphasizes reverence for nature, the cycles of the moon and seasons, and the practice of witchcraft as a means of spiritual connection, personal empowerment, and manifestation. Neopaganism is a broader umbrella term encompassing various contemporary pagan and polytheistic traditions inspired by ancient religious practices, mythology, and nature spirituality. Adherents of Wicca and Neo-paganism often celebrate seasonal festivals (Sabbats), perform rituals in sacred circles, and participate in community gatherings and covens.16. AnimismNo. of Adherents: 1.9 millionAnimism is a worldview and religious belief system that attributes spiritual significance and personhood to natural phenomena, animals, plants, and inanimate objects. Animistic beliefs are found in indigenous cultures around the world and often involve rituals, offerings, and ceremonies to communicate with and honor the spirits or deities believed to inhabit the natural world. Animism is rooted in the belief that all living beings and elements possess a spiritual essence or soul, and that humans are interconnected with the environment and other forms of life. Animistic traditions vary widely depending on cultural context, geographical region, and local interpretations of spiritual practices. Animism emphasises respect for nature, harmony with the environment, and the preservation of ancestral traditions and wisdom.15. TenrikyoNo. of Adherents: 2 millionTenrikyo is a Japanese new religious movement founded in the 19th century by Miki Nakayama, known as Oyasama. It is based on the belief in the "Joyous Life" (Anoyo-no-Ura), a state of spiritual and physical well-being achieved through faith in God, called Tenri-O-no-Mikoto. Tenrikyo teaches the importance of helping others, practicing gratitude, and living in harmony with the natural world. Adherents of Tenrikyo engage in rituals, prayers, and acts of charity to cultivate a sense of inner joy and to spread harmony and happiness to others. The religion emphasises the concepts of salvation for all people, the unity of humanity, and the interdependence of all existence.14. ZoroastrianismNo. of Adherents: 2.6 millionZoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, founded by the prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra) in ancient Persia over 3,000 years ago. It is centered around the belief in Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity who embodies truth, righteousness, and order, and the cosmic struggle between good (Asha) and evil (Druj). Zoroastrianism emphasizes ethical dualism, promoting virtuous thoughts, words, and deeds to uphold cosmic order and combat moral corruption. Key Zoroastrian teachings include the importance of free will, the judgment of souls after death, and the eventual triumph of good over evil. Zoroastrian worship involves rituals, prayers, and ceremonies performed in fire temples, where fire symbolizes divine illumination and purity. Zoroastrian communities are primarily found in India, Iran, and diaspora communities around the world.13. Cao DaiNo. of Adherents: 4 millionCao Dai, also known as Caodaism, is a syncretic religion that originated in Vietnam in the early 20th century. It combines elements of various religious traditions, including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and indigenous Vietnamese beliefs. Cao Dai followers worship a supreme deity known as the "Cao Dai" or "Highest Power," along with other divine beings, saints, and ancestors. The religion teaches the pursuit of spiritual development, moral integrity, and social harmony. Cao Dai emphasizes the concept of karma, reincarnation, and the ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Adherents of Cao Dai engage in rituals, prayers, and meditation practices to cultivate spiritual growth and foster a sense of universal love and compassion.12. ShintoNo. of Adherents: 4 millionShinto is the indigenous religion of Japan, rooted in the worship of kami, divine spirits or deities believed to inhabit natural phenomena, objects, and ancestors. Shinto rituals and practices are centered around the veneration of kami, purification rites, and expressions of gratitude for blessings received. Shinto does not have a single founder or central scripture but is characterized by reverence for tradition, purity, and harmony with nature. Shinto rituals are performed at shrines (jinja) and include offerings, prayers, festivals, and ceremonies to mark important life events and seasonal changes. Shinto coexists with other religions in Japan, such as Buddhism, with many Japanese people practicing both Shinto and Buddhist traditions simultaneously.11. JainismNo. of Adherents: 4.2 millionJainism is an ancient religion that originated in India over 2,500 years ago, founded by spiritual teachers known as Tirthankaras, the most recent of whom was Mahavira. Jainism emphasizes non-violence (ahimsa), compassion, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation (moksha) through self-discipline and ethical conduct. Jains believe in the existence of eternal souls (jivas) trapped in a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), and seek to attain liberation by overcoming attachment, ignorance, and karma. Key Jain principles include non-violence, truthfulness, non-possessiveness, and celibacy. Jains adhere to a strict vegetarian diet and follow practices such as meditation, fasting, and ritual purification. Jainism is divided into two major sects, Digambara and Svetambara, each with its own interpretations of Jain teachings and practices.10. Bahá'í FaithNo. of Adherents: 5 millionThe Bahá'í Faith is a monotheistic religion founded by Bahá'u'lláh in the mid-19th century in Persia (present-day Iran). It emphasizes the unity of all religions and humanity, advocating for world peace, social justice, and the elimination of prejudice and inequality. Bahá'ís believe in the essential unity of all religions, viewing them as successive stages in the spiritual evolution of humanity, and recognize prophets and founders of major world religions, including Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, and Bahá'u'lláh. The Bahá'í Faith teaches the importance of independent investigation of truth, the harmony of science and religion, and the equality of men and women. Adherents of the Bahá'í Faith engage in community-building activities, promote education, and work towards the betterment of society.9. JudaismNo. of Adherents: 14.7 millionJudaism is one of the oldest monotheistic Abrahamic religions, with roots dating back over 3,000 years to the covenant between God and the patriarch Abraham. Central to Judaism is the belief in one God (Yahweh) who revealed himself to the Jewish people through prophets, including Moses, who received the Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible). Judaism is characterized by its emphasis on ethical monotheism, the importance of study and interpretation of sacred texts, and adherence to religious practices and rituals, such as prayer, Sabbath observance, dietary laws (kashrut), and circumcision. Judaism encompasses a diversity of religious movements, including Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist Judaism, each with its own interpretations of Jewish law and tradition.8. JucheNo. of Adherents: 19 millionJuche is a political and religious ideology originating in North Korea, advocated for by Kim Il-sung as the guiding philosophy of the nation. Emphasizing self-reliance, autonomy, and nationalism, Juche promotes the idea of individuals and the state relying on their own resources and strengths rather than seeking external assistance. It blends elements of Marxism-Leninism with a focus on Korean traditions and values, perpetuating a cult of personality surrounding the Kim family dynasty. While serving as the official state ideology of North Korea, Juche is criticised for maintaining authoritarian rule and human rights abuses, yet it remains central to North Korean identity and ideology.7. SikhismNo. of Adherents: 26 millionSikhism is a monotheistic religion founded by Guru Nanak in the late 15th century in the Punjab region of South Asia, which is now divided between India and Pakistan. Sikhs believe in one God, Waheguru, and follow the teachings of the Ten Sikh Gurus, recorded in the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture. Sikhism emphasizes the principles of equality, social justice, service, and devotion to God through meditation and selfless action (seva). Sikhs are recognizable by their adherence to the Five Ks, which include wearing the Five Kakaars: Kesh (uncut hair), Kara (steel bracelet), Kanga (wooden comb), Kachera (cotton undergarment), and Kirpan (ceremonial dagger). The Sikh community gathers in Gurdwaras for worship, community meals (langar), and religious ceremonies.6. African Traditional ReligionsNo. of Adherents: 100 millionAfrican Traditional Religions encompass a diverse array of indigenous beliefs, practices, and rituals across the African continent. These religions are deeply rooted in the cultures, traditions, and spiritual beliefs of various ethnic groups and communities. African Traditional Religions typically involve the worship of ancestral spirits, deities, and natural forces, with rituals and ceremonies performed to maintain harmony with the spirit world and the natural environment. Practices may include offerings, prayers, divination, and ceremonies to mark significant life events, such as birth, marriage, and death. While Christianity and Islam have had significant influence in Africa, many people still practice African Traditional Religions alongside or syncretized with these global religions.Click to continue reading and see the 5 Most Popular Religions in the World.Suggested Articles:20 Countries With The Most Religious Freedom In The World20 Most Religious Countries in the World25 Most Popular Spirits in the WorldDisclosure: none. 20 Most Popular Religions in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

20 Most Popular Religions in the World

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/20-most-popular-religions-world-193742579.html

963eb2eb-bd1f-3825-8dfc-8698020b883c

HUBB

Hubbell Incorporated (NYSE:HUBB) led the NYSE gainers with a relatively large price hike in the past couple of weeks. The company is now trading at yearly-high levels following the recent surge in its share price. With many analysts covering the large-cap stock, we may expect any price-sensitive announcements have already been factored into the stock’s share price. But what if there is still an opportunity to buy? Let’s take a look at Hubbell’s outlook and value based on the most recent financial data to see if the opportunity still exists. View our latest analysis for Hubbell Is Hubbell Still Cheap?According to our valuation model, the stock is currently overvalued by about 22%, trading at US$359 compared to our intrinsic value of $294.16. This means that the buying opportunity has probably disappeared for now. Furthermore, Hubbell’s share price also seems relatively stable compared to the rest of the market, as indicated by its low beta. If you believe the share price should eventually reach its true value, a low beta could suggest it is unlikely to rapidly do so anytime soon, and once it’s there, it may be hard to fall back down into an attractive buying range.What kind of growth will Hubbell generate?earnings-and-revenue-growthInvestors looking for growth in their portfolio may want to consider the prospects of a company before buying its shares. Buying a great company with a robust outlook at a cheap price is always a good investment, so let’s also take a look at the company's future expectations. With profit expected to grow by 33% over the next couple of years, the future seems bright for Hubbell. It looks like higher cash flow is on the cards for the stock, which should feed into a higher share valuation.What This Means For YouAre you a shareholder? It seems like the market has well and truly priced in HUBB’s positive outlook, with shares trading above its fair value. At this current price, shareholders may be asking a different question – should I sell? If you believe HUBB should trade below its current price, selling high and buying it back up again when its price falls towards its real value can be profitable. But before you make this decision, take a look at whether its fundamentals have changed.Story continuesAre you a potential investor? If you’ve been keeping an eye on HUBB for a while, now may not be the best time to enter into the stock. The price has surpassed its true value, which means there’s no upside from mispricing. However, the optimistic prospect is encouraging for HUBB, which means it’s worth diving deeper into other factors in order to take advantage of the next price drop.In light of this, if you'd like to do more analysis on the company, it's vital to be informed of the risks involved. Case in point: We've spotted 2 warning signs for Hubbell you should be aware of.If you are no longer interested in Hubbell, you can use our free platform to see our list of over 50 other stocks with a high growth potential.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

What Does Hubbell Incorporated's (NYSE:HUBB) Share Price Indicate?

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/does-hubbell-incorporateds-nyse-hubb-132454440.html

8260c66a-cecc-3b02-aa4e-daf30811d2f2

HUBB

Hubbell (HUBB) has been one of the most searched-for stocks on Zacks.com lately. So, you might want to look at some of the facts that could shape the stock's performance in the near term.Over the past month, shares of this electrical products manufacturer have returned +7.4%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +3% change. During this period, the Zacks Manufacturing - Electrical Utilities industry, which Hubbell falls in, has gained 7.8%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.Earnings Estimate RevisionsRather than focusing on anything else, we at Zacks prioritize evaluating the change in a company's earnings projection. This is because we believe the fair value for its stock is determined by the present value of its future stream of earnings.We essentially look at how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to reflect the impact of the latest business trends. And if earnings estimates go up for a company, the fair value for its stock goes up. A higher fair value than the current market price drives investors' interest in buying the stock, leading to its price moving higher. This is why empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.Hubbell is expected to post earnings of $3.54 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -1.9%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -7.6%.The consensus earnings estimate of $16.39 for the current fiscal year indicates a year-over-year change of +6.9%. This estimate has changed +0.1% over the last 30 days.Story continuesFor the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $17.58 indicates a change of +7.3% from what Hubbell is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed +0.3%.Having a strong externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, offers a more conclusive picture of a stock's price direction in the near term, since it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. Due to the size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, Hubbell is rated Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:12 Month EPSRevenue Growth ForecastWhile earnings growth is arguably the most superior indicator of a company's financial health, nothing happens as such if a business isn't able to grow its revenues. After all, it's nearly impossible for a company to increase its earnings for an extended period without increasing its revenues. So, it's important to know a company's potential revenue growth.For Hubbell, the consensus sales estimate for the current quarter of $1.4 billion indicates a year-over-year change of +8.7%. For the current and next fiscal years, $5.87 billion and $6.16 billion estimates indicate +9.2% and +5% changes, respectively.Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryHubbell reported revenues of $1.35 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +10.4%. EPS of $3.69 for the same period compares with $2.60 a year ago.Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.31 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +2.53%. The EPS surprise was +2.79%.Over the last four quarters, Hubbell surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates three times over this period.ValuationNo investment decision can be efficient without considering a stock's valuation. Whether a stock's current price rightly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects is an essential determinant of its future price performance.Comparing the current value of a company's valuation multiples, such as its price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), to its own historical values helps ascertain whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, whereas comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of how reasonable its stock price is.The Zacks Value Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which pays close attention to both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics to grade stocks from A to F (an An is better than a B; a B is better than a C; and so on), is pretty helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.Hubbell is graded C on this front, indicating that it is trading at par with its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.ConclusionThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about Hubbell. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHubbell Inc (HUBB) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Is Most-Watched Stock Hubbell Inc (HUBB) Worth Betting on Now?

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/most-watched-stock-hubbell-inc-140012723.html

a6b7a785-d943-36c6-b22b-d8137be9a21e

HUBB

In the latest market close, Hubbell (HUBB) reached $380.65, with a -1.83% movement compared to the previous day. The stock trailed the S&P 500, which registered a daily loss of 1.02%. Elsewhere, the Dow saw a downswing of 1.04%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq depreciated by 1.65%.Shares of the electrical products manufacturer have appreciated by 10.47% over the course of the past month, outperforming the Industrial Products sector's gain of 5.56% and the S&P 500's gain of 3.64%.Analysts and investors alike will be keeping a close eye on the performance of Hubbell in its upcoming earnings disclosure. On that day, Hubbell is projected to report earnings of $3.54 per share, which would represent a year-over-year decline of 1.94%. Meanwhile, the latest consensus estimate predicts the revenue to be $1.4 billion, indicating an 8.7% increase compared to the same quarter of the previous year.For the full year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates are projecting earnings of $16.39 per share and revenue of $5.87 billion, which would represent changes of +6.91% and +9.24%, respectively, from the prior year.Any recent changes to analyst estimates for Hubbell should also be noted by investors. These revisions typically reflect the latest short-term business trends, which can change frequently. As a result, we can interpret positive estimate revisions as a good sign for the company's business outlook.Research indicates that these estimate revisions are directly correlated with near-term share price momentum. Investors can capitalize on this by using the Zacks Rank. This model considers these estimate changes and provides a simple, actionable rating system.The Zacks Rank system, ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), possesses a remarkable history of outdoing, externally audited, with #1 stocks returning an average annual gain of +25% since 1988. The Zacks Consensus EPS estimate remained stagnant within the past month. Hubbell is holding a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold) right now.Story continuesIn terms of valuation, Hubbell is currently trading at a Forward P/E ratio of 23.66. This denotes no noticeable deviation relative to the industry's average Forward P/E of 23.66.Investors should also note that HUBB has a PEG ratio of 2.37 right now. The PEG ratio is similar to the widely-used P/E ratio, but this metric also takes the company's expected earnings growth rate into account. The Manufacturing - Electrical Utilities was holding an average PEG ratio of 2.37 at yesterday's closing price.The Manufacturing - Electrical Utilities industry is part of the Industrial Products sector. At present, this industry carries a Zacks Industry Rank of 92, placing it within the top 37% of over 250 industries.The Zacks Industry Rank assesses the vigor of our specific industry groups by computing the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks incorporated in the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.Be sure to follow all of these stock-moving metrics, and many more, on Zacks.com.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHubbell Inc (HUBB) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Hubbell (HUBB) Dips More Than Broader Market: What You Should Know

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hubbell-hubb-dips-more-broader-225019800.html

f3515181-b146-3889-84a9-bc391a0c015d

HUBB

Hubbell (HUBB) closed the most recent trading day at $387.43, moving -1.45% from the previous trading session. This change lagged the S&P 500's 0.11% loss on the day. At the same time, the Dow added 0.12%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq lost 0.41%.Shares of the electrical products manufacturer have appreciated by 8.3% over the course of the past month, outperforming the Industrial Products sector's gain of 5.17% and the S&P 500's gain of 2.7%.Market participants will be closely following the financial results of Hubbell in its upcoming release. The company is forecasted to report an EPS of $3.54, showcasing a 1.94% downward movement from the corresponding quarter of the prior year. In the meantime, our current consensus estimate forecasts the revenue to be $1.4 billion, indicating an 8.7% growth compared to the corresponding quarter of the prior year.For the annual period, the Zacks Consensus Estimates anticipate earnings of $16.40 per share and a revenue of $5.87 billion, signifying shifts of +6.98% and +9.24%, respectively, from the last year.Investors might also notice recent changes to analyst estimates for Hubbell. These latest adjustments often mirror the shifting dynamics of short-term business patterns. Therefore, positive revisions in estimates convey analysts' confidence in the company's business performance and profit potential.Empirical research indicates that these revisions in estimates have a direct correlation with impending stock price performance. To benefit from this, we have developed the Zacks Rank, a proprietary model which takes these estimate changes into account and provides an actionable rating system.The Zacks Rank system, which ranges from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive outside-audited track record of outperformance, with #1 stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has shifted 0.05% upward. Right now, Hubbell possesses a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).Story continuesFrom a valuation perspective, Hubbell is currently exchanging hands at a Forward P/E ratio of 23.98. This represents no noticeable deviation compared to its industry's average Forward P/E of 23.98.It is also worth noting that HUBB currently has a PEG ratio of 2.4. The PEG ratio is akin to the commonly utilized P/E ratio, but this measure also incorporates the company's anticipated earnings growth rate. HUBB's industry had an average PEG ratio of 2.4 as of yesterday's close.The Manufacturing - Electrical Utilities industry is part of the Industrial Products sector. At present, this industry carries a Zacks Industry Rank of 89, placing it within the top 36% of over 250 industries.The Zacks Industry Rank is ordered from best to worst in terms of the average Zacks Rank of the individual companies within each of these sectors. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.Be sure to use Zacks.com to monitor all these stock-influencing metrics, and more, throughout the forthcoming trading sessions.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHubbell Inc (HUBB) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Hubbell (HUBB) Sees a More Significant Dip Than Broader Market: Some Facts to Know

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hubbell-hubb-sees-more-significant-220018255.html

20f0aa33-1e14-3032-ba95-c182c21abe9c

HUM

In this article, we discuss the 13 best stocks to buy now according to billionaire Cliff Asness. If you want to read about some more stocks in the Asness portfolio, go directly to 5 Best Stocks To Buy Now According To Billionaire Cliff Asness.Cliff Asness, the head of AQR Capital Management, stands out as one of Wall Street's most accomplished hedge fund managers. AQR, short for Applied Quantitative Research, traces its origins to Goldman Sachs' asset management division, a leading global investment bank. With an initial investment of $10 million from a select group of investors in 1995, Asness utilized quantitative methods to swiftly expand the Goldman Sachs Global Alpha Fund to over $100 million within a matter of months. Despite Asness departing from Goldman Sachs to establish his hedge fund in 1998, the Alpha Fund continued its growth trajectory, managing assets worth $12 billion by 2007.Cliff Asness often appears on television and podcasts, where he shares his expertise on financial matters. In a Bloomberg podcast last year, he expressed apprehension about overinflated stock prices, cautioned about challenges in the commercial real estate sector, and even forecasted the possibility of a looming financial crisis.“My biggest concern is stocks and bonds seem to be taking a very, very different view. Bonds are pricing in multiple, severe cuts over the next year to two years. That is a forecast for a recession, and not a mild one. Equities are whistling past the graveyard. If inflation stays sticky, or it comes down because we enter a non-trivial recession, it’s equities that I think are a scary place. They’re not priced very consistently with bonds, and we’re going to find out who’s right in the next year.”Asness recently grabbed attention by reiterating his stance on emerging-market equities outperforming the US market, despite this trade's lackluster performance in recent years. AQR allocates approximately $8 billion of its $99 billion under management to an emerging-market equities portfolio, managed collaboratively like its other funds. This perspective challenging the dominance of US stocks aligns AQR with other major players in the industry, such as Morgan Stanley Investment Management.Story continuesIn addition, the billionaire's hedge fund closed out 2023 with impressive double-digit returns across several of its funds, driven by strong performance in stock selection, bonds, European natural gas, and iron ore, as reported by Reuters. The investment manager achieved a net return of 18.5% for the year in its AQR Absolute Return strategy, its longest-running multi-strategy fund. This marked a notable comparison to the almost 44% net return achieved in 2022. Asness had predicted in January 2023 that this particular investing approach, involving "going long cheap companies and shorting expensive ones" within specific sectors, would be particularly appealing for the year. With that in mind, lets look at some of the top stocks in the AQR Capital Management portfolio, which include the likes of Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), and Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG).13 Best Stocks To Buy Now According To Billionaire Cliff AsnessCliff Asness of AQR Capital ManagementOur MethodologyThese were picked from the investment portfolio of AQR Capital Management at the end of the fourth quarter of 2023. To provide readers with a more comprehensive overview of the companies, the analyst ratings for each firm are mentioned alongside other details. A database of around 933 elite hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey in the fourth quarter of 2023 was used to quantify the popularity of each stock in the hedge fund universe.13. Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 86AQR Capital Management's Stake: $351.6 millionHumana Inc. (NYSE:HUM), headquartered in Kentucky, offers fully insured medical and specialty health insurance benefits to its customers. Latest 13F filings show that AQR Capital Management owned 1.7 million shares of Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM) at the end of the fourth quarter of 2023 worth $351.6 million.On December 12, Argus upgraded Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM)’s stock from a Hold to a Buy rating, with a $550 price target. This upgrade followed the company's decision to discontinue merger discussions with The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI), a move perceived to have multiple downsides according to the analyst.By the end of last year’s fourth quarter, 86 out of the 933 hedge funds covered by Insider Monkey’s research had bought a stake in Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM). Ken Griffin’s Citadel Investment Group owned the biggest stake which was worth $688 million.Much like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), and Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG), Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM) is one of the best stocks to buy according to billionaire Cliff Asness.12. The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 76AQR Capital Management's Stake: $352.6 millionThe Cigna Group (NYSE:CI) is a for-profit American multinational managed healthcare and insurance company headquartered in Bloomfield, Connecticut. With a global presence spanning 30 countries, the company serves over 86 million customers and continues to be a prominent leader in providing global healthcare benefits. Securities filings show that AQR Capital Management owned over 1.179 million shares of The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI) at the end of December 2023 worth $352.6 million, representing 0.66% of the portfolio.As of the close of Q4 2023, 76 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database reported having stakes in The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI), a slight increase from the previous quarter. The consolidated worth of these stakes is more than $4.49 billion.Davis Funds mentioned The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI) in its Q3 2023 investor letter. Here is what the firm has to say:“In the attractive healthcare sector, we look beyond the obvious to identify businesses that simultaneously have exposure to this growth industry and also trade at low prices. We’re especially drawn to companies like Cigna Group, whose products or services play a part in helping to mitigate healthcare’s constantly rising costs. The healthcare industry has been a growing part of the U.S. economy for decades. As a result, many companies in this sector trade at high valuations reflecting their robust but well-known reputation for growth. For value-conscious investors like us, investing in healthcare requires looking beyond the obvious to identify businesses that have exposure to this growth industry but which trade at low prices. Furthermore, recognizing that the constantly rising cost of healthcare cannot go on forever, we have been particularly drawn to companies whose products or services play some role in managing or reducing the cost of care. As a result, we have positions in Cigna Group, a well-regarded provider of managed care.11. PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 38AQR Capital Management's Stake: $379.78 millionPulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM) is a prominent American residential home-construction company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. As of 2023, it held the position as the third-largest home-construction company in the United States in terms of the number of homes closed. Cliff Asness’ investment firm reduced its stake in PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM) by 11% to $379.78 million in the fourth quarter of 2023.In the fourth quarter, PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM) reported a profit of $711 million or $3.28 per share, a decrease from $882 million or $3.85 per share in the same period last year. The company sold 7,615 homes, which was below expectations, at an average price of $547,000, down from $561,000 a year ago. The decline in home sales was attributed to the surge in the average rate on a 30-year mortgage to nearly 8%, the highest level in two decades. These high rates led many potential homebuyers to postpone their purchases and prompted sellers to offer concessions. However, as mortgage rates moderated in the latter half of the quarter, PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM) experienced a 57% increase in net new orders to 6,214 homes valued at approximately $3.4 billion. This growth was driven by a more favorable selling environment and a decrease in cancellations, which decreased to 9% of backlog from 11% in the same quarter of the previous year.After looking through 933 hedge funds for their fourth quarter of 2023 shareholdings, Insider Monkey discovered that 38 were the firm’s investors.10. Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 91AQR Capital Management's Stake: $436.8 millionBroadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO) is a leading global technology company specializing in the design, development, and supply of semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions. Catering to a wide array of industries such as networking, storage, broadband, wireless, and industrial sectors, Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO) has established itself as a key player in the tech industry. Latest 13F filings show that AQR Capital Management owned 391,343 shares of Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO) at the end of December 2023 worth $436.8 millionAccording to data from Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, Ken Fisher’s Fisher Asset Management holds the largest stake in Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO), with 2.13 million shares valued at $2.37 billion. Overall, 91 hedge funds expressed bullish sentiment towards the stock.9. Adobe Inc (NASDAQ:ADBE)Number of Hedge Fund Investors: 105AQR Capital Management's Stake: $448.26 millionHeadquartered in California, Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) stands as a versatile software company, offering an extensive range of products and solutions tailored to empower individuals, teams, and enterprises in content creation, publishing, and promotion. Renowned across various sectors, including content creators, students, and professionals, Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) also operates a Digital Experience segment, catering to brands and businesses in managing, implementing, and monetizing customer experiences. Securities filings indicate that AQR Capital Management held over 751,372 shares of Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) as of the end of December 2023, valued at $448.26 million, accounting for 0.84% of its portfolio.On December 13, Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) reported a Q4 non-GAAP EPS of $4.27 and revenue of $5.05 billion, surpassing Wall Street estimates by $0.13 and $30 million, respectively. Notably, the company repurchased approximately 1.8 million shares during the fourth quarter of 2023.After digging through 933 hedge fund portfolios for 2023’s December quarter, Insider Monkey found that 105 had held a stake in Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE). Ken Fisher’s Fisher Asset Management was the biggest investor, owning 4.5 million shares that are worth $2.7 billion.8. Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 60AQR Capital Management's Stake: $614.9 millionCisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) is a global corporation that specializes in designing, manufacturing, and selling networking and communication products worldwide. Its product portfolio includes switches, routers, wireless products, and computing solutions. At the end of the third quarter of 2023, Cliff Asness held over 12.17 million shares of Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO), valued at $614.9 million, representing 1.15% of the portfolio.On November 15, Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) released its financial results for the first fiscal quarter of 2024. The company reported a non-GAAP EPS of $1.11 and revenue of $14.67 billion, surpassing Wall Street estimates by $0.08 and $40 million, respectively.At the end of the fourth quarter of 2023, 60 hedge funds in the database of Insider Monkey held stakes worth $2.71 billion in Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO), compared to 64 in the previous quarter worth $1.64 billion.Here is what Oakmark Funds has to say about Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) in its Q3 2023 investor letter:“Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO) is the leading networking solutions company. Networking equipment becomes more important as businesses modernize their IT infrastructure, and Cisco is well positioned to capture this demand given its broad portfolio and highly effective go-to-market strategy. Cisco is transitioning away from selling mainly transactional hardware and toward selling more software and subscriptions. This shift is expected to accelerate revenue growth, improve operating margins and build recurring revenue. Despite these notable business improvements, Cisco still trades near a trough valuation relative to the S&P 500 Index. More recently, Cisco announced its intention to acquire Splunk, a leader in security and observability, adding to its already strong position in the increasingly important security market. At a low-teens multiple of our estimate of normalized earnings, Cisco is trading comfortably below our estimate of intrinsic value.”7. Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:META)Number of Hedge Fund Investors: 242AQR Capital Management's Stake: $636.6 millionMeta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) is an American multinational technology company that provides social networking services, advertising solutions, and more through various platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp. AQR Capital Management owned 1.79 million shares of Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) at the end of December 2023, valued at $636.6 million, representing 1.19% of the portfolio of the fund.On February 1, Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) declared its first-ever quarterly dividend of $0.50, payable by March 26 to the shareholders of record on February 22. As of February 11, the stock’s dividend yield was 0.43%.A total of 242 hedge funds in Insider Monkey’s database had stakes in Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:META). The biggest stakeholder in Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:META) was Rajiv Jain’s GQG Partners which owns a $3.95 billion stake in Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:META).Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) was mentioned in First Pacific Advisors’ fourth quarter 2023 investor letter. Here is what it said:“Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) saw a welcome recovery in engagement and revenue year-to-date following a tough 2022. The company has continued to offer new solutions that allow advertisers to target customers effectively and efficiently via one of the world’s leading digital platforms. Moreover, operating profits are rising due to an organization-wide focus on improving productivity and accelerating the time to market for new products. However, overall profitability continues to be weighed down by losses in the Reality Labs segment. But, there is positive optionality that Meta will emerge from the AI arms race as one of the leading players in the industry.”Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META), Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), and Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) are some of the best stocks to buy according to Cliff Asness.6. Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 166AQR Capital Management's Stake: $685.03 millionAlphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG), a major player in the technology sector, is renowned for its flagship product, Google, which handles billions of daily queries as a leading search engine. The company's portfolio includes various platforms for video streaming and productivity, with YouTube being a standout asset. Additionally, Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) is involved in the retail of electronic devices, offering a range of products such as smartphones, ultra-thin notebooks, and speakers. Regulatory filings reveal that AQR Capital Management owned over 4.9 million shares of Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) at the end of the fourth quarter of 2023, valued at $685.03 million, representing 1.28% of the portfolio.As of the close of the fourth quarter of 2023, 166 hedge funds held stakes in Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG). The most significant stakeholder during this period was Ken Fisher’s Fisher Asset Management, which owned a $6.3 billion stake in Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG). Click to continue reading and see the 5 Best Stocks To Buy Now According To Billionaire Cliff Asness. Suggested articles:12 Highest-Paid Women CEOs12 Best Communication Stocks To Buy According To Hedge Funds10 Best Augmented Reality Stocks Under $5Disclosure. None. 13 Best Stocks To Buy Now According To Billionaire Cliff Asness is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

13 Best Stocks To Buy Now According To Billionaire Cliff Asness

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/13-best-stocks-buy-now-063449519.html

6ef19a23-21a2-3135-a371-4a923939be26

HUM

Enhancements will help seniors get real-time access to local in-network providersLOUISVILLE, Ky. & MADISON, Wis., February 26, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Leading health and well-being company Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) today announced a strategic partnership with Veda, a health technology company specializing in helping healthcare companies solve complex provider data challenges. Humana will partner with Veda to improve the accuracy of its provider information and ensure that seniors have real-time details about in-network providers, making it easier for them to access high-quality healthcare.Ensuring the accuracy of provider directories has been the source of ongoing challenges for seniors, health plans, providers and policymakers. Maintaining up-to-date provider directories, including accurate phone numbers, addresses and panel status of in-network practitioners, is critical to helping seniors make informed choices about their healthcare. While Humana historically was making millions of calls annually to confirm provider data, ongoing inconsistencies and inaccuracies in these directories can make it harder to find a provider and lead to administrative burden for seniors, providers, and health plans.Veda will use its patented automation technology to analyze, verify, and standardize Humana’s data to ensure it is accurate and comprehensive, along with real-time scoring of data quality. Veda’s platform achieves high data accuracy, ensuring quality across networks as measured by the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Veda’s automation will allow Humana to devote more time and resources to enhance the patient experience."We want to be a partner with CMS and policymakers in improving the accuracy of provider directories. This collaboration with Veda will enhance not only the experience for our members, but also our provider community," said Robbie Tindall, Vice President, Provider Process Network Operations at Humana. "We’re committed to delivering an exceptional experience for both, ultimately improving health outcomes and enhancing the overall well-being of our members."Story continues"Accurate provider data is a key component of efficient health plan operations, care delivery, interoperability, and ultimately patient satisfaction," said Veda co-founder and CEO Meghan Gaffney. "By addressing the challenges that members may face with finding in-network care providers, Humana is ensuring their members have access to the timely, high-quality care they deserve."In addition to working with Veda, Humana will continue to apply best practices in ensuring that provider directories are accurate and up-to-date. Humana has also long supported efforts to create a National Directory of Healthcare Providers and Services, and has provided feedback to CMS about how such a national effort can increase patient satisfaction.About HumanaHumana Inc. is committed to putting health first – for our teammates, our customers, and our company. Through our Humana insurance services, and our CenterWell health care services, we make it easier for the millions of people we serve to achieve their best health – delivering the care and service they need, when they need it. These efforts are leading to a better quality of life for people with Medicare, Medicaid, families, individuals, military service personnel, and communities at large. Learn more about what we offer at Humana.com and at CenterWell.com.About VedaVeda blends science and imagination to solve healthcare’s most complex data issues. Through human-in-the-loop Smart Automation, our solutions dramatically increase productivity, enable compliance, and empower healthcare businesses to focus on delivering care. Veda’s platforms are simple to use and require no technical skills or drastic system changes because we envision a future for healthcare where data isn’t a barrier—it’s an opportunity. To learn more about Veda, visit vedadata.com and follow us on LinkedIn.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240226547501/en/ContactsInvestors: Lisa Stoner - Humana Investor Relations; (502) 580-2652;[email protected]: Mark Taylor - Humana Corporate Communications; (317) 753-0345;[email protected] Stephanie Fraser – Envision Health (for Veda)[email protected]

Business Wire

Humana Announces Strategic Partnership with Veda to Improve Accuracy of Provider Directories

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/humana-announces-strategic-partnership-veda-130000397.html

d60eadf4-eeda-3149-af01-02f359d69cc2

HUM

In this article, we will take a look at the 15 worst performing stocks in S&P 500. To skip our analysis of the recent trends and market activity, you can go directly to see the 5 Worst Performing Stocks in S&P 500.The S&P 500 Index was up nearly 6.9% year-to-date, as of February 26, and continues its rally that started in late October. The rally was supported by investor optimism about potential interest rate cuts in 2024 as the Federal Reserve’s battle to control inflation seems to be bearing fruit. Recently, Goldman Sachs lifted its S&P 500 index year-end target to 5200 which represents further 4% growth for the Index based on current levels. Goldman Sachs has raised its forecast from 4700 which was announced in its 2024 Outlook report in December.Goldman Sachs is forecasting an 8% profit increase for the companies in the S&P 500 index, led by strong mega-cap profit margins and improved macroeconomic outlook in the country. David Kostin, lead strategist at Goldman Sachs, expects the earnings strength of mega-cap stocks, especially those in the Magnificent 7, boosting aggregate S&P 500 profits in 2024. Kostin believes that strong global GDP and a “slightly weaker” dollar will lead to positive EPS.Wall Street added several consecutive weeks of market recovery since the last few days of October. The “Magnificent Seven”, which includes Apple, Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia and Tesla, have played a significant role in this bull run. These stocks benefitted heavily from the significant breakthroughs in generative artificial intelligence. For instance, GPU-maker NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) is up more than 430% since the beginning of 2023 and nearly 63% year-to-date, fueled by exponential growth in its revenue.Our list of 15 worst performing stocks in S&P 500 includes companies from sectors that have been severely impacted by the recent adversity in the stock markets. The list includes companies from nine different sectors with a notable absence – the technology sector. In addition to suffering from macroeconomic and industry-wide market adversity, the stocks on our list of 15 worst performing stocks in S&P 500 have suffered from individual negative catalysts as well. For instance, Archer Daniels Midland Company (NYSE:ADM), the second worst performing stock in S&P 500 year-to-date, is reeling from an accounting scandal as it put its CFO on an administrative leave in late January which saw its stock plummet 24% in a single day.Story continuesTo recap, the Federal Reserve rapidly increased the interest rates beginning from near zero before March 2022 to the current 5.25%-5.50% range, the highest benchmark rate in the country in 22 years. This led to the failure of several banks in the United States, including the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank with $209 billion assets, and Signature Bank with $110 billion assets, in March, and First Republic Bank with $229 billion assets in May 2023.https://www.insidermonkey.com/blog/5-best-performing-stocks-in-the-last-12-months-1184205/Image by Gerd Altmann from PixabayMethodologyTo create our list of 15 worst performing stocks in S&P 500, we first ranked the S&P 500 stocks based on their year-to-date performance. The stocks in this article have been ranked based on their year-to-date performance, with the worst performing stock ranked the highest. We have also provided hedge fund sentiment data for these stocks for reference.Data from around 900 elite hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey in the third quarter of 2023 was used to identify the number of hedge funds that hold stakes in each firm. Hedge funds’ top 10 consensus stock picks outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). That’s why we pay very close attention to this often-ignored indicator.15. Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:WBA)YTD Performance as of February 23: -16.78%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 31Deerfield, Illinois-based Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:WBA) is an integrated healthcare, pharmacy, and retail leader with more than 12,500 locations across the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. Its portfolio of consumer brands includes Walgreens, Boots, Duane Reade, the No7 Beauty Company, and Benavides in Mexico.On February 7, Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:WBA) announced that it has sold shares of Cencora, Inc. (NYSE:COR) for proceeds of $942 million. The transaction reduces the company’s ownership of Cencora, Inc. (NYSE:COR) common stock from 15% to nearly 13%. The company intends to use the proceeds for debt paydown and general corporate purposes.Earlier on January 4, Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ:WBA) announced a 48% reduction in its quarterly dividend payment to $0.25 per share. The company, and its predecessor company, Walgreen Co., have paid a dividend in 365 straight quarters (91 years).14. The AES Corporation (NYSE:AES)YTD Performance as of February 23: -16.88%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 35Arlington, Virginia-based The AES Corporation (NYSE:AES) is a leading global energy company providing green and smart energy solutions. It owned and/or operated a generation portfolio of nearly 33.2 GW as of November 2023.On January 18, The AES Corporation (NYSE:AES) announced the completion of 3.5 GW of renewables projects in 2023, nearly doubling the capacity constructed compared to 2022. The projects completed in 2023 included 1.6 GW solar, 1.3 GW wind and 0.6 GW energy storage projects.On February 26, the Board of Directors of The AES Corporation (NYSE:AES) declared a quarterly common stock dividend of $0.1725 per share which translates to an annualized dividend yield of 4.31%, based on the latest share price.13. FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC)YTD Performance as of February 23: -16.92%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 31Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC) is a global agricultural sciences company providing products and solutions across biologicals, crop nutrition, digital and precision agriculture. It employs nearly 6,600 personnel at more than 100 sites worldwide.On February 5, FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC) released its financial results for Q4 2023. It generated a revenue of $1.15 billion and a net income of $1.1 billion which translates to a normalized EPS of $1.07.FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC) currently pays a regular quarterly dividend of $0.58 per share which represents a dividend yield of 4.50% based on the latest share price, the third highest on our list of 15 worst performing stocks in S&P 500.12. First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR)YTD Performance as of February 23: -17.06%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 47Tempe, Arizona-based First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) is a leading American solar technology company and global provider of eco-efficient solar modules. Its thin film photovoltaic (PV) modules provide a competitive, high-performance, lower-carbon alternative to conventional crystalline silicon PV panels.On January 11, First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) inaugurated its new facility in Tamil Nadu, India, the country’s first fully vertically integrated solar manufacturing plant. The facility has an annual nameplate capacity of 3.3 GW and marks the company’s sixth operational factory.On February 14, RBC Capital analyst Chris Dendrinos initiated coverage of First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) shares with a price target of $195 and an ‘Outperform’ rating for its shares.11. Carnival Corporation (NYSE:CCL)YTD Performance as of February 23: -17.85%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 41Miami, Florida-based Carnival Corporation (NYSE:CCL) is a global cruise company and one of the largest vacation companies in the world. Its portfolio comprises of nine leading cruise brands including Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard, AIDA Cruises, and Costa Cruises, among others.On December 21, Carnival Corporation (NYSE:CCL) released the financial results for the quarter ended November 30, 2023. Its revenues increased by 41% y-o-y to $5.4 billion, while it generated a net loss of $48 million compared to a net loss of $1.6 billion. The normalized EPS for the quarter was recorded at -$0.07, beating the consensus by $0.06.As of Q4 2023, Carnival Corporation (NYSE:CCL) shares were held by 41 of the 933 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey, with the total hedge fund holdings valued at $1.5 billion. Two Sigma Advisors was the largest hedge fund shareholder with ownership of 16.1 million shares valued at $299 million.Carnival Corporation (NYSE:CCL) and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NASDAQ:NCLH) are the only two travel services stocks on our list of 15 worst performing stocks in the S&P 500.10. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NASDAQ:NCLH)YTD Performance as of February 23: -19.31%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 31Miami, Florida-based Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NASDAQ:NCLH) is a leading global cruise company that operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. Its fleet comprises of 32 ships with more than 65,500 berths providing access to nearly 700 destinations globally.On January 31, Susquehanna analyst Christopher Stathoulopoulos raised the price target for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NASDAQ:NCLH) shares from $14 to $20 and maintained a ‘Neutral’ rating for the shares. The target price represents a potential upside of 23.69% based on the latest share price.As of Q4 2023, 31 of the 933 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey were long Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NASDAQ:NCLH), holding shares worth $397 million. Its largest hedge fund shareholder was John W. Rogers’ Ariel Investments with ownership of 6.3 million shares valued at $126 million.9. Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM)YTD Performance as of February 23: -20.73%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 86Based in Louisville, Kentucky, Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM) is a leading U.S. health insurer and healthcare services company. Operating through two segments, Insurance and CenterWell, the company had nearly 17 million members in its medical benefit plans, as well as nearly 5 million members in its specialty products.On January 25, Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM) released its financial results for Q4 2023. Its revenue went up by 32% y-o-y to $336 million while it posted a net loss of $540 million. Its normalized EPS of -$0.11 missed consensus estimates by $1.03.As of Q4 2023, 86 hedge funds held Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM) shares, the highest on our list of 15 worst performing stocks in S&P 500. Ken Griffin’s Citadel Investment Group was the lead hedge fund shareholder with ownership of 1.5 million shares valued at $688 million.8. Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA)YTD Performance as of February 23: -22.74%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 82Based in Austin, Texas, Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA), designs, develops, manufactures, sell and leases fully electric vehicles and energy generation and storage solutions. Its current portfolio of products includes Model 3 and Model S sedans, Model Y, Model X SUVs, and Cybertruck, while upcoming products include Tesla Roadster and Tesla Semi – a light commercial vehicle.On January 24, Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) released its financial results for Q4 2023. Its revenue increased by 3% y-o-y to $24.3 billion, while net income surged by 115% y-o-y to $3.7 billion. Its normalized EPS of $0.71 missed consensus estimates by $0.03.Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) ranks highest on our list of 15 worst performing stocks in S&P 500 based on the value of shares held by hedge funds. As of Q4 2023, 82 hedge funds owned its shares worth $6.3 billion. In its Q4 2023 investor letter, Tsai Capital Corporation, an investment management firm, made the following comments about Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA):“Tesla has significant and underappreciated competitive advantages across multiple verticals including electric vehicles, software and energy storage. Misunderstood by much of Wall Street – and consequently a favorite of short sellers – Tesla continues to grow rapidly and increase its lead over the competition while delighting consumers in the process. [. . .] While we expect competition for EVs to intensify and for Tesla to lose market share over time, we also believe the company will increase production and deliveries from approximately 1.8 million vehicles today to approximately 15 million vehicles in 2030 and further its lead in autonomous driving capability. In fact, we expect Tesla will eventually license its autonomous driving software, creating high-margin (70-80%), recurring licensing revenue. Tesla is also one of only two companies that dominate the energy storage market, which has the potential to grow to several hundred billion in revenue as power plants around the world increase their focus on renewable energy.”7. The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA)YTD Performance as of February 23: -22.95%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 69Founded in 1916, The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) is one of the world's largest aerospace companies and a leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services.On January 31, The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) released its financial results for Q4 2023. Its revenue increased by 10% y-o-y to $22 billion while net loss shrunk by 95% y-o-y to $30 million. Its normalized EPS of -$0.47 surpassed consensus estimates by $0.32.Following the earnings release, RBC Capital lowered the price target for The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) shares to $260 from $285 and maintained an ‘Outperform’ rating for its shares.6. Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR)YTD Performance as of February 23: -22.96%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 69Stamford, Connecticut-based Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR) is a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states through its Spectrum brand. It offers a full range of residential and business services including Spectrum Internet®, TV, Mobile and Voice.On February 2, Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR) released its financial results for Q4 2023. Its revenue increased by 0.3% y-o-y to $13.7 billion while it generated a net income of $1.1 billion. Its normalized EPS of $7.07 missed consensus estimates by $1.77.As of Q4 2023, Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR) shares were owned by 69 of the 933 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey, for a total value of $5.3 billion. Harris Associates was the largest shareholder with ownership of 5.2 million shares valued at $2.0 billion. Click to continue reading and see 5 Worst Performing Stocks in S&P 500. Suggested Articles:20 Most Influential Email Newsletters in 202414 Best S&P 500 Dividend Stocks To Invest In 202412 $10 Stocks That Will TripleDisclosure: None. 15 Worst Performing Stocks in S&P 500 is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

15 Worst Performing Stocks in S&P 500

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/15-worst-performing-stocks-p-081312824.html

da0dc870-7910-3828-b6a1-3e3f1194622e

HUM

LOUISVILLE, Ky., March 12, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Humana Inc. (the "company") (NYSE: HUM) announced today that it has priced a public offering of $2.25 billion in aggregate principal amount of senior notes. These senior notes are comprised of $1.25 billion of the company’s 5.375 percent senior notes, due 2031, at 99.940 percent of the principal amount and $1.00 billion of the company’s 5.750 percent senior notes, due 2054, at 99.949 percent of the principal amount (collectively, the "Senior Notes Offerings"). The Senior Notes Offerings are expected to close on March 13, 2024, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.The company expects net proceeds from the Senior Notes Offerings will be approximately $2.226 billion after deducting underwriters’ discounts and estimated offering expenses. The company intends to use the net proceeds from the Senior Notes Offerings for general corporate purposes, which may include the repayment of existing indebtedness, including borrowings under its commercial paper program.Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, PNC Capital Markets LLC and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC are acting as active joint book-running managers for the Senior Notes Offerings.The Senior Notes Offerings are being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement (including a base prospectus) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). The Senior Notes Offerings may be made only by means of a prospectus and related prospectus supplement, copies of which may be obtained by calling Citigroup Global Markets Inc. toll-free at (800) 831-9146, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC toll-free at (866) 471-2526, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC toll-free at (866) 718-1649, PNC Capital Markets LLC toll-free at (855) 881-0697 or Wells Fargo Securities, LLC toll-free at (800) 645-3751. An electronic copy of the registration statement and prospectus supplement, together with the base prospectus, is available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.Story continuesThis news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.Cautionary StatementThis news release includes forward-looking statements regarding Humana within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in investor presentations, press releases, SEC filings, and in oral statements made by or with the approval of one of Humana’s executive officers, the words or phrases like "expects," "believes," "anticipates," "intends," "likely will result," "estimates," "projects" or variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, among other things, information set forth in the "Risk Factors" section of the company’s SEC filings, a summary of which includes but is not limited to the following:If Humana does not design and price its products properly and competitively, if the premiums Humana receives are insufficient to cover the cost of healthcare services delivered to its members, if the company is unable to implement clinical initiatives to provide a better healthcare experience for its members, lower costs and appropriately document the risk profile of its members, or if its estimates of benefits expense are inadequate, Humana’s profitability could be materially adversely affected. Humana estimates the costs of its benefit expense payments, and designs and prices its products accordingly, using actuarial methods and assumptions based upon, among other relevant factors, claim payment patterns, medical cost inflation, and historical developments such as claim inventory levels and claim receipt patterns. The company continually reviews estimates of future payments relating to benefit expenses for services incurred in the current and prior periods and makes necessary adjustments to its reserves, including premium deficiency reserves, where appropriate. These estimates involve extensive judgment, and have considerable inherent variability because they are extremely sensitive to changes in claim payment patterns and medical cost trends. Accordingly, Humana’s reserves may be insufficient.If Humana fails to effectively implement its operational and strategic initiatives, including its Medicare initiatives, which are of particular importance given the concentration of the company's revenues in these products, state-based contract strategy, the growth of its CenterWell business, and its integrated care delivery model, the company’s business may be materially adversely affected. In addition, there can be no assurances that the company will be successful in maintaining or improving its Star ratings in future years.If Humana, or the third-party service providers on which it relies, fails to properly maintain the integrity of its data, to strategically maintain existing or implement new information systems, to protect Humana’s proprietary rights to its systems, or to defend against cybersecurity attacks, contain such attacks when they occur, or prevent other privacy or data security incidents that result in security breaches that disrupt the company’s operations or in the unintentional dissemination of sensitive personal information or proprietary or confidential information, the company’s business may be materially adversely affected.Humana is involved in various legal actions, or disputes that could lead to legal actions (such as, among other things, provider contract disputes and qui tam litigation brought by individuals on behalf of the government), governmental and internal investigations, and routine internal review of business processes any of which, if resolved unfavorably to the company, could result in substantial monetary damages or changes in its business practices. Increased litigation and negative publicity could also increase the company’s cost of doing business.As a government contractor, Humana is exposed to risks that may materially adversely affect its business or its willingness or ability to participate in government healthcare programs including, among other things, loss of material government contracts; governmental audits and investigations; potential inadequacy of government determined payment rates; potential restrictions on profitability, including by comparison of profitability of the company’s Medicare Advantage business to non-Medicare Advantage business; or other changes in the governmental programs in which Humana participates. Changes to the risk adjustment model utilized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ("CMS") to adjust premiums paid to Medicare Advantage plans or retrospective recovery by CMS of previously paid premiums as a result of the final rule related to the risk adjustment data validation audit methodology published by CMS on January 30, 2023 (Final RADV Rule), which Humana believes fails to address adequately the statutory requirement of actuarial equivalence and violates the Administrative Procedure Act due to its failure to include a "Fee for Service Adjuster", could have a material adverse effect on the company’s operating results, financial position and cash flows.Humana’s business activities are subject to substantial government regulation. New laws or regulations, or legislative, judicial, or regulatory changes in existing laws or regulations or their manner of application could increase the company's cost of doing business and have a material adverse effect on Humana’s results of operations (including restricting revenue, enrollment and premium growth in certain products and market segments, restricting the company’s ability to expand into new markets, increasing the company’s medical and operating costs by, among other things, requiring a minimum benefit ratio on insured products, lowering the company’s Medicare payment rates and increasing the company’s expenses associated with a non-deductible health insurance industry fee and other assessments); the company’s financial position (including the company’s ability to maintain the value of its goodwill); and the company’s cash flows.Humana’s failure to manage acquisitions, divestitures and other significant transactions successfully may have a material adverse effect on the company’s results of operations, financial position, and cash flows.If Humana fails to develop and maintain satisfactory relationships with the providers of care to its members, the company’s business may be adversely affected.Humana faces significant competition in attracting and retaining talented employees. Further, managing succession for, and retention of, key executives is critical to the company’s success, and its failure to do so could adversely affect the company’s businesses, operating results and/or future performance.Humana’s pharmacy business is highly competitive and subjects it to regulations and supply chain risks in addition to those the company faces with its core health benefits businesses.Changes in the prescription drug industry pricing benchmarks may adversely affect Humana’s financial performance.Humana’s ability to obtain funds from certain of its licensed subsidiaries is restricted by state insurance regulations.Downgrades in Humana’s debt ratings, should they occur, may adversely affect its business, results of operations, and financial condition.Volatility in the securities and credit markets, including changes in interest rates, may significantly and adversely affect the value of Humana’s investment portfolio and the investment income that Humana derives from this portfolio.In making forward-looking statements, Humana is not undertaking to address or update them in future filings or communications regarding its business or results. In light of these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed herein may or may not occur. There also may be other risks that the company is unable to predict at this time. Any of these risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements.Humana advises investors to read the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 as filed by the company with the SEC for further discussion both of the risks it faces and its historical performance.About HumanaHumana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) is committed to putting health first - for our teammates, our customers, and our company. Through our Humana insurance services, and our CenterWell health care services, we make it easier for the millions of people we serve to achieve their best health - delivering the care and service they need, when they need it. These efforts are leading to a better quality of life for people with Medicare, Medicaid, families, individuals, military service personnel, and communities at large.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240311582522/en/ContactsLisa StonerInvestor RelationsHumana Inc.502-580-2652e-mail: [email protected] Mark TaylorCorporate CommunicationsHumana Inc.317-753-0345e-mail: [email protected]

Business Wire

Humana Prices $2.25 Billion Debt Offering

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/humana-prices-2-25-billion-002100218.html

641c23eb-0cc6-30d5-85a6-1a21995f9a1d

HWM

Key InsightsThe projected fair value for Howmet Aerospace is US$131 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to EquityCurrent share price of US$65.87 suggests Howmet Aerospace is potentially 50% undervalued Analyst price target for HWM is US$67.18 which is 49% below our fair value estimateToday we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE:HWM) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex.Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model. View our latest analysis for Howmet Aerospace What's The Estimated Valuation?We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate2024202520262027202820292030203120322033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$782.6mUS$999.1mUS$1.16bUS$1.35bUS$1.76bUS$2.00bUS$2.21bUS$2.39bUS$2.53bUS$2.66bGrowth Rate Estimate SourceAnalyst x11Analyst x12Analyst x8Analyst x3Analyst x1Est @ 13.81%Est @ 10.35%Est @ 7.93%Est @ 6.24%Est @ 5.06% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 6.0% US$739US$890US$976US$1.1kUS$1.3kUS$1.4kUS$1.5kUS$1.5kUS$1.5kUS$1.5k("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$12bStory continuesWe now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.3%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 6.0%.Terminal Value (TV)= FCF2033 × (1 + g) ÷ (r – g) = US$2.7b× (1 + 2.3%) ÷ (6.0%– 2.3%) = US$74bPresent Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$74b÷ ( 1 + 6.0%)10= US$41bThe total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is US$54b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of US$65.9, the company appears quite good value at a 50% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.dcfImportant AssumptionsNow the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Howmet Aerospace as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.0%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.SWOT Analysis for Howmet AerospaceStrengthEarnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows.WeaknessDividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Aerospace & Defense market.OpportunityAnnual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years.Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.ThreatAnnual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the American market.Moving On:Although the valuation of a company is important, it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. What is the reason for the share price sitting below the intrinsic value? For Howmet Aerospace, we've put together three fundamental aspects you should explore:Risks: We feel that you should assess the 1 warning sign for Howmet Aerospace we've flagged before making an investment in the company.Future Earnings: How does HWM's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart.Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the NYSE every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

Howmet Aerospace Inc.'s (NYSE:HWM) Intrinsic Value Is Potentially 99% Above Its Share Price

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/howmet-aerospace-inc-nyse-hwm-141109265.html

844cc8c7-b0a3-37f1-aa4c-54bdfd5f924b

HWM

FEATURE Alcoa offered to buy out an Australian aluminum partner for $2.2 billion, increasing its weight in the global markets for alumina and bauxite—raw materials used for making aluminum. The company will buy Alumina Limited which it works with in Australia and Brazil.Continue reading

Barrons.com

Alcoa Stock Drops on Offer to Buy Australian Partner Alumina for $2.2 Billion

https://finance.yahoo.com/m/ead6a962-3a07-38e1-893f-dcce4a8b92a7/alcoa-stock-drops-on-offer-to.html

ead6a962-3a07-38e1-893f-dcce4a8b92a7

HWM

For new and old investors, taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals.Many investors also have a go-to methodology that helps guide their buy and sell decisions. One way to find winning stocks based on your preferred way of investing is to use the Zacks Style Scores, which are indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing types: value, growth, and momentum.Is This 1 Momentum Stock a Screaming Buy Right Now?For momentum investors, upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook take precedent, so they'll want to zero in on the Momentum Style Score. This Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.Howmet (HWM)Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, Howmet Aerospace Inc. engages in providing engineered solutions for customers in the transportation and aerospace (both defense and commercial) industries. Notably, it offers forged wheels for commercial use in the transportation industry. It also provides aerospace fastening systems, components used in jet engines and structural parts made of titanium used in defense and aerospace applications.HWM is a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock, with a Momentum Style Score of B and VGM Score of B. Shares are up 1.7% over the past one week and up 16.1% over the past four weeks. HWM has gained 53.1% in the last one-year period as well. Looking at trading volume, an average of 3,028,091.50 shares exchanged hands over the last 20 trading days.A company's earnings performance is important for momentum investors as well. For fiscal 2024, four analysts revised their earnings estimate higher in the last 60 days for HWM, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.03 to $2.19 per share. HWM also boasts an average earnings surprise of 8.8%.With strong earnings growth, a good Zacks Rank, and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, investors should think about adding HWM to their portfolios.Story continuesWant the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportHowmet Aerospace Inc. (HWM) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Why This 1 Momentum Stock Could Be a Great Addition to Your Portfolio

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-1-momentum-stock-could-145012700.html

5d0d901c-9c20-3e93-9533-7940570b6439

HWM

PITTSBURGH, March 05, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE:HWM) announced today that John C. Plant, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Ken Giacobbe, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will participate in the Bank of America Global Industrials Conference in London, UK, on March 19, 2024 at 4:00 AM ET.A link to the real-time audio webcast of the event will be available on the "Investors/Events and Presentations" section of www.howmet.com, where a webcast replay will be available for 30 days following the presentation.About Howmet AerospaceHowmet Aerospace Inc., headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company’s primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, and airframe structural components necessary for mission-critical performance and efficiency in aerospace and defense applications, as well as forged aluminum wheels for commercial transportation. With approximately 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company’s differentiated technologies enable lighter, more fuel-efficient aircraft and commercial trucks to operate with a lower carbon footprint. For more information, visit www.howmet.com.Dissemination of Company InformationHowmet Aerospace intends to make future announcements regarding Company developments and financial performance through its website at www.howmet.com.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240305843183/en/ContactsInvestor Contact Paul T. Luther(412) [email protected] Contact Rob Morrison(412) [email protected]

Business Wire

Howmet Aerospace to Participate in the Bank of America Global Industrials Conference

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/howmet-aerospace-participate-bank-america-120000521.html

26df0ccb-e192-3512-98ee-9b66140b8fb1

IBM

(Bloomberg) -- A potential tax benefit is spurring US companies including PepsiCo Inc. and International Business Machines Corp. to sell bonds through their Singapore subsidiaries, fueling a record surge of sales from borrowers in the city state.Most Read from BloombergBYD’s New $233,450 EV Supercar to Rival Ferrari, LamborghiniStock Rally Stalls at Start of Data-Packed Week: Markets WrapA Spike in Heart Disease Deaths Since Covid Is Puzzling ScientistsFreddie Mercury’s London Residence Lists at £30 MillionJacob Rothschild, Financier and Philanthropist, Dies at 87The tactic can allow companies to deduct interest expense from their taxable income in both the US and Singapore. That double deduction means that effective borrowing costs — after taxes — can be materially lower than they would be with a bond issued in the US.The mechanics of qualifying for the benefit are complicated and a rule that emerged from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development in December may wind up stopping firms from using the technique. But companies may be able to take advantage of it for at least the next three years.As companies sell bonds, they are pushing debt sales volume from Singapore ever higher. Last year, corporates sold $51.5 billion of notes from the city state, more than double the previous year and an all-time record. That mainly came from Pfizer Inc.’s sale of $31 billion of bonds, one of the biggest corporate bond offerings on record, in May 2023 through a Singapore unit to help finance an acquisition.The sales have continued this year: PepsiCo Singapore Financing sold $1.75 billion of bonds earlier this month, and IBM International Capital sold $5.5 billion of securities in late January.A spokesperson for IBM declined to comment. PepsiCo and Pfizer did not respond to requests for comment.New global tax rates are taking shape through the OECD to ensure minimum tax corporate rates are levied globally. Singapore domestic tax law allows a company, including a local subsidiary of a foreign corporation, to deduct interest payments on debt from their taxable income in the nation state. At the same time, the US tax code might allow companies to deduct a foreign branch’s interest expense from its US taxable income.Story continues--With assistance from Finbarr Flynn.Most Read from Bloomberg BusinessweekElon Musk’s Vegas Tunnel Project Has Been Racking Up Safety ViolationsThe High Cost of Eating Out in AmericaTranscript: Did Musk Buy Twitter to Keep His Movements Secret?Why Elon Musk Bought Twitter in the First PlaceCan the Masters of Hipster Cringe Conquer Hollywood With Wall Street Cash?©2024 Bloomberg L.P.

Bloomberg

Pepsi, IBM Sell Bonds Through Singapore to Reap Tax Benefit

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/pepsi-ibm-sell-bonds-singapore-003000776.html

4ba34e1a-a7aa-3afc-86c9-5da5aab375cc

IBM

IBM's robust hybrid cloud and AI platforms position it as a leader in technological innovation.Strategic partnerships with industry giants bolster IBM's competitive edge.Global economic conditions and rapid technological changes present significant challenges.IBM's commitment to R&D and a strong brand identity remain key to its market leadership.Warning! GuruFocus has detected 5 Warning Sign with IBM.On February 26, 2024, International Business Machines Corp (NYSE:IBM) filed its annual 10-K report, revealing a company deeply integrated into the global IT infrastructure. With operations in 175 countries and a workforce of approximately 350,000, IBM's influence spans across a multitude of sectors. The company's financial performance is a testament to its strategic positioning, with a market capitalization of $121.9 billion as of the last business day of the second fiscal quarter. IBM's financial tables indicate a company that is not only sustaining its current operations but is also investing in future growth through R&D and strategic partnerships. This SWOT analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as presented in the 10-K filing, providing a comprehensive overview for investors and stakeholders.Decoding International Business Machines Corp (IBM): A Strategic SWOT InsightStrengthsTechnological Leadership and Innovation: IBM's commitment to innovation is evident in its significant investments in R&D, which have cemented its position as a leader in hybrid cloud and AI technologies. The company's ability to leverage these advancements has enabled it to offer differentiated solutions that address complex business challenges. IBM's technological leadership is further reinforced by its extensive patent portfolio, which protects its innovations and provides a competitive advantage in the market.Global Brand and Market Presence: IBM's brand is one of the most recognized in the world, synonymous with reliability and innovation. This strong brand identity, coupled with the company's global presence, allows IBM to maintain and grow its customer base. The company's market leadership is reflected in its ability to service 95% of all Fortune 500 companies, manage a significant portion of the world's credit card transactions, and connect half of all wireless communications.Story continuesStrategic Partnerships: IBM's strategic partnerships with other industry leaders, such as Adobe, Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft, enhance its ability to deliver comprehensive solutions to clients. These alliances not only extend IBM's market reach but also provide avenues for collaborative innovation, keeping the company at the forefront of technological advancements.WeaknessesDependence on Global Economic Conditions: IBM's performance is closely tied to global economic conditions. Downturns in the economy or shifts in client spending can significantly impact the company's revenue and profitability. As such, IBM must continuously adapt to changing market dynamics to sustain its business growth.Challenges in Rapid Technological Evolution: The rapid pace of technological change presents a challenge for IBM to maintain its innovation leadership. The company must constantly evolve its offerings and anticipate market trends to stay ahead of competitors, including new entrants that may disrupt the industry with innovative solutions.Intellectual Property Protection: While IBM has a robust intellectual property portfolio, there is no guarantee that it will prevent competitors from developing similar technologies. Additionally, the company faces the risk of aggressive patent enforcement by third parties, which could impact its ability to protect its technological advancements.OpportunitiesExpansion into Emerging Technologies: IBM is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging technologies such as quantum computing. By continuing to invest in these areas, IBM can open new markets and create additional revenue streams, further solidifying its position as an industry leader.Growth in Cloud Computing and AI: The growing demand for cloud computing and AI solutions presents a significant opportunity for IBM. The company's expertise and established platforms in these domains can drive increased adoption among enterprises seeking to undergo digital transformations.Increasing Demand for Cybersecurity: As cybersecurity becomes a critical concern for businesses worldwide, IBM's capabilities in security software and services position it to meet this rising demand. The company's focus on security as a core component of its offerings could lead to greater market share in this expanding sector.ThreatsIntense Competition: IBM operates in a highly competitive industry, facing challenges from both established players and new entrants. The company must continually innovate and adapt to maintain its market position against competitors that are also investing heavily in technology and seeking to capture market share.Regulatory and Compliance Risks: IBM is subject to a complex web of regulations across the various markets it operates in. Changes in laws, particularly those related to data privacy, intellectual property, and environmental impact, could impose additional compliance costs and affect the company's operations.Global Political and Economic Uncertainty: IBM's global operations expose it to risks associated with political and economic instability in the countries where it operates. Trade disputes, tariffs, and sanctions could disrupt IBM's supply chain and increase operational costs, potentially impacting its financial performance.In conclusion, International Business Machines Corp (NYSE:IBM) stands as a paragon of innovation and technological prowess in the IT industry. Its strengths lie in its robust R&D capabilities, global brand recognition, and strategic partnerships. However, the company must navigate weaknesses such as its sensitivity to global economic conditions and the challenges posed by rapid technological evolution. Opportunities for growth are abundant, particularly in emerging technologies and the expanding demand for cloud computing and AI solutions. Nonetheless, IBM must remain vigilant against threats from intense competition, regulatory changes, and geopolitical uncertainties. The company's forward-looking strategies, including investments in quantum computing and cybersecurity, demonstrate its commitment to maintaining its leadership position and driving future growth.This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

GuruFocus.com

Decoding International Business Machines Corp (IBM): A Strategic SWOT Insight

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/decoding-international-business-machines-corp-050312633.html

45e3c084-0ea9-3dd7-bb04-a17db0daf4e7

IBM

In this article, we discuss the 10 best edge computing stocks to buy. If you want to skip our discussion on the edge computing market, head over to 5 Best Edge Computing Stocks To Buy. What is Edge Computing? Edge computing focuses on bringing computing power closer to where data is generated, rather than relying on a centralized cloud-based system. In simple terms, edge computing involves relocating a part of storage and computing capabilities from the central data center to close proximity of data sources. Rather than sending raw data to a central facility for analysis, computation is performed at the location where the data is generated and only the computed results, like real-time business insights or equipment maintenance predictions, are transmitted back to the central data center. Devices such as smart speakers, watches, and phones, which engage in edge computing by locally collecting and processing data, are already a part of our daily lives.Contrary to what some may think, edge computing doesn't need a separate "edge network." It can work on single devices or routers. If a separate network is used, 5G is important, offering fast wireless connections. This enables cool applications like autonomous drones, remote surgeries, and smart cities. The edge network is useful when on-site computing is too expensive or complex, but fast responses are needed, and the cloud is too distant. Edge networks enable local computation, allowing devices at the edge (like sensors, cameras, or IoT devices) to process data and make decisions without the need to send all information to a centralized cloud for analysis.The Intelligent Edge aims to provide faster, more reliable, and efficient processing for quicker decision-making and reduced dependence on centralized cloud systems, which may face issues like latency and bandwidth. However, deploying and managing edge computing infrastructures pose challenges due to technological complexity, overwhelming data volume, and interoperability issues. Gartner predicts that by 2026, at least 50% of edge computing deployments will involve machine learning. AI algorithms are well-suited for the data-rich environments of edge computing, enabling quick and accurate analysis of vast data sets. Integrating AI allows edge devices to independently process and act on collected data without constant communication with a central server. This integration enhances decision-making speed, crucial for applications like real-time inventory management or industrial equipment calibration. Story continuesEdge Computing Market Size and Key TrendsAccording to Expert Market Research, the global edge computing market is anticipated to grow significantly from $15.54 billion in 2023 to $147.38 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.4% during the forecast period of 2024-2032. This growth is attributed to the rise of autonomous vehicles, connected car networks, and the demand for lightweight frameworks and applications to enhance edge computing efficiency, creating numerous market opportunities. PwC expects the global market for edge data centers to nearly triple, reaching $13.5 billion in 2024 from $4 billion in 2017. This growth is driven by the potential of locally located data centers to reduce latency, address intermittent connections, and enable data storage and computation in close proximity to end-users. Edge data centers are growing in popularity due to several key trends. The introduction of 5G is a big factor, as these smaller decentralized centers support high-density 5G applications with low costs and latency, especially in smart-city scenarios. Similarly, the increasing use of IoT devices requires quick data processing at the edge to handle the growing amount of information from sensors in homes and industries. Moreover, the adoption of software-defined networking and virtualization technologies allows software to replace expensive hardware in data centers. Lastly, the demand for video streaming and AR/VR is met by these cost-effective edge data centers, reducing latency and providing good performance for users.Read also: Top 15 Edge Computing Companies in the WorldWhat’s New in the Edge Computing Market? On January 5, 2024, International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) disclosed that it is partnering with American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT), a global digital infrastructure provider, to accelerate the deployment of a hybrid, multi-cloud computing platform at the edge. This collaboration aims to expand American Tower's Access Edge Data Center ecosystem by integrating IBM Hybrid Cloud capabilities and Red Hat OpenShift. The goal is to help clients address evolving customer requirements and expectations in digital transformation, incorporating technologies like IoT, 5G, AI, and network automation. IBM plans to provide American Tower with a hybrid cloud platform, facilitating the creation of an edge cloud at American Tower's distributed real estate locations. Similarly, on February 5, Ernst & Young announced that it has launched the EY Edge Technologies Lab, aiming to forefront edge ecosystem technologies in digital transformation. This initiative focuses on creating real-time, industry-specific use cases and prototypes for edge-centric solutions, integrating technology seamlessly into business operations. Leveraging EY.ai, a platform combining business experience with AI technology, the Lab demonstrates the advantages of embedding AI at the edge to optimize speed, performance, security, reliability, and resiliency for businesses. The Lab uses Dell NativeEdge and collaborates with Microsoft, PTC, GE Digital, Snowflake, and others to enhance business operations and leverage edge technology efficiently.Some of the best edge computing market leaders to invest in include Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), and NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA). Our Methodology For a list of the best edge computing market leaders, we scanned Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database of 933 hedge funds and picked 10 companies operating in the edge computing software and hardware services industry with the highest number of hedge funds. These are the best edge computing market leaders to invest in according to hedge funds. Hedge funds’ top 10 consensus stock picks outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here).Edge Computing Market Size and Best Stocks To BuyA futuristic datacenter with servers and high-tech equipment, signifying the company's cutting-edge digital technology.Edge Computing Market Size and Best Stocks To Buy10. Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 44Ranking 10th on our list of edge computing market leaders is Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET). It is a global cloud services provider offering cloud-based security solutions for different platforms, web and application security products, and performance optimization solutions such as content delivery and load balancing. The company also provides a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform called Cloudflare One, along with network services for connectivity, security, and performance. In Q4 2023, Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET) reported adjusted earnings per share of 15 cents, surpassing analysts' expectations of 12 cents. The company's revenue for the quarter was $362.5 million, reflecting a 32% year-over-year increase and beating the anticipated $353 million. Cloudflare achieved record operating cash flow at $85.4 million, equivalent to 24% of total revenue, and set a quarterly free cash flow record at $50.7 million, representing 14% of total revenue.According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 44 hedge funds were long Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET), compared to 37 funds in the prior quarter. John Overdeck and David Siegel’s Two Sigma Advisors is the largest stakeholder of the company, with 2 million shares worth $165.4 million. Like Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), and NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA), Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET) is one of the edge computing market leaders to watch. Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund stated the following regarding Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET) in its fourth quarter 2023 investor letter:“Most of our portfolio companies have seen stabilization and modest improvements in short-term business fundamentals as the year progressed. More importantly in our view, many have been able to drive significant improvement in long-term Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as share gains, meaningful expansion of their total addressable market, and improvement in unit economics. These KPIs are significantly more important in driving the intrinsic values of our businesses, which we believe have increased noticeably during 2023. In the meantime, disruptive changes that we expect will benefit many of our businesses have also continued to pick up steam. Some examples include: • Another example is the leading cloud networking and cybersecurity solution provider, Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET), who described market share gains and customers consolidating from multiple point solutions to Cloudflare’s platform: “And so we’re the one vendor that is able to give people that vendor consolidation, that single pane of glass… that comes through in a lot of customer examples…. People want to buy the entire Cloudflare platform. They want to protect their entire business with that, and that’s driving more interest in both our network security, as well as our Zero Trust products.”9. International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 50International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) ranks 9th on our list of edge computing market leaders. It provides integrated solutions and services globally through its Software, Consulting, Infrastructure, and Financing segments. IBM focuses on hybrid cloud and AI platforms, consulting for different industries, and offers on-premises and cloud-based infrastructure solutions. International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) is one of the top edge computing market leaders. On January 30, International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) declared a quarterly dividend of $1.66 per share, in line with previous. The dividend is payable on March 9, to shareholders on record as of February 9. According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 50 hedge funds were bullish on International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM), compared to 53 funds in the earlier quarter. Ken Griffin’s Citadel Investment Group is the leading stakeholder of the company, with 1.45 million shares worth $238.5 million. Diamond Hill Long-Short Fund made the following comment about International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) in its Q4 2022 investor letter:“New positions initiated in Q4 included shorts International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM), Acushnet Holdings (GOLF) and elf Beauty (ELF). Since diversified information technology company IBM’s 2019 acquisition of Red Hat, the company has aggressively pursued a hybrid cloud strategy. Though IBM and its new management team have made solid progress on this pivot, we believe the company still meaningfully lags the cloud hyperscalers and other cloud-native companies. Management has also laid out aggressive long-term targets for revenue growth and free cash flow, both of which we believe the company will struggle to achieve as it faces intense competition in its hybrid cloud business and structural headwinds in the company’s legacy businesses.”8. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 50Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE) provides data solutions globally through Compute, HPC & AI, Storage, Intelligent Edge, Financial Services, and Corporate Investments segments. Their offerings include servers, storage products, edge systems, networking solutions, and related services. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE) ranks 8th on our list of the edge computing market leaders. On February 27, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE) CEO Antonio Neri mentioned that the company is manufacturing some of its servers in the Middle East to enhance supply chain resilience and meet growing demand. The decision is not solely driven by geopolitical factors but also aims to address potential disruptions caused by natural disasters. According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 50 hedge funds were bullish on Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (NYSE:HPE), compared to 47 funds in the prior quarter. Cliff Asness’ AQR Capital Management is the largest stakeholder of the company, with 14.6 million shares worth $248 million. 7. Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 58Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is next on our list of the edge computing market leaders. It is a global professional services company that offers application services, intelligent automation, software engineering, data and analytics, metaverse, sustainability, change management, HR transformation, digital commerce, infrastructure services, technology consulting, engineering and R&D digitization, business process outsourcing, and other technology-related services. Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is one of the top edge computing market leaders. On December 19, Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) reported financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 ending November 30, 2023. The company posted a Non-GAAP EPS of $3.27, beating market estimates by $0.14. The revenue of $16.2 billion was in-line with Street consensus. According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 58 hedge funds were long Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN), compared to 55 funds in the prior quarter. GuardCap Asset Management is the largest stakeholder of the company, with 1.74 million shares worth $610.6 million. ClearBridge International Growth EAFE Strategy stated the following regarding Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) in its fourth quarter 2023 investor letter:“Another welcome change has been the recognition of generative artificial intelligence (AI) opportunities for companies outside the U.S. While our IT holdings trailed their mega cap U.S. counterparts for most of the year, semiconductor equipment makers ASML and Tokyo Electron, which we consider enablers of AI, as well as enterprise software maker SAP and IT consultant Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN), which we see as facilitators of AI adoption in new product lines and/or enhanced business models, rose strongly in the quarter. These companies are rolling out new, AI-enhanced products at higher prices which should positively impact earnings in the near term.”6. Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET)Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 64Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) specializes in developing, marketing, and selling data-driven networking solutions for data center and cloud networking, including AI-driven ethernet switching platforms, campus wired and wireless products, and routing systems. The company serves diverse industries such as internet companies, service providers, financial services, government agencies, media, and telecommunications. Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) ranks 6th on our list of edge computing market leadersOn February 12, Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) reported Q4 non-GAAP earnings per share of $2.08, exceeding Wall Street estimates by $0.37. The revenue increased 20.3% year-over-year to $1.54 billion, in-line with market consensus. According to Insider Monkey’s fourth quarter database, 64 hedge funds were bullish on Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET), compared to 59 funds in the prior quarter. Steve Cohen’s Point72 Asset Management is the biggest stakeholder of the company, with 833,408 shares worth $196.2 million. In addition to Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), and NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA), Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) is one of the notable edge computing market leaders. Giverny Capital Asset Management stated the following regarding Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) in its fourth quarter 2023 investor letter:“We did a bit of portfolio sculpting during the year, with mixed results. We trimmed Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:ANET) several times during the year as it soared. Those trims, a very small one in March at roughly $163 and a larger one in August at $183, don’t look smart with Arista finishing the year at $235 (and up more in January). Arista rose 94% this year. The good news is, Arista finished the year as our second largest holding, at 7.9% of the portfolio.If you are wondering how I could sell some Arista at $163 but then hold most of it at $235, the answer is that Arista’s outstanding competitive position in Artificial Intelligence became clearer to me as the year progressed. I felt in March that Arista would earn $8 per share in a few years. I see today that it might earn $8 in 2025.It’s possible there is AI-related froth in the Arista stock price, but also probable that Arista will continue to grow rapidly as the computing centers that process AI queries require enormous amounts of data bandwidth. I believe Arista’s routers and switches are the best tools for routing so-called hyperscale traffic. Also, its operating software allows computer giants to manage the kudzu-like growth of their data centers, lowering their total cost of operation.The sales of both Arista and Heico reflected my desire to manage PE multiple risk. I keep learning the hard way, however, that trimming your winners generally doesn’t add value. If the valuation is beyond justification, sell the position. If the valuation is high but the business continues to dominate its niche, grow steadily and add value for customers, maybe just take a walk around the block until the urge to sell goes away.”   Click to continue reading and see 5 Best Edge Computing Stocks To Buy.    Suggested articles:16 Best Future Stocks For The Long Term15 Best Stocks to Buy According to Billionaire D.E. Shaw25 Countries with Developing Economies but Slow Growth Rates Disclosure: None. Edge Computing Market Size and Best Stocks To Buy is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

Edge Computing Market Size and Best Stocks To Buy

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/edge-computing-market-size-best-175948424.html

6daa732c-3c4f-3559-8280-730da2e5408a

IBM

Stock Market Today: The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 200 points as bitcoin hit a record high. Nvidia stock reversed higher.Continue reading

Investor's Business Daily

Dow Jones Slides 200 Points As Bitcoin Hits Record High; Nvidia Stock Reverses Higher

https://finance.yahoo.com/m/ef77c8e6-8d6b-3fc8-bea4-e17812ee7583/dow-jones-slides-200-points.html

ef77c8e6-8d6b-3fc8-bea4-e17812ee7583

ICE

Stuart Williams, the Chief Operating Officer of Intercontinental Exchange Inc (NYSE:ICE), has sold 2,927 shares of the company on February 20, 2024, according to a recent SEC filing. The transaction was executed at an average price of $136.57 per share, resulting in a total value of $399,930.39.Intercontinental Exchange Inc is a leading operator of global exchanges, clearing houses, data and listings services. The company provides comprehensive market infrastructure and data services to a variety of financial institutions, including brokers, investment firms, and banks. Its platforms facilitate the trading and clearing of a broad range of asset classes, including securities, derivatives, and commodities.Warning! GuruFocus has detected 7 Warning Signs with ICE.Over the past year, the insider has sold a total of 2,927 shares of Intercontinental Exchange Inc and has not made any purchases of the stock. The insider transaction history for the company shows a pattern of 33 insider sells and no insider buys over the same timeframe.On the date of the insider's recent sell, shares of Intercontinental Exchange Inc were trading at $136.57, giving the company a market capitalization of $79.76 billion. The price-earnings ratio of the stock stands at 33.24, which is above both the industry median of 18.48 and the company's historical median price-earnings ratio.The stock's price-to-GF-Value ratio is 1.17, indicating that Intercontinental Exchange Inc is considered modestly overvalued based on its GF Value of $116.28. The GF Value is a proprietary intrinsic value estimate from GuruFocus, which factors in historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on past returns and growth, and future business performance estimates from Morningstar analysts.Insider Sell: COO Stuart Williams Sells 2,927 Shares of Intercontinental Exchange Inc (ICE)Insider Sell: COO Stuart Williams Sells 2,927 Shares of Intercontinental Exchange Inc (ICE)This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

GuruFocus.com

Insider Sell: COO Stuart Williams Sells 2,927 Shares of Intercontinental Exchange Inc (ICE)

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/insider-sell-coo-stuart-williams-042922712.html

22001e6c-08d0-3103-80bd-0cedab52caae

ICE

Christopher Edmonds, President, Fixed Income & Data at Intercontinental Exchange Inc (NYSE:ICE), executed a sale of 6,269 shares in the company on February 21, 2024, according to a recent SEC Filing.Warning! GuruFocus has detected 8 Warning Signs with ICE.Intercontinental Exchange Inc is a leading operator of global exchanges, clearing houses, data and listings services. The company provides financial markets with data services across various asset classes and operates exchanges, including the New York Stock Exchange, for the trading of a wide range of derivatives and securities.Over the past year, the insider has sold a total of 16,259 shares and has not made any purchases. The recent transaction is part of a trend observed over the last year, where there have been no insider buys and 34 insider sells for Intercontinental Exchange Inc.On the date of the insider's recent transaction, shares of Intercontinental Exchange Inc were trading at $136.26, resulting in a market capitalization of $79.238 billion.The stock's price-earnings ratio stands at 33.03, surpassing both the industry median of 18.71 and the company's historical median price-earnings ratio. This indicates a higher valuation compared to its peers and its own historical standards.With the current share price and a GuruFocus Value of $116.25, the price-to-GF-Value ratio is 1.17, suggesting that Intercontinental Exchange Inc is modestly overvalued according to the GF Value metric.The GF Value is calculated considering historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on past returns and growth, and future business performance estimates provided by Morningstar analysts.Intercontinental Exchange Inc Insider Sells SharesIntercontinental Exchange Inc Insider Sells SharesThis article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

GuruFocus.com

Intercontinental Exchange Inc Insider Sells Shares

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/intercontinental-exchange-inc-insider-sells-081118758.html

9017088e-5d42-36c4-9982-bcea98d0f684

ICE

Many Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE:ICE) insiders ditched their stock over the past year, which may be of interest to the company's shareholders. When analyzing insider transactions, it is usually more valuable to know whether insiders are buying versus knowing if they are selling, as the latter sends an ambiguous message. However, if numerous insiders are selling, shareholders should investigate more.While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether. View our latest analysis for Intercontinental Exchange Intercontinental Exchange Insider Transactions Over The Last YearThe Founder, Jeffrey Sprecher, made the biggest insider sale in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for US$1.6m worth of shares at a price of US$108 each. That means that an insider was selling shares at slightly below the current price (US$139). We generally consider it a negative if insiders have been selling, especially if they did so below the current price, because it implies that they considered a lower price to be reasonable. While insider selling is not a positive sign, we can't be sure if it does mean insiders think the shares are fully valued, so it's only a weak sign. We note that the biggest single sale was only 1.2% of Jeffrey Sprecher's holding.Insiders in Intercontinental Exchange didn't buy any shares in the last year. You can see the insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction!insider-trading-volumeIf you like to buy stocks that insiders are buying, rather than selling, then you might just love this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them).Intercontinental Exchange Insiders Are Selling The StockThe last three months saw significant insider selling at Intercontinental Exchange. Specifically, Chief Financial Officer A. Gardiner ditched US$296k worth of shares in that time, and we didn't record any purchases whatsoever. Overall this makes us a bit cautious, but it's not the be all and end all.Story continuesDoes Intercontinental Exchange Boast High Insider Ownership?Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. We usually like to see fairly high levels of insider ownership. It's great to see that Intercontinental Exchange insiders own 0.3% of the company, worth about US$229m. I like to see this level of insider ownership, because it increases the chances that management are thinking about the best interests of shareholders.So What Do The Intercontinental Exchange Insider Transactions Indicate?An insider sold Intercontinental Exchange shares recently, but they didn't buy any. And even if we look at the last year, we didn't see any purchases. But it is good to see that Intercontinental Exchange is growing earnings. The company boasts high insider ownership, but we're a little hesitant, given the history of share sales. So these insider transactions can help us build a thesis about the stock, but it's also worthwhile knowing the risks facing this company. When we did our research, we found 2 warning signs for Intercontinental Exchange (1 is a bit unpleasant!) that we believe deserve your full attention.If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt.For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions of direct interests only, but not derivative transactions or indirect interests.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

Intercontinental Exchange Insiders Sell US$2.1m Of Stock, Possibly Signalling Caution

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/intercontinental-exchange-insiders-sell-us-120021917.html

1bcfdbd5-d726-3863-8b95-7ab683e8d6cf

ICE

NEW YORK & LONDON, March 11, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE: ICE), a leading global provider of technology and data, and home to the most liquid markets for trading MSCI® futures, today announced the launch of MSCI® Index Total Return Futures (TRFs).ICE’s MSCI® TRFs offer investors a way to gain exposure to MSCI’s flagship indices: MSCI EAFE Index, MSCI Emerging Markets Index, MSCI USA Index and MSCI World Index. The TRF contracts serve as an exchange listed alternative to over-the-counter total return swaps that seek to replicate the performance of MSCI’s indices in a more capital-efficient and transparent way.The contracts use the underlying U.S. funding rate SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Rate) which measures the cost of overnight cash borrowing. Contracts are available to trade out the curve to 2033, with quarterly and yearly expiries."ICE’s markets account for over 70% of global MSCI futures trading by volume, making ICE the natural home for customers to trade MSCI Total Return Futures alongside our deeply liquid suite of MSCI Futures," said Caterina Caramaschi, Vice President, Financial Derivatives at ICE. "We have worked directly with the market to design the TRF contracts, which allow clients to benefit from trading in a U.S. time zone, against the closing MSCI index level and report the trade on the same day, utilizing the truly global nature of ICE’s equity derivatives offering."ICE offers the most liquid futures on MSCI EAFE, MSCI Emerging Markets, MSCI ESG and MSCI Climate indices, providing participants around the world with a set of tools to manage equity risk. In 2023, the average daily volume for ICE’s MSCI complex was approximately 214,000 contracts, equal to an estimated $14 billion of notional value. ICE MSCI futures traded over 53 million contracts in 2023."Goldman Sachs is excited about the launch of ICE MSCI Index TRFs. We expect it to be an excellent product for clients seeking a cost-effective solution to access a range of flagship MSCI indices," said Daria Sentuc, Managing Director, Emerging Markets Global Synthetics at Goldman Sachs. "As a long-established provider of liquidity across the MSCI complex, we look forward to supporting growth in this new product."Story continues"We’re pleased to license ICE as they expand their TRF segment to include MSCI indices," said George Harrington, Managing Director, Global Head of Fixed Income and Derivatives at MSCI. "This reflects the increasing demand for new products linked to MSCI’s global benchmarks."For more information, please visit: www.ice.com/equity-index/msci.About Intercontinental ExchangeIntercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE: ICE) is a Fortune 500 company that designs, builds and operates digital networks that connect people to opportunity. We provide financial technology and data services across major asset classes helping our customers access mission-critical workflow tools that increase transparency and efficiency. ICE’s futures, equity, and options exchanges – including the New York Stock Exchange – and clearing houses help people invest, raise capital and manage risk. We offer some of the world’s largest markets to trade and clear energy and environmental products. Our fixed income, data services and execution capabilities provide information, analytics and platforms that help our customers streamline processes and capitalize on opportunities. At ICE Mortgage Technology, we are transforming U.S. housing finance, from initial consumer engagement through loan production, closing, registration and the long-term servicing relationship. Together, ICE transforms, streamlines and automates industries to connect our customers to opportunity.Trademarks of ICE and/or its affiliates include Intercontinental Exchange, ICE, ICE block design, NYSE and New York Stock Exchange. Information regarding additional trademarks and intellectual property rights of Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. and/or its affiliates is located here. Key Information Documents for certain products covered by the EU Packaged Retail and Insurance-based Investment Products Regulation can be accessed on the relevant exchange website under the heading "Key Information Documents (KIDS)."Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 – Statements in this press release regarding ICE's business that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of additional risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see ICE's Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, including, but not limited to, the risk factors in ICE's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, as filed with the SEC on February 8, 2024.Category: EXCHANGESICE- CORPSource: Intercontinental ExchangeView source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240311435201/en/ContactsICE Media Contact: Jess [email protected] +44 7377 947136ICE Investor Contact: Katia [email protected] (678) 981-3882

Business Wire

ICE Expands Equity Derivatives Complex With the Launch of MSCI® Index Total Return Futures

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ice-expands-equity-derivatives-complex-120000205.html

aa033560-a54a-31e6-82f8-1034319047e2

IDXX

WESTBROOK, Maine, February 20, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ: IDXX), a global leader in pet healthcare innovation, will participate in two upcoming conferences:Thursday, February 29, 10:50 am – 11:30 am EST – Brian McKeon, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, and Tina Hunt, PhD, Executive Vice President, Strategy, Sector Development and Global Operations, will participate in a fireside chat at the BofA Securities Animal Health Virtual Summit.Monday, March 4, 11:00 am – 11:30 am EST – Jay Mazelsky, President and Chief Executive Officer, will present at the 45th Annual Raymond James Institutional Investors Conference.Individuals can access the live audio webcasts of the presentations through links on the IDEXX website, www.idexx.com/investors. An archived edition of the presentations will be available via the same link.About IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.IDEXX is a global leader in pet healthcare innovation. Our diagnostic and software products and services create clarity in the complex, constantly evolving world of veterinary medicine. We support longer, fuller lives for pets by delivering insights and solutions that help the veterinary community around the world make confident decisions—to advance medical care, improve efficiency, and build thriving practices. Our innovations also help ensure the safety of milk and water across the world and maintain the health and well-being of people and livestock. IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a member of the S&P 500® Index. Headquartered in Maine, IDEXX employs nearly 11,000 people and offers solutions and products to customers in more than 175 countries and territories. For more information about IDEXX, visit www.idexx.com.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240220666980/en/ContactsInvestor Relations:[email protected]

Business Wire

IDEXX Laboratories to Present at Two Upcoming Institutional Investor Conferences

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/idexx-laboratories-present-two-upcoming-190000121.html

e07bfaf0-110f-35f3-ad43-3173e231bd1c

IDXX

Conestoga Capital Advisors, an asset management company, released its “Mid Cap Strategy” fourth-quarter 2023 investor letter. A copy of the same can be downloaded here. The Mid Cap Composite rose 11.00% net of fees in the fourth quarter, compared to a 14.55% return for the Russell Midcap Growth Index. Negative impacts from stock selection were outweighed by positive sector allocation effects. The Mid Cap Composite climbed 22.83% for the year vs. the benchmark’s rise of 25.87%. Four sectors accounted for the majority of the relative performance; the largest laggards were the industrial and technology sectors, while health care and energy were additive to returns. In addition, please check the fund’s top five holdings to know its best picks in 2023.Conestoga Capital Advisors Mid Cap Strategy featured stocks such as IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) in the fourth quarter 2023 investor letter. Headquartered in Westbrook, Maine, IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) engages in the development and manufacturing of products and services for animal veterinary, livestock and poultry, dairy, and water testing. On February 21, 2024, IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) stock closed at $554.77 per share. One-month return of IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) was 6.19%, and its shares gained 15.98% of their value over the last 52 weeks. IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) has a market capitalization of $46.075 billion.Conestoga Capital Advisors Mid Cap Strategy stated the following regarding IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) in its fourth quarter 2023 investor letter:"IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX): IDXX is the industry leader in providing instruments (and consumables) used in diagnostics, detection, and information systems for veterinary, food, and water testing applications. Earnings for the quarter were mixed, as IDXX revenue came in lower than expected on weaker veterinary clinic traffic. However, pricing came in better than expected and shares rebounded after a significant drawdown from July highs."Story continuesA veterinarian in a veterinary clinic examining a companion animal.IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) is not on our list of 30 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. At the end of the fourth quarter, IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) was held by 43 hedge fund portfolios, down from 48 in the previous quarter, according to our database.We discussed IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) in another article and shared the list of most valuable medical device companies in the US. In addition, please check out our hedge fund investor letters Q4 2023 page for more investor letters from hedge funds and other leading investors. Suggested Articles:13 Best Chinese Stocks To Buy Right Now15 Best Android Phones for 202411 Little-Known Penny Stocks With Massive Upside PotentialDisclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

IDEXX Laboratories (IDXX) Rebounded After Significant Drawdown From July Highs

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/idexx-laboratories-idxx-rebounded-significant-084659861.html

1c3e60be-6ada-32cc-bfcb-b8b5d3134007

IDXX

A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Idexx Laboratories (IDXX). Shares have lost about 1.5% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.Will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Idexx due for a breakout? Before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late, let's take a quick look at the most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the important drivers.IDEXX Q4 Earnings Top Estimates, Margins ContractIDEXX Laboratories, Inc. posted fourth-quarter 2023 earnings per share of $2.32, up 13.2% year over year. The figure surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 9.4%.In the fourth quarter of 2023, comparable constant-currency EPS of $2.34 improved 29% year over year.Full-year 2023 earnings of $10.06 rose 25% from the 2022 level. The figure exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.9%.Revenues in DetailFourth-quarter revenues increased 8.8% year over year to $901.6 million. Organically, growth was 8%. The metric surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.5%.The year-over-year upside was primarily driven by 10% reported and 9% organic growth in Companion Animal Group (“CAG”) revenues.CAG Diagnostics’ recurring revenues increased 11% on a reported basis and 10% on an organic basis, supported by the sustained benefits of IDEXX execution drivers, including high-quality placement of CAG Diagnostics capital instruments across regions, high customer retention, new business gains and net price realization.Veterinary software, services and diagnostic imaging systems’ revenues increased 6% on a reported basis as well as organically, reflecting double-digit growth in recurring revenues and a strong interest in its cloud-based veterinary software solution.Full-year total revenues of $3.66 billion improved 9% on a reported basis as well as organically from the 2022 level, driven by 10% reported and 10.5% organic growth in CAG Diagnostics recurring revenues. The figure beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a close margin of 0.3%.Story continuesSegmental AnalysisIDEXX derives revenues from four operating segments — CAG, Water, Livestock, Poultry and Dairy (“LPD”) and Other.In the fourth quarter, CAG revenues rose 10% on a reported basis and 9% on an organic basis year over year to $821.3 million.The Water segment’s revenues increased 6% (up 5% organically) year over year to $41.8 million.For the fourth quarter, LPD revenues decreased 2% on a reported basis (down 4% organically) to $32.8 million.Revenues from the Other segment fell 21.4% on a reported basis to $5.8 million.MarginsGross profit in the fourth quarter rose 8.5% to $526.2 million. However, gross margin contracted 17 basis points (bps) to 58.4% on a 9.3% rise in the cost of revenues to $375.4 million.Sales and marketing expenses rose 7.7% to $142 million, while G&A expenses increased 4.8% to $87 million.  R&D expenses rose 19.3% to $51.8 million.Overall, operating profit in the reported quarter was $245.3 million, up 8.3% year over year. The operating margin in the quarter, however, contracted 13 bps to 27.2%.Financial PositionIDEXX exited 2023 with cash and cash equivalents of $453.9 million compared with $112.5 million at the end of 2022. Total debt (including the current portion) at the end of the fourth quarter of 2023 was $697.9 million compared with $769.4 million at the end of the year-ago period.The cumulative net cash provided by operating activities at the end of 2023 was $906.5 million compared with $542.9 million in the prior-year comparable period.2024 GuidanceIDEXX provided an updated outlook for 2024.The company expects total revenues to be in the range of $3.93 billion-$4.04 billion. This suggests growth of 7.5%-10.5% on a reported basis and 7 on an organic basis. The Zacks Consensus Estimate is currently pegged at $3.94 billion.IDEXX guided full-year EPS in the range of $10.84-$11.33. This updated guidance indicates reported growth of 8. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for full-year EPS is currently pegged at $11.04.How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?In the past month, investors have witnessed a downward trend in estimates revision.VGM ScoresAt this time, Idexx has an average Growth Score of C, however its Momentum Score is doing a bit better with a B. However, the stock was allocated a grade of D on the value side, putting it in the bottom 40% for this investment strategy.Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of C. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions indicates a downward shift. Notably, Idexx has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.Performance of an Industry PlayerIdexx is part of the Zacks Medical - Instruments industry. Over the past month, Thermo Fisher Scientific (TMO), a stock from the same industry, has gained 4.3%. The company reported its results for the quarter ended December 2023 more than a month ago.Thermo Fisher reported revenues of $10.89 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -4.9%. EPS of $5.67 for the same period compares with $5.40 a year ago.Thermo Fisher is expected to post earnings of $4.71 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -6.4%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -0.6%.Thermo Fisher has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) based on the overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions. Additionally, the stock has a VGM Score of C.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportIDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (IDXX) : Free Stock Analysis ReportThermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (TMO) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Idexx (IDXX) Down 1.5% Since Last Earnings Report: Can It Rebound?

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/idexx-idxx-down-1-5-163016878.html

66458b84-3e7d-361a-bc8e-17ee57f3c1ad

IDXX

Executive Vice President James Polewaczyk has sold 8,104 shares of IDEXX Laboratories Inc (NASDAQ:IDXX) on March 6, 2024, according to a recent SEC filing. The transaction was executed at an average price of $558.44 per share, resulting in a total value of $4,524,821.76.IDEXX Laboratories Inc is a global leader in veterinary diagnostics, software, and water microbiology testing. The company provides a range of products and services to enhance the health and well-being of pets, people, and livestock.Warning! GuruFocus has detected 4 Warning Sign with IDXX.Over the past year, the insider has sold a total of 42,649 shares of IDEXX Laboratories Inc and has not made any purchases of the stock. This latest transaction continues a trend observed over the past year, where there have been no insider buys but 15 insider sells.On the date of the insider's recent sale, shares of IDEXX Laboratories Inc were trading at $558.44, giving the company a market capitalization of $46.798 billion. The price-earnings ratio of the company stood at 55.93, which is above the industry median of 28.8 and also higher than the company's historical median price-earnings ratio.The stock's price-to-GF-Value ratio was 1.02, indicating that IDEXX Laboratories Inc was Fairly Valued in relation to its GF Value of $548.60. The GF Value is a proprietary intrinsic value estimate from GuruFocus, which takes into account historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on past returns and growth, and future business performance estimates from Morningstar analysts.Executive Vice President James Polewaczyk Sells Shares of IDEXX Laboratories Inc (IDXX)The insider trend image above reflects the recent selling activity by insiders of IDEXX Laboratories Inc, providing a visual representation of the transactions over the past year.Executive Vice President James Polewaczyk Sells Shares of IDEXX Laboratories Inc (IDXX)The GF Value image above offers a perspective on the stock's valuation, comparing the current share price to the calculated GF Value.Investors often monitor insider selling as it can provide insights into an insider's perspective on the value of the company's stock. However, insider transactions are not always indicative of future stock performance and may be influenced by various factors, including personal financial needs or portfolio diversification strategies.This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

GuruFocus.com

Executive Vice President James Polewaczyk Sells Shares of IDEXX Laboratories Inc (IDXX)

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/executive-vice-president-james-polewaczyk-080116099.html

dd378875-6649-331e-b0ef-103d4630502e

IEX

IDEX Corporation IEX has been benefiting from the Fire & Safety/Diversified Products (FSDP) segment, Fluid & Metering Technologies (FMT) segment and accretive acquisitions despite weakness in the Health & Science Technologies unit, the rising cost of sales and forex woes.Let us discuss the factors why investors should retain the stock for the time being.Growth CatalystsBusiness Strength: IEX’s FSDP segment is being driven by strong momentum in the fire and safety and Band-It businesses. In the fourth quarter of 2023, the segmental adjusted EBITDA margin increased 160 bps due to strong price cost performance, operational productivity and favorable volume leverage. Strength in the industrial businesses and strong price capture on slightly higher volumes have been aiding the FMT segment’s performance.Accretive Acquisition: The company’s expansion initiative is expected to drive growth. In December 2023, the company acquired advanced material science solutions provider STC Material Solutions, which expanded IEX’s growing expertise in material sciences and offered significant opportunities to collaborate with other IDEX critical components businesses on comprehensive solution sets for customers. The acquisition of Iridian Spectral (May 2023) expanded IDEX’s wide array of optical technology offerings. Iridian is part of IDEX Optical Technologies within the Health & Science Technology segment.In November 2022, the company completed the acquisition of Muon Group, expanding its growing platform of precision technology business within the Health & Science Technologies segment. Commercial synergy potential from the combined entities is expected to boost offerings for new and existing customers. Notably, acquired assets boosted the company’s sales by 3% in the fourth quarter of 2023. IDEX anticipates buyout synergies to boost sales by approximately 1% in 2024.Rewards to Shareholders: The company continues to increase shareholders’ value through dividend payments. In 2023, IDEX’s dividend payments totaled $190.7 million (up 7.5% year over year). The current quarterly dividend rate is 64 cents per share (a hike of 7% was announced in May 2023).In light of the above-mentioned positives, we believe, investors should retain IEX stock for now, as suggested by its current Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). In the past year, the stock has increased 0.7%.Story continuesZacks Investment ResearchImage Source: Zacks Investment ResearchStocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked companies from the Industrial Products sector are discussed below:Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. AIT presently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) and a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 10.4%, on average. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.AIT’s earnings estimates have remained steady for fiscal 2024 in the past 60 days. Shares of Applied Industrial have risen 30.8% in the past year.AZZ Inc. AZZ currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2. The company delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of approximately 37.5%, on average.In the past 60 days, estimates for AZZ’s earnings have increased 4.9% for fiscal 2024. The stock has soared 71.9% in the past year.Brady Corporation BRC presently carries a Zacks Rank of 2. BRC’s earnings surprise in the last four quarters was 7%, on average.In the past 60 days, estimates for Brady’s fiscal 2024 earnings have remained steady. The stock has gained 17.5% in the past year.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportApplied Industrial Technologies, Inc. (AIT) : Free Stock Analysis ReportAZZ Inc. (AZZ) : Free Stock Analysis ReportIDEX Corporation (IEX) : Free Stock Analysis ReportBrady Corporation (BRC) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Here's Why Hold Strategy is Apt for IDEX (IEX) Stock Now

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/heres-why-hold-strategy-apt-142900444.html

d3e2b687-0757-3143-a3a4-c73341da5bbb

IEX

Robust financial performance with a 2% increase in Net Income and Adjusted EBITDA in 2023.Global presence with manufacturing operations in over 20 countries and a diverse product portfolio.Strategic acquisitions and operational productivity contributing to the company's competitive edge.Challenges include customer inventory destocking and intense competition in niche markets.Warning! GuruFocus has detected 4 Warning Sign with IEX.On February 22, 2024, IDEX Corp (NYSE:IEX), a leading manufacturer of pumps, flow meters, valves, and fluidic systems, filed its 10-K with the SEC, revealing a year of strategic growth and operational efficiency. Despite facing customer inventory destocking and a volatile global supply chain, IDEX Corp managed to increase its Net Income and Adjusted EBITDA by 2% in 2023, showcasing the company's resilience and adaptability. With a global footprint spanning over 20 countries and a diverse product range catering to various end markets, IDEX Corp is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities. This SWOT analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as disclosed in the recent 10-K filing, providing investors with a comprehensive view of the company's financial health and strategic direction.Decoding IDEX Corp (IEX): A Strategic SWOT InsightStrengthsFinancial Robustness and Diverse Portfolio: IDEX Corp's financial resilience is evident from its 2023 performance, with a 2% increase in both Net Income and Adjusted EBITDA. The company's diverse portfolio, which includes fluid and metering technologies, health and science technologies, and fire and safety products, allows it to mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations. This diversification also enables IDEX to serve a broad customer base, reducing dependency on any single market or sector.Global Manufacturing and Operational Excellence: With manufacturing operations in over 20 countries, IDEX Corp benefits from a global presence that not only provides access to new markets but also ensures stability through geographic diversification. The company's operational excellence is reflected in its ability to maintain strong margins and productivity, even amid supply chain challenges and customer inventory adjustments.Story continuesWeaknessesCustomer Inventory Destocking Impact: The 2023 fiscal year saw IDEX Corp grappling with the impact of customer inventory destocking, which led to lower sales volumes, particularly in the Health & Science Technologies segment. This indicates a potential vulnerability to sudden shifts in customer behavior and market demand, which could affect the company's revenue streams.Intense Competition in Niche Markets: IDEX operates in highly competitive markets where product quality, innovation, and post-sale support are crucial. The company faces stiff competition from other established players like Dover Corporation and Ingersoll Rand, which could pressure IDEX to continuously invest in product development and marketing to maintain its market position.OpportunitiesStrategic Acquisitions and Market Expansion: IDEX's history of successful acquisitions presents an opportunity for growth through the expansion of its product lines and market reach. The company's strategic focus on acquiring businesses that complement its existing portfolio can lead to increased market share and entry into new markets, driving long-term growth.Emerging Market Potential: The company's expansion of facilities in China, India, Singapore, and Dubai positions it well to capitalize on growth opportunities in these emerging markets. With a growing middle class and increased industrialization, these regions offer significant potential for IDEX's diverse product offerings.ThreatsGlobal Supply Chain Volatility: IDEX's global operations expose it to risks associated with supply chain disruptions, which can lead to extended lead times and shifts in customer order patterns. While the company has managed these challenges effectively, ongoing geopolitical tensions and public health threats could continue to pose risks to its supply chain efficiency.Economic and Currency Fluctuations: As a global entity, IDEX is susceptible to economic downturns and currency fluctuations, which can impact its cost competitiveness and pricing strategies. The company must navigate these challenges carefully to maintain its profitability and market position.In conclusion, IDEX Corp (NYSE:IEX) exhibits a strong financial foundation and a strategic global presence, which are key strengths in its competitive arsenal. However, the company must address the vulnerabilities arising from customer inventory destocking and intense competition. Looking ahead, IDEX has significant opportunities for growth through strategic acquisitions and expansion in emerging markets. Nevertheless, it must remain vigilant against threats from global supply chain volatility and economic fluctuations. Overall, IDEX Corp's strategic initiatives and robust operational framework position it well to navigate the complex market landscape and continue its trajectory of growth and innovation.This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

GuruFocus.com

Decoding IDEX Corp (IEX): A Strategic SWOT Insight

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/decoding-idex-corp-iex-strategic-050608890.html

56feb0e5-4339-3c16-873a-7115a78df80a

IEX

IDEX Corporation (NYSE:IEX) saw a significant share price rise of 21% in the past couple of months on the NYSE. The recent jump in the share price has meant that the company is trading at close to its 52-week high. With many analysts covering the large-cap stock, we may expect any price-sensitive announcements have already been factored into the stock’s share price. However, what if the stock is still a bargain? Let’s examine IDEX’s valuation and outlook in more detail to determine if there’s still a bargain opportunity. View our latest analysis for IDEX What Is IDEX Worth?Good news, investors! IDEX is still a bargain right now. Our valuation model shows that the intrinsic value for the stock is $310.92, which is above what the market is valuing the company at the moment. This indicates a potential opportunity to buy low. Another thing to keep in mind is that IDEX’s share price may be quite stable relative to the rest of the market, as indicated by its low beta. This means that if you believe the current share price should move towards its intrinsic value over time, a low beta could suggest it is not likely to reach that level anytime soon, and once it’s there, it may be hard to fall back down into an attractive buying range again.What kind of growth will IDEX generate?earnings-and-revenue-growthInvestors looking for growth in their portfolio may want to consider the prospects of a company before buying its shares. Buying a great company with a robust outlook at a cheap price is always a good investment, so let’s also take a look at the company's future expectations. IDEX's earnings over the next few years are expected to increase by 21%, indicating a highly optimistic future ahead. This should lead to more robust cash flows, feeding into a higher share value.What This Means For YouAre you a shareholder? Since IEX is currently undervalued, it may be a great time to increase your holdings in the stock. With a positive outlook on the horizon, it seems like this growth has not yet been fully factored into the share price. However, there are also other factors such as capital structure to consider, which could explain the current undervaluation.Story continuesAre you a potential investor? If you’ve been keeping an eye on IEX for a while, now might be the time to make a leap. Its buoyant future outlook isn’t fully reflected in the current share price yet, which means it’s not too late to buy IEX. But before you make any investment decisions, consider other factors such as the track record of its management team, in order to make a well-informed buy.Diving deeper into the forecasts for IDEX mentioned earlier will help you understand how analysts view the stock going forward. Luckily, you can check out what analysts are forecasting by clicking here.If you are no longer interested in IDEX, you can use our free platform to see our list of over 50 other stocks with a high growth potential.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

Is There Now An Opportunity In IDEX Corporation (NYSE:IEX)?

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/now-opportunity-idex-corporation-nyse-171709832.html

fb6c852d-9c2b-36fb-ada6-a7eee1557239

IFF

International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) Q4 2023 Earnings Call Transcript February 21, 2024International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. isn’t one of the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds at the end of the third quarter (see the details here).Operator: At this time, I would like to welcome everyone to the IFF Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Earnings Conference Call. [Operator Instructions]. Participants will be announced by their name and company. In order to get all participants an opportunity to ask their questions, we request a limit of one question per person. I would now like to introduce Michael DeVeau, Head of Investor Relations. You may begin.Michael DeVeau: Thank you. Good morning, good afternoon and good evening, everyone. Welcome to IFF's fourth Quarter and full year 2023 Conference Call. Yesterday afternoon, we issued a press release announcing our financial results. A copy of the results can be found on our IR website at ir.iff.com. Please note that this call is being recorded live and will be available for replay. Please take a moment to review our forward-looking statements. During the call, we'll be making forward-looking statements about the company's performance and business outlook. These statements are based on how we see things today and contain elements of uncertainty. For additional information concerning the factors that can cause actual results to differ materially, please refer to our cautionary statement and risk factors contained in our 10-K and press release both of which can be found on our website.Today's presentation will include non-GAAP financial measures, which exclude those items that we believe affect comparability. A reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to their respective GAAP measures is set forth in our press release. With me on the call today is our CEO, Erik Fyrwald; and our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial and Business Transformation Officer, Glenn Richter. We will begin with prepared remarks and then take any questions you may have at the end. With that, I would now like to turn the call over to Erik.Story continuesErik Fyrwald: Thank you, Mike, and hello, everyone. I'm excited to join you all today. I would like to begin by sharing some initial perspectives since joining IFF. I will then turn the call over to Glenn, who will provide a look at the fourth quarter and full year 2023 financial results before providing commentary on our current outlook for the full year 2024. After that, we'll open the call for Q&A. Now I officially joined IFF on February 6th, and I have been impressed by the world-class teams globally and the strong innovation across our company. I spent the last few weeks visiting our operations and teams in some of our U.S. and overseas businesses. I spent that time listening to our teams, meeting many of our customers, and assessing the current status of our businesses.IFF has a proud history as a global leader in high-value ingredients and solutions and a great platform from which-to-build and expand our partnerships with customers across the value chain to help them create leading consumer products. I believe in our purpose to help create a better world through science and creativity applied to sustainably meet customer and consumer needs. The opportunity we have ahead of us is very big, and that is why I joined IFF. We have solid businesses and will take the actions needed to unleash our full potential to start to deliver profitable market share gains by bringing great innovation to win with our customers. A perfect example of this is in our scent business, where we have been outperforming competition, something we must do also across our other businesses.IFF also has other high-quality businesses such as flavors and health and biosciences where we will leverage our innovation to deliver higher growth rates with very attractive profitability. And in some of our challenge businesses, such as functional ingredients, with focus and attention, we can significantly improve performance. In both instances, we will do so by putting the business first, eliminating unnecessary processes and overhead, driving empowerment and strong leadership. And by doing so, IFF will be a more innovative and customer-centric organization that will be effective and efficient. We also must be better executors, focus the IFF team away from distractions to continuously grow market share across all our businesses, put more of our investments into our high-return businesses and transformative R&D initiatives and our IT infrastructure, and achieve our capital structure targets by reducing outstanding debt.And when we do this, over time, I see strong upside and value creation for all IFF's stakeholders. Moving to the next slide, I'll walk through the achievements and factors that marked IFF's progress through the fourth quarter and full year 2023. Now, throughout the past year, IFF FERC [ph] have continued to take important steps to strengthen our financial and operational foundation and position this company to deliver value for the near, mid, and long-term. Our performance in the fourth quarter demonstrates progress. While reported sales were down, comparable currency-neutral sales increased 1% and comparable currency-neutral EBITDA grew 17% with an adjusted margin expansion of 260 basis points. We've also seen notable improvements in volume trends across the majority of our business segments in the second half of the year, enabling us to perform within previously stated guidance ranges for full year 2023 sales and adjusted operating EBITDA.Now, with this progress and the improving performance through the second half of 2023, we exited the year on solid footing, and we are optimistic about our ability to build on this momentum and are targeting getting back to year-on-year growth for the full year 2024 while strengthening for 2025 and beyond. Now, as I said earlier, we are committed to reducing our level of debt. We have therefore announced an update to our dividend policy to reduce the quarterly dividend by approximately 50% to $0.40 per share. This is not a decision the board and management have taken lightly, as we know the dividend is important to shareholders. However, it will enable us to reduce debt faster, strengthening our capital structure, which will create additional long-term value.This will also give the company greater financial flexibility, which will, when required, give us the ability to make more high-return growth investments. I'll now turn it over to Glenn. Glenn?Glenn Richter: Thank you, Erik, and hello, everyone. Moving to slide seven, as Erik mentioned, the board and management have taken this opportunity to accelerate the improvement of our capital structure as we work towards our deleveraging target of three times net debt to credit-adjusted EBITDA. Consequently, we reduced our quarterly dividend to $0.40 per share. We believe this dividend change provides a dividend yield that is consistent with industry peers and is aligned with IFF's long-term cash flow generation and target payouts. The dividend remains an important part of our capital allocation framework, and we expect this new base to grow alongside our profit over time. IFF remains committed to providing competitive returns to our shareholders and firmly believes these actions set us up for more durable value creation in the long-term.Now, on slide eight, as Erik mentioned, our performance for the fourth quarter reflects the operational and strategic initiatives that our team has implemented over the last several months to deliver strong results amid an uncertain operating environment. Despite some continued challenges in the market, volume trends continue to improve sequentially, with increases in nearly all businesses resulting in growth for total IFF. IFF generated $2.7 billion in sales, representing a 1% increase in comparable currency-neutral sales. This improvement reflected strong growth in our scent business with continued volume pressure in Nourish and Pharma, both impacted by de-stocking. Volumes continue to improve sequentially from down mid-single digits in Q3 to down low single digits in Q4, and if excluding the impact of functional ingredients, volumes for the fourth quarter would have increased low single digits.Adjusted operating EBITDA total $461 million in the fourth quarter, a 17% increase on a comparable currency-neutral basis. We also realized a year-over-year increase of approximately 260 basis points to our comparable currency-neutral-adjusted operating EBITDA margin. This growth in EBITDA was supported by both internal steps IFF has taken, including continued gains and efficiencies from our productivity initiatives and favorable net pricing. Before moving on, I wanted to share that we recorded a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $2.6 billion for the fourth quarter related to our nourish business. The primary drivers of the goodwill impairment are related to lower business projections due to volume declines, mainly in functional ingredients, continued cost inflation, and unfavorable foreign exchange rate fluctuations.A lab technician analyzing natural food protection ingredients to ensure quality products.Now moving to slide nine, taking a closer look at our profitability performance for the fourth quarter, we delivered $461 million, which equates to a robust comparable currency-neutral adjusted operating EBITDA growth of 17%. I'm happy to report that in Q4, IFF realized strong productivity gains and in conjunction with favorable net price to inflation, helped us overcome ongoing volume pressures to deliver against our objectives. Importantly, IFF has remained focused on executing upon our productivity program to improve our operational effectiveness and efficiency. In 2023, we continued to launch additional steps as part of these programs while also making strategic investments in key growth areas. Now on slide 10, I'll provide a closer look at our performance by business segment during the quarter.In nourish, sales declined 3% on a comparable currency-neutral basis as strong growth in flavors was offset by continued softness in functional ingredients. While functional ingredients remained the main driver of weakness for nourish in the quarter, it is worth noting that we again saw meaningful sequential improvement. In terms of profitability, the positive impact from our ongoing pricing actions and productivity initiatives drove improvements and led to a 3% increase in comparable currency-neutral adjusted operating EBITDA. Health & Biosciences continues to show robust top and bottom line growth. Price increases, volume growth and productivity gains led to growth across most H&B business segments led by double-digit growth in health. Overall, H&B delivered a comparable currency-neutral sales increase of 5% year-over-year and a 35% year-over-year increase in comparable currency-neutral adjusted operating EBITDA.Our scent segment continued to deliver a very strong performance in Q4, including 11% growth in comparable currency-neutral sales, driven by double-digit growth in consumer fragrance, as well as mid-single-digit growth in Fine fragrance. Like Health & Biosciences, scent also saw significant growth in adjusted operating EBITDA, increasing 34% on a comparable currency-neutral basis, driven by favorable net pricing, volume, and productivity gains. While Pharma Solutions experienced significant pricing and productivity gains, these improvements were offset by lower volume, driven primarily by continued de-stocking trends, as well as strong year-ago comparison. This led to comparable currency-neutral sales declining 10% and comparable currency-neutral adjusted operating EBITDA declining 13% in the quarter.Turning to slide 11, I'll discuss our progress in improving our cash flow and leveraged positions. In the fourth quarter, cash flow from operations totaled $1.44 billion, a significant increase from the previous year, reflecting the strong improvement in inventory levels. CapEx of the year was $503 million, or approximately 4.4% of sales. Our progress on working capital improvement, led by an intense focus on right-sizing our inventories, helped enhance our free cash flow position, which saw a sequential increase of over $500 million, totaling $936 million for the full year and ahead of expectations. Included in our free cash flow is about $430 million of costs, primarily related to integration and transaction-related items. We also delivered $826 million in dividends to our shareholders in 2023.Our cash and cash equivalents totaled $729 million, including $26 million in assets held for sale in Q4. Additionally, we realized a $200 million sequential reduction in gross debt, which totaled approximately $10.1 billion for the quarter, with a net debt to credit-adjusted EBITDA a 4.5 times, our trailing 12-month credit-adjusted EBITDA totaled approximately $2.1 billion. With the announced sale of our Lucas Meyer Cosmetics business, which we still expect to close in the first quarter of 2024, the right-sizing of our quarterly dividend and additional portfolio actions we are planning to make, we are taking decisive action to strengthen our balance sheet and achieve our leveraged targets. On slide 12, I'd like to now turn to our outlook for 2024.Due to a combination of improvements across our business and in the broader market toward the tail end of 2023, we are cautiously optimistic about the year ahead. For the full year 2024, we expect sales in the range of $10.8 billion to $11.1 billion. This reflects our prudent approach to volume expectations and the impact of modest negative pricing in 2024, which is largely isolated to more price-competitive categories such as functional ingredients and fragrance ingredients, given lower input costs and competitive dynamics. We expect overall pricing to decline approximately 2.5% in 2024, following a 10% increase in 2022 and a 6% increase in 2023. Strategically, we believe this will position us to be more cost-competitive in the market and allow us to regain market share in select businesses.In terms of volume, the visibility to the degree and pace of the recovery remains a bit fluid and has been explicitly incorporated in our 0% to 3% range. The most significant variable impacting this range will be the pace of recovery in functional ingredients. However, this is a marked improvement from 2023, where we finished down mid-single digits and '22 we were down low single digits, as we believe our industry will return to more normalized growth rates. On the bottom line, we expect to deliver full year '24 adjusted operating EBITDA between $1.9 billion and $2.1 billion. Our guidance assumes not just improved volumes from 2023, but also solid profitability and a margin expansion across our segments. We are hyper-focused on continuing to execute our productivity initiatives to help mitigate expected inflation, primary labor costs, and incentive compensation reset, while continuing to reinvest in the higher-return businesses.It's also worth noting, we have some benefit of one-time items such as the negative impact in 2023 from the inventory reduction program and the previously announced write-down of inventory related to Locust Bean Kernel or LBK that will not repeat in 2024. In particular, there was an approximately $130 million impact from the negative absorption in 2023 related to our inventory reduction program and some volume declines, which is down from an estimated $165 million we provided in the third quarter. A portion of this will be offset by higher annual incentive compensation expense as we reset our payout to target levels in 2024. While there's still work to do, efforts to bolster our financial profile and portfolio are providing effective, and while its hard to predict the timing and details of the market recovering and its impact on our results, we see opportunity for improvement in 2024 with all divisions targeting better volumes, with improvements in profitability and margin expansion across all four divisions.For the first quarter, we expect sales to be approximately $2.7 billion to $2.8 billion, with an adjusted EBITDA of approximately $475 million to $500 million. Throughout 2024, we will be relentlessly focused on our efforts to optimize our portfolio, improve financial performance, and reach our deleveraging targets. I'm confident that the actions taken in 2023 and our outlook for improving performance in 2024 will position IFF to capture significant value creation. With that, I'll turn the call back over to Erik for closing remarks.Erik Fyrwald: Thank you, Glenn. I'm truly excited to be joining IFF during this transformative time for the company. I have long admired IFF as the category-defining leader in the industry, and it's an honor to be able to work alongside our talented global teams to help us navigate and even thrive at a critical moment for our company and our industry. Through robust efforts from our teams worldwide and shared commitment to putting the customer at the center of all we do, IFF will continue strengthening our commercial execution and become a more nimble and efficient organization. Our global teams made progress towards ensuring we can meet the evolving needs of our customers and deliver industry-competitive returns, and we will accelerate the progress going forward.While 2023 was a challenging year, our financial results in the fourth quarter highlight an improving trend. Based on this performance and some improving market conditions, we are expecting a return to volume growth this year, which should enable EBITDA growth and margin expansion. Our updated dividend policy and the additional divestitures we continue to work on reflects our commitment to improve our capital structure. While the global economic landscape is uncertain, IFF will be focused on strengthening our execution, and as I said, we have work to do to improve our businesses and achieve our vision, but I am confident we are well-positioned to build on our progress and create sustainable value for all stakeholders in 2024 and beyond. I'd like to thank our teams and partners for welcoming me to IFF and look forward to seeing what we'll achieve in 2024.With that, I'd like to now open the call for questions.See also 13 Best Short Squeeze Stocks To Buy Now and 11 Best Small-Cap Growth Stocks to Invest In.To continue reading the Q&A session, please click here.

Insider Monkey

International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) Q4 2023 Earnings Call Transcript

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/international-flavors-fragrances-inc-nyse-150119714.html

4f9d3560-af40-3a01-8700-5c2036def871

IFF

International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) has announced that on 10th of April, it will be paying a dividend of$0.40, which a reduction from last year's comparable dividend. However, the dividend yield of 2.0% still remains in a typical range for the industry. Check out our latest analysis for International Flavors & Fragrances International Flavors & Fragrances' Payment Has Solid Earnings CoverageWe aren't too impressed by dividend yields unless they can be sustained over time. While International Flavors & Fragrances is not profitable, it is paying out less than 75% of its free cash flow, which means that there is plenty left over for reinvestment into the business. In general, cash flows are more important than the more traditional measures of profit so we feel pretty comfortable with the dividend at this level.According to analysts, EPS should be several times higher next year. Assuming the dividend continues along recent trends, we think the payout ratio will be 11%, which makes us pretty comfortable with the sustainability of the dividend.historic-dividendDividend VolatilityAlthough the company has a long dividend history, it has been cut at least once in the last 10 years. The dividend has gone from an annual total of $1.36 in 2014 to the most recent total annual payment of $1.60. This implies that the company grew its distributions at a yearly rate of about 1.6% over that duration. We're glad to see the dividend has risen, but with a limited rate of growth and fluctuations in the payments the total shareholder return may be limited.Dividend Growth Potential Is ShakyGiven that the dividend has been cut in the past, we need to check if earnings are growing and if that might lead to stronger dividends in the future. Earnings per share has been sinking by 63% over the last five years. A sharp decline in earnings per share is not great from from a dividend perspective. Even conservative payout ratios can come under pressure if earnings fall far enough. It's not all bad news though, as the earnings are predicted to rise over the next 12 months - we would just be a bit cautious until this becomes a long term trend.Story continuesInternational Flavors & Fragrances' Dividend Doesn't Look SustainableOverall, the dividend looks like it may have been a bit high, which explains why it has now been cut. In the past, the payments have been unstable, but over the short term the dividend could be reliable, with the company generating enough cash to cover it. We would be a touch cautious of relying on this stock primarily for the dividend income.Companies possessing a stable dividend policy will likely enjoy greater investor interest than those suffering from a more inconsistent approach. However, there are other things to consider for investors when analysing stock performance. Just as an example, we've come across 2 warning signs for International Flavors & Fragrances you should be aware of, and 1 of them is concerning. If you are a dividend investor, you might also want to look at our curated list of high yield dividend stocks.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

International Flavors & Fragrances' (NYSE:IFF) Dividend Is Being Reduced To $0.40

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/international-flavors-fragrances-nyse-iff-142251420.html

633a8e28-3c87-39c5-889c-94b19c12488b

IFF

PARIS , March 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- IFF has launched an advertising campaign featuring staple tools of the art of perfumery. The campaign is appearing today in select publications and online."IFF perfumers are artists of the invisible, who craft olfactive works of art, connecting with consumers around the world through the scents they create for niche to global brands," said Sabrya Meflah, IFF president of fine fragrance. "This campaign celebrates their art, which carries a unique emotional power."The advertising campaign was shot by renowned luxury, perfume and haute-jewelry photographer, Helmut Stelzenberger, who has worked on ad campaigns for Chanel, Van Cleef, Cartier and others.The campaign visuals feature the iconic blue-glass bottle—a staple of the IFF brand—held within hands representing perfumery craftsmanship. Meanwhile, the perfumer's tools—blotters, beakers, pipettes and vials—stand on the scale perfumers use to compound their fragrance formulas. The scale's digital display shows a date of significance in IFF's long history: 1889, the year predecessor company Polak & Schwarz was founded, a testimony of the company's longstanding legacy.Welcome to IFFAt IFF (NYSE: IFF), an industry leader in food, beverage, health, biosciences and scent, science and creativity meet to create essential solutions for a better world – from global icons to unexpected innovations and experiences. With the beauty of art and the precision of science, we are an international collective of thinkers who partners with customers to bring scents, tastes, experiences, ingredients and solutions for products the world craves. Together, we will do more good for people and planet. Learn more at iff.com, Twitter , Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.© 2024 by International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. IFF is a Registered Trademark. All Rights Reserved.Contact:Judith GrossVP Scent Communication and [email protected] continues  (PRNewsfoto/IFF)SOURCE IFF

PR Newswire

IFF Launches Advertising Campaign Celebrating The Art Of Perfumery

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/iff-launches-advertising-campaign-celebrating-080000066.html

f32f0340-53fe-310c-8fe8-24b384651a7e

IFF

Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio), a renowned investment firm, has recently expanded its investment portfolio by adding a significant number of shares in International Flavors & Fragrances Inc (NYSE:IFF). This move underscores the firm's confidence in IFF's future prospects and aligns with its long-term investment strategy. The transaction details reveal a substantial increase in Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio)'s holdings, which is likely to have a notable impact on its portfolio composition.Investment Firm Profile: Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio)Warning! GuruFocus has detected 6 Warning Signs with IFF.Founded in 1930, Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio) stands as a testament to the enduring value of collective investment wisdom. The firm's investment decisions are the product of a collaborative effort by the Investment Policy Committees, ensuring that the firm's philosophy, research, and culture remain consistent over time. Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio)'s investment philosophy is rooted in the pursuit of superior relative value, avoiding overpriced popular choices and focusing on long-term capital appreciation through investments in undervalued companies.Dodge & Cox Bolsters Stake in International Flavors & Fragrances IncTransaction Details: Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio)'s Increased Stake in IFFOn February 29, 2024, Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio) added 11,599,470 shares of International Flavors & Fragrances Inc to its holdings, at a trade price of $75.50 per share. This addition has increased the firm's total share count in IFF to 27,040,195, representing a 1.29% position in its portfolio and a significant 10.60% ownership of IFF's outstanding shares. The trade had a moderate impact of 0.55% on Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio)'s portfolio.Company Overview: International Flavors & Fragrances IncInternational Flavors & Fragrances Inc, established in 1964, is a global leader in the creation of flavors and fragrances used in a wide array of consumer products. The company's expertise spans across various segments including Health & Biosciences, Nourish, Pharma Solutions, and Scent. IFF's commitment to innovation and partnership with its customers allows it to deliver tailored solutions that enhance consumer experiences.Story continuesDodge & Cox Bolsters Stake in International Flavors & Fragrances IncFinancial and Market Analysis of IFFWith a market capitalization of $20.62 billion and a current stock price of $80.77, IFF is positioned as a substantial player in the chemicals industry. Despite being labeled as modestly undervalued with a GF Value of $105.69 and a price to GF Value ratio of 0.76, IFF's financial health presents a mixed picture. The company's financial strength and profitability rank at 4/10 and 6/10, respectively, while its growth rank stands at a lower 3/10. However, IFF's GF Value Rank is at the top with 10/10, indicating potential for future valuation improvements.Performance Metrics and Market InfluenceIFF's stock performance has been noteworthy since its IPO, with a 607.27% increase, although it has experienced a slight year-to-date decline of -0.8%. The GF Score of 74/100 suggests a likelihood of average performance in the future. Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio)'s increased stake in IFF not only solidifies its position as the largest guru shareholder but also potentially influences IFF's stock trajectory, given the firm's reputation and investment acumen.Comparative Guru Holdings in IFFDodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio)'s position in IFF is notable when compared to other esteemed investors such as Carl Icahn (Trades, Portfolio), T Rowe Price Equity Income Fund (Trades, Portfolio), and Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss. The firm's 10.60% share percentage in IFF underscores its significant influence on the stock and reflects its conviction in the company's value proposition.Conclusion: Assessing the Impact of Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio)'s TradeThe recent acquisition of shares in International Flavors & Fragrances by Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio) is a strategic move that aligns with the firm's investment philosophy of seeking undervalued opportunities with long-term growth potential. This transaction not only enhances Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio)'s portfolio but also reaffirms the firm's role as a key stakeholder in IFF's future. As IFF continues to navigate the competitive landscape of the specialty ingredients market, the backing of a prominent investor like Dodge & Cox (Trades, Portfolio) could be a harbinger of positive developments for the company and its shareholders.This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

GuruFocus.com

Dodge & Cox Bolsters Stake in International Flavors & Fragrances Inc

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/dodge-cox-bolsters-stake-international-170140510.html

8d95b1f5-848c-39aa-9cbd-212b5048ffde

ILMN

On February 22, 2024, Jacob Thaysen, CEO of Illumina Inc (NASDAQ:ILMN), made a significant insider purchase, acquiring 7,330 shares of the company's stock, as reported in a recent SEC Filing. This transaction has caught the attention of market observers as insider buying can be an indicator of a corporate executive's confidence in the future prospects of their company.Warning! GuruFocus has detected 3 Warning Signs with ILMN.Illumina Inc is a global leader in genomics an industry at the intersection of biology and technology. The company provides a comprehensive line of products and services that serve the sequencing, genotyping, and gene expression needs of research, clinical, and applied markets. Its products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture, and other emerging segments.Insider buying and selling activities are closely watched by investors as they can provide insights into a company's internal perspective. An insider purchase, such as the one made by the insider, may suggest that the company's executives believe the stock is undervalued or that there are positive developments ahead that could drive the stock's performance.Over the past year, the insider has purchased a total of 7,330 shares and has not sold any shares, indicating a potential belief in the company's value and growth potential. The insider transaction history for Illumina Inc shows a pattern of 1 insider buy and 5 insider sells over the past year.On the day of the insider's recent purchase, shares of Illumina Inc were trading at $135.29, resulting in a market cap of $21,729.576 billion.The stock's price-to-GF-Value ratio stands at 0.64, with a GF Value of $212.59, suggesting that Illumina Inc is significantly undervalued according to GuruFocus's valuation model. The GF Value is a proprietary intrinsic value estimate that takes into account historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on past returns and growth, and future business performance estimates from Morningstar analysts.Story continuesIllumina Inc CEO Jacob Thaysen Acquires 7,330 SharesThe insider's recent acquisition aligns with the current valuation analysis, potentially indicating an opportunity for investors considering the stock's current price relative to its estimated intrinsic value.Illumina Inc CEO Jacob Thaysen Acquires 7,330 SharesInvestors and analysts often look to insider transactions as one piece of a larger puzzle when evaluating a stock's potential. While insider buying can be a positive sign, it is important to consider the full range of financial and market data when making investment decisions.This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

GuruFocus.com

Illumina Inc CEO Jacob Thaysen Acquires 7,330 Shares

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/illumina-inc-ceo-jacob-thaysen-160045778.html

1605e644-bca7-3209-9958-a0465ebc6095

ILMN

Gene-sequencing stock Illumina (NASDAQ: ILMN) was a standout in the biotech sector Monday, with its share-price rise convincingly beating the S&P 500 index. Investors were cheered by a stock buy made by a high-profile insider. As a result, its shares closed the day almost 3% higher, while the bellwether index slid by almost 0.4%.The CEO snapped up some sharesThe insider doing the buying was none other than Illumina's CEO Jacob Thaysen. According to a regulatory document filed on Monday, Thaysen made three stock purchases the previous Thursday. All told, the CEO picked up 7,300 shares of the biotech at prices ranging from $134.91 to $137.18 apiece. That purchase more than doubled his holdings. According to the regulatory document, he now owns 14,861 shares.None of these figures are immense when compared to Illumina's position on the stock market. At the moment, the biotech has nearly 159 million shares outstanding, and its market cap approaches $22 billion.Regardless, investors are usually very encouraged when top management puts their own money into shares of a company. This indicates confidence in its future, as -- theoretically, anyway -- no sensible person would want to spend their cash on a business they know is in decline.Investors, keep your eye on the ballThaysen's purchase might be small, but the fact that he doubled down and then some on his position appears to be telling. An insider making only a token attempt at boosting morale through a stock purchase likely wouldn't increase their holdings so dramatically.That being said, it's the fundamentals that always count for any company, in the biotech sector or elsewhere. This bit of news is surely encouraging, but what's more important for Illumina investors is how the company performs going forward.Should you invest $1,000 in Illumina right now?Before you buy stock in Illumina, consider this:The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Illumina wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.Story continuesStock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*.See the 10 stocks*Stock Advisor returns as of February 26, 2024Eric Volkman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Illumina. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.Why Illumina Stock Mashed the Market on Monday was originally published by The Motley Fool

Motley Fool

Why Illumina Stock Mashed the Market on Monday

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-illumina-stock-mashed-market-232900308.html

01df2c4c-f525-364a-a7e6-0afc55b15000

ILMN

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / March 7, 2024 / IlluminaWorldFish and the Earlham Institute are using genomics to improve tilapia for the sake of global food sustainabilityOriginally published on Illumina News CenterThe United Nations projects that the total human population will exceed 9 billion by 2040. Feeding that many people will demand advances in sustainable farming, especially in aquaculture. John Benzie, PhD, Karim Gharbi, PhD, and Tarang Mehta, PhD, recently spoke with Illumina about how their organizations are improving farmed tilapia through genomics, with the ultimate aim of improving aquaculture in the developing world.WorldFish: Better aquaculture through selective breedingBenzie is principal scientist at WorldFish, based in Penang, Malaysia. His organization works to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. One of their most groundbreaking achievements to date is the genetically improved farmed tilapia, or GIFT, a selectively bred strain of Nile tilapia introduced in 1988 that grows twice as fast as wild varieties and to a larger size.Tilapia is the second-most-farmed fish in the world, after carp. It can be raised on small farms, and it's an important source of protein, iron, potassium, and other nutrients for developing nations in sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. Benzie explained that GIFT's faster growth means a farmer can grow more fish in a shorter season, which could make all the difference in whether they turn a profit on their investment.Keeping small-farm production both economically and environmentally sustainable is one of WorldFish's primary interests. The organization makes GIFT's germplasm available to research organizations or national governments that agree to use it responsibly, and by their estimations, today GIFT is farmed in 14 countries and constitutes fully half of the world's tilapia production.WorldFish continues to improve fish traits through their selective breeding programs, which primarily look for disease resistance and ability to withstand changes in temperature and salinity.Story continuesBenzie described how these programs work, step by step: "Every year we take out old fish from the previous generation. We make calculations based on the pedigree we have-we know how they're all related to each other-and we use the best fish to breed the next generation." They choose promising males and females to pair, incubate their eggs, and raise the newborn fish. "We keep each family separate so we know who is who-who the parents were-and we then take these fish at three months of age, and put in a little microtransponder so we can identify each individual fish." Then the fish are moved to a bigger tank once they reach adulthood, and the process starts over again.Decisions about which pairs to breed can be made significantly faster, and more accurately, if they know their fish's genetic information-and they've found just the right partner to unlock this knowledge.The Earlham Institute: Finding the right genes for the jobThe Earlham Institute is a life science research hub in Norwich, England, that uses genomics to decode the scale and complexity of living systems. Karim Gharbi, its head of Genomics Pipelines, researched genetic markers in fish for his PhD-he credits his career to a lifelong fascination with the documentaries of Jacques Cousteau.His colleague Tarang Mehta is a postdoctoral researcher seeking to understand the basis of gene regulation in fish, specifically how some genes are linked to better salinity adaptation in certain tilapia species but not others. He hopes that, with sufficient genomic information, WorldFish could breed tolerance to fluctuating salinity into species that are farmed in developing countries.The Earlham Institute isolates their DNA samples from tiny pieces of fin collected from live fish across the world and sequences them using the Illumina NovaSeq X Plus System. Then, by analyzing the generated data, they can identify genetic markers that express desirable traits.Among those traits, disease resistance may be the most critical-tilapia lake virus alone is responsible for up to 90% of tilapia mortality worldwide. "Once we have a disease developing in a particular farming industry like aquaculture," Gharbi said, "this can start spreading from farm to farm, and every outbreak event is a loss to the farmer. The faster we can help farmers grow fish less susceptible to disease, the less income they will lose."Having access to an animal's genome is a breakthrough that changes how organizations like WorldFish can operate: Previously, breeders had to directly expose fish to a virus in order to select individuals who showed better resistance to it. Now they can avoid this step, arriving at answers faster and without causing unnecessary harm.The NovaSeq X Series: Fast, accurate, and sustainableThe Earlham Institute serves many users in the UK and beyond who depend on them to generate high-quality data quickly, affordably, and sustainably, and Gharbi and Mehta both attest to the NovaSeq X Series' strengths in that arena.Under optimal conditions, Gharbi said, they can receive samples from WorldFish and return results within five days. And in a recent evaluation of the institute's "green impact," the NovaSeq X Series' sustainable reagents helped them demonstrate their efforts to reduce waste."The Illumina NovaSeq X is a cutting-edge technology," Mehta added, "which allowed us both the speed and scale to sequence some of the things that we require with regards to genome sequencing, transcriptome sequencing, and epigenetic sequencing." Taking multiomic approaches gives them more power to apply their findings to their mission of improving food security.As he spoke about the institute, Mehta reinforced time and again how important it is to him to translate the work they're doing at the genomic level directly into sustaining food biodiversity. "In a rapidly changing world, where disease is not going to wait for us and a changing environment is not going to wait for us," he said, "it's important for us to have not only just the speed, but also the scale of data quickly-for us to translate these findings to then move quickly back into the field to better inform genomic selection breeding programs."Fish can drownIt might sound counterintuitive, but fish can actually suffocate if there isn't enough oxygen in their water. Benzie explained that many farmers in WorldFish's areas of concern lack the means to aerate their ponds at night-when the algae present stop photosynthesizing oxygen, but the fish are still consuming it. Then, oxygen levels can fall so low overnight that the fish can drown. "Farmers, in order to avoid that effect, stock about half the amount that you would stock if you could aerate," he said. This creates an unfortunate cycle: Less stock means lower profits, and even less chance to upgrade farm infrastructure to accommodate more fish. One piece of the solution, then, is fish that are bred to tolerate lower oxygen levels.WorldFish's genetically improved strain of farmed tilapia constitutes half of the world's tilapia production. Video still: IlluminaView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Illumina on 3blmedia.com.Contact Info:Spokesperson: IlluminaWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/illuminaEmail: [email protected]: IlluminaView the original press release on accesswire.com

ACCESSWIRE

Video: Give Someone a Fish, You Feed Them - Unlock the Fish Genome, You Feed the World

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/video-someone-fish-feed-them-144500344.html

02d622cf-07de-38c5-b9eb-ad2d624cf955

ILMN

Illumina scientists tailor-made research solutions for detecting genes in difficult-to-read regions that cause both common and rare diseasesOriginally published on Illumina News CenterNORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / March 8, 2024 / When scientists want to sequence a DNA sample on an Illumina system, they don't try to read all 4 billion base pairs of the genome at once. Instead, they slice the DNA into short fragments of about 500 base pairs that are easier to work with and faster to read.DNA samples, in the form of a small amount of tissue or fluid, usually contain many cells, and thus many copies of the organism's genome-so once the system captures images of the fragments, it reassembles the data for one complete sequence by comparing where the fragments overlap.Think of it like tossing several identical copies of a book into a paper shredder, each one at a random angle. You can't reassemble any individual copy like you would a puzzle, because all the pieces are the same shape. (Especially if you don't have an intact book to reference.) But, since each copy of the book was shredded in different random locations from the others, you can match up fragments from different copies based on where the text overlaps.If the species of interest has never been sequenced before, scientists must rely on these overlaps, known as contiguous regions, or "contigs," to build a reference genome. Fortunately, human reference genomes are available thanks to The Human Genome Project, completed in 2003, and the ongoing work of the Genome Reference Consortium. Every individual human shares 99.99% of the same base pairs, so scientists can identify an individual's genetic variants by comparing them to existing references.Unfortunately, in many regions of the human genome, the sequence of base pairs is highly repetitive. Entire genes-many thousands of base pairs long-may be duplicated multiple times, with only a handful of base pair variations to differentiate the copies. Furthermore, the number of duplications of given genes, and the specific differences between the copies, frequently varies from person to person.Story continuesThese regions of "high homology" are notoriously difficult to analyze, even with a reference genome available. Fragments from them are likely to "fit" in several possible locations, leaving the system with low confidence that it's aligned them correctly.Unfortunately, many genetic diseases result from having an atypical number of copies of specific genes, or a variant in just one gene of a multigene family with many copies-so in order to screen for these diseases, sequencing systems and data analysis pipelines must be sophisticated enough to accurately detect variants even in high-homology regions.One way to tackle this is to perform longer reads. If the fragments are long enough to bridge the homologous region, reads can be mapped unambiguously to different copies of that region in the reference genome. For example, Illumina Complete Long Reads can create reads up to about 10,000 base pairs. But some homologous regions are still longer than that.Luckily, Illumina scientists have developed solutions to this problem even for short reads. Targeted callers are tailor-made to quickly and accurately detect the copy number (and other variants) of genes associated with specific diseases. Read on to learn about three of them-congenital adrenal hyperplasia, alpha thalassemia, and atherosclerosis-and how DRAGEN Secondary Analysis software version 4.2 pierces the fog to locate their genetic origin.CYP21A2 and congenital adrenal hyperplasiaOur adrenal glands, located atop our kidneys, help regulate the levels of sodium and potassium in our blood. They do this by synthesizing the hormones cortisol and aldosterone, with the help of the protein 21-hydroxylase.That protein is coded by the gene CYP21A2, which unfortunately sits in just one of two copies of the highly homologous RCCX region. The other copy of RCCX contains a very similar "pseudogene," CYP21A1P, which has no function. This homology confuses not just gene sequencing, but human reproduction: When parental chromosomes recombine to form their child's DNA, they might mistakenly mix genetic material between the functional CYP21A2 and the nonfunctional CYP21A1P, impairing the resulting gene's ability to code for 21-hydroxylase… or they might delete the gene entirely.As with many inherited diseases, a child usually shows no symptoms as long as they have one functioning copy of CYP21A2-they're only a carrier for the condition. But having two nonfunctional copies leads to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).CAH caused by 21-hydroxylase deficiency occurs about once in 10,000 to 15,000 live births. If a developing fetus's adrenal glands have a decreased level of 21-hydroxylase, they can't synthesize as much cortisol and aldosterone as their body needs. Then, the excess materials they would've used for synthesis accumulate and instead form androgens, or male sex hormones. This is called "simple virilizing CAH." Girls with excessive androgens may develop ambiguous genitalia; boys may not show any external signs and require targeted screening to diagnose.Children born without either functional CYP21A2 gene-and thus a complete lack of 21-hydroxylase-can't synthesize cortisol and aldosterone at all, and their kidneys can't retain salt. This severe "salt-wasting CAH" causes dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, and adrenal crisis within days or weeks of birth, and is often fatal.The CYP21A2 targeted caller in DRAGEN 4.2 is a research-use-only tool specially geared to detect a wide range of variation in the gene: It can discern the number of copies of the RCCX region, gene deletions, gene conversions, and 33 different small variants in the gene or the pseudogene. Illumina scientists tested the caller on a large selection of publicly available data from The 1000 Genomes Project, including healthy individuals, CAH carriers, and 16 CAH cases. The caller successfully detected the RCCX copy number, full gene deletions, and small variants in every case.To learn about how the CYP21A2 caller works and the methods used to test it in greater detail, read this article by Jonathan Belyeu, Fabian Klötzl, Eric Roller, Emma Newman, Vitor Onuchic, and Mitchell Bekritsky on Illumina's Genomics Research Hub.HBA and alpha thalassemiaBy weight, human red blood cells are composed of about 35% hemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen. (Most of the rest is water.) There are a few different combinations of hemoglobin proteins, but an essential ingredient of them all is alpha hemoglobin, encoded by the genes HBA1 and HBA2.People typically have four total copies of these genes, two on each copy of chromosome 16. Children who inherit only three copies will be carriers-they still produce enough alpha hemoglobin and don't generally need treatment. But children who inherit two or fewer copies of HBA1 and HBA2 will have some form of alpha thalassemia, an autosomal recessive blood disorder.Insufficient hemoglobin causes anemia, in which red blood cells are undersized or disintegrate entirely-and the number of missing copies of HBA1 and HBA2 directly affects alpha thalassemia's severity. A person with two missing copies has "alpha thalassemia trait," which causes mild anemia. Three missing copies entails "hemoglobin H disease," or HbH, which requires blood transfusion therapy. A person without any copies has "hemoglobin Bart's hydrops foetalis," which is usually fatal.According to the Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases, alpha thalassemia "is probably the most common monogenic disorder in the world and is especially frequent in Mediterranean countries, South-East Asia, Africa, the Middle East and in the Indian subcontinent." In some regions, more than 30% of the population may be carriers. Some scientists theorize that this prevalence arose because it actually confers an evolutionary advantage in these regions, since carriers are less susceptible to malaria.In all, the CDC estimates that about 5% of the world's population has some variant of alpha thalassemia, and both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American College of Medical Genetics recommend screening for the condition in people who are pregnant or who plan to reproduce.The genomic region containing HBA1 and HBA2 is highly homologous, making copy number detection and accurate read alignment difficult for gene sequencing systems. So Illumina scientists developed the research-use-only HBA targeted caller for DRAGEN 4.2, which estimates HBA copy number genotype based on several nearby regions that are not homologous. They tested the caller on hundreds of samples from The 1000 Genomes Project and found that it accurately detected 14 copy number genotypes-variations based on exactly which region of the HBA genes was deleted.In the article linked below, these scientists report being confident that this research tool will be able to aid large-scale population studies, and in turn "help guide decisions about how to best deploy carrier and newborn screening tests."To learn about how the HBA caller works and the methods used to test it in greater detail, read this article by Shunhua Han, Vitor Onuchic, Massimiliano Rossi, Eric Roller, and Daniel Cameron on Illumina's Genomics Research Hub.KIV-2 and atherosclerosisWe humans require cholesterol as a vital component of our cell membranes, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are the main vehicle our bodies use to transport cholesterol-containing fats. However, elevated LDL levels are a major factor in atherosclerosis-a buildup of fats along arterial walls-and subsequently of cardiovascular disease (CVD). According to the World Health Organization, nearly a third of all deaths are due to CVD, 85% of which involve heart attack and stroke.Lipoprotein a (LPA) is one kind of LDL. The concentration of LPA in a person's blood is highly heritable from parent to child and varies widely from one population to the next-for instance, an article in JAMA Cardiology estimates that 20% of individuals of European ancestry have elevated LPA levels. These elevated levels can be traced to a genetic cause: the number of copies of the kringle-IV 2 domain (KIV-2) in the LPA protein.Named after the twisted Danish pastry, kringle domains are sections of a protein that fold together into loops and help it bind to other proteins. KIV-2 has an astounding range of occurrence: human reference genomes usually record fewer than six copies of it in the LPA gene, but some people have 50 copies or more.Why does this region get copied so much? For now, scientists are unsure. The more copies of KIV-2 a person has, the longer their LPA proteins are… but here's the catch: The longer these proteins are, the longer they take to synthesize, so-counterintuitively-a person with more copies of KIV-2 actually has lower levels of LPA in their blood.Regardless, the extremely variable copy number of this region makes it a huge challenge for a gene sequencer to accurately describe and quantify.Working with colleagues at eight universities and laboratories across the United States, Illumina scientists developed a targeted caller that generates a highly accurate copy number measurement for this difficult region. They tested the research-use-only caller on the genomic data of 120 Mendelian trios (a child and both their parents) recorded in The 1000 Genomes Project, and the results correlated extremely closely with those generated by other methods. In the article linked below, the Illumina team presents these results as evidence that the LPA targeted caller in DRAGEN software "will provide a valuable tool for enhanced LPA and CVD research."To learn about how the KIV-2 caller works and the methods used to test it in greater detail, read this article by Jonathan Belyeu, Vitor Onuchic, and Mitchell Bekritsky on Illumina's Genomics Research Hub.DRAGEN 4.2 software includes several targeted callers for detecting copy number variants in high-homology regions. Photo: IlluminaView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Illumina on 3blmedia.com.Contact Info:Spokesperson: IlluminaWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/illuminaEmail: [email protected]: IlluminaView the original press release on accesswire.com

ACCESSWIRE

Finding the Needle in the Genomic Haystack With DRAGEN

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/finding-needle-genomic-haystack-dragen-144500652.html

359e8da8-5b27-35d3-9fb0-8f62df923334

INCY

As you might know, Incyte Corporation (NASDAQ:INCY) recently reported its yearly numbers. Results were roughly in line with estimates, with revenues of US$3.7b and statutory earnings per share of US$2.65. The analysts typically update their forecasts at each earnings report, and we can judge from their estimates whether their view of the company has changed or if there are any new concerns to be aware of. So we collected the latest post-earnings statutory consensus estimates to see what could be in store for next year. Check out our latest analysis for Incyte earnings-and-revenue-growthTaking into account the latest results, the current consensus from Incyte's 19 analysts is for revenues of US$4.15b in 2024. This would reflect a solid 12% increase on its revenue over the past 12 months. Statutory earnings per share are predicted to leap 34% to US$3.57. Before this earnings report, the analysts had been forecasting revenues of US$4.12b and earnings per share (EPS) of US$3.77 in 2024. So it looks like there's been a small decline in overall sentiment after the recent results - there's been no major change to revenue estimates, but the analysts did make a minor downgrade to their earnings per share forecasts.The consensus price target held steady at US$76.01, with the analysts seemingly voting that their lower forecast earnings are not expected to lead to a lower stock price in the foreseeable future. There's another way to think about price targets though, and that's to look at the range of price targets put forward by analysts, because a wide range of estimates could suggest a diverse view on possible outcomes for the business. There are some variant perceptions on Incyte, with the most bullish analyst valuing it at US$92.00 and the most bearish at US$58.00 per share. This shows there is still a bit of diversity in estimates, but analysts don't appear to be totally split on the stock as though it might be a success or failure situation.Story continuesOf course, another way to look at these forecasts is to place them into context against the industry itself. We can infer from the latest estimates that forecasts expect a continuation of Incyte'shistorical trends, as the 12% annualised revenue growth to the end of 2024 is roughly in line with the 14% annual growth over the past five years. By contrast, our data suggests that other companies (with analyst coverage) in a similar industry are forecast to see their revenues grow 17% per year. So although Incyte is expected to maintain its revenue growth rate, it's forecast to grow slower than the wider industry.The Bottom LineThe biggest concern is that the analysts reduced their earnings per share estimates, suggesting business headwinds could lay ahead for Incyte. Fortunately, the analysts also reconfirmed their revenue estimates, suggesting that it's tracking in line with expectations. Although our data does suggest that Incyte's revenue is expected to perform worse than the wider industry. The consensus price target held steady at US$76.01, with the latest estimates not enough to have an impact on their price targets.Following on from that line of thought, we think that the long-term prospects of the business are much more relevant than next year's earnings. We have forecasts for Incyte going out to 2026, and you can see them free on our platform here.We also provide an overview of the Incyte Board and CEO remuneration and length of tenure at the company, and whether insiders have been buying the stock, here.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

Incyte Corporation (NASDAQ:INCY) Yearly Results Just Came Out: Here's What Analysts Are Forecasting For This Year

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/incyte-corporation-nasdaq-incy-yearly-110335934.html

2ee5fa47-fb3c-3b0e-9a4d-260aca1f038e

INCY

WILMINGTON, Del., February 15, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Incyte (Nasdaq:INCY) announced today that it will present at the Cowen 44th Annual Health Care Conference on Monday, March 4, 2024 at 9:50 a.m. (EST) in Boston.The presentation will be webcast live and can be accessed at Investor.Incyte.com and will be available for replay for 30 days.About IncyteA global biopharmaceutical company on a mission to Solve On., Incyte follows the science to find solutions for patients with unmet medical needs. Through the discovery, development and commercialization of proprietary therapeutics, Incyte has established a portfolio of first-in-class medicines for patients and a strong pipeline of products in Oncology and Inflammation & Autoimmunity. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, Incyte has operations in North America, Europe and Asia.For additional information on Incyte, please visit Incyte.com or follow us on social media: LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240215941438/en/ContactsIncyte Media [email protected] [email protected]

Business Wire

Incyte to Present at Upcoming Investor Conference

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/incyte-present-upcoming-investor-conference-130000410.html

2b4336f3-b9dc-392d-965f-bc64c7ba085c

INCY

Randomized Phase 2 study met its primary and secondary endpoints following 16 weeks of treatment across all dosing groups, reinforcing povorcitinib’s potential role in treating prurigo nodularis (PN)Results presented as a late-breaking oral presentation at the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting marks Incyte’s first presentation of data in PNWILMINGTON, Del., March 10, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Incyte (Nasdaq:INCY) today announced results from a Phase 2 study evaluating the efficacy and safety of povorcitinib (INCB54707), an oral JAK1 inhibitor, in adult patients with prurigo nodularis (PN). These data were presented as a late-breaking oral presentation (Session: S050 – Late-Breaking Research: Session 2) at the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting, held from March 8-12, 2024, in San Diego.The study met its primary endpoint with a ≥4-point improvement in itch Numerical Rating Scale (NRS4) score achieved by significantly more patients who received povorcitinib across all dosing groups (36.1% [P<0.01], 44.4% [P<0.001], 54.1% [P<0.0001] for 15, 45, 75 mg, respectively) than those who received placebo (8.1%) at Week 16. Median times to itch NRS4 were 58, 35 and 17 days for patients who received 15, 45 and 75 mg of povorcitinib, respectively, and was not estimable for the placebo arm."PN is a condition that can cause itchy bumps on the skin called nodules, which appear after excessive scratching. Despite the severity of the disease and the significant impact it can have on a patient’s day-to-day life, there remains a significant need for effective treatments," said Kurt Brown, M.D., Vice President and povorcitinib Global Program Head, Incyte. "These Phase 2 results, particularly the demonstrated improvement in itch resolution after just four weeks of treatment, are promising for patients around the world living with this disease. We are excited to be expanding research on povorcitinib into this new potential indication."Story continuesThe secondary endpoints of the study were also met. At Week 16, 13.9%, 30.6% and 48.6% of patients who received 15, 45 and 75 mg of povorcitinib, respectively, achieved an Investigator’s Global Assessment Treatment Success (IGA-TS) score of 0 or 1 with a ≥2-grade improvement from baseline, versus 5.4% of patients who received placebo. Further, 8.3%, 22.2% and 35.1% of patients who received 15, 45 and 75 mg of povorcitinib, respectively, achieved both itch NRS4 and IGA-TS at Week 16, versus 2.5% of patients who received placebo.Povorcitinib was generally well-tolerated, and the safety profile was consistent with previously reported data. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) among patients who received povorcitinib were headache (11.1%), fatigue (9.3%) and nasopharyngitis (7.4%). Grade ≥3 TEAEs and serious TEAEs occurred in four (3.7%) and nine (8.3%) povorcitinib-treated patients, respectively, and discontinuations due to AEs were infrequent (povorcitinib, n=5 [4.6%]; placebo, n=1 [2.7%])."PN can often be difficult to treat due to the uncontrollable itching and scratching, which can multiply the nodules that appear on a patient’s skin," said Dr. Martin Metz, Professor of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité. "Breaking the itch-scratch cycle is imperative when treating patients with PN, and I’m encouraged by these results illustrating improvement in itch and also skin clearance by Week 16 which shows promise for povorcitinib as a potential novel treatment option for these patients."More information regarding the AAD Annual Meeting 2024 can be found at https://www.aad.org/member/meetings-education/am24.About Prurigo NodularisPrurigo nodularis (PN) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by intense itch and thickened red bumps on the arms, legs and trunk.1 Due to the result of persistent, intense scratching and rubbing of the skin, PN results in itchy bumps on the skin called "nodules".2 PN appears to be more common in older individuals, and the painful bumps and constant itch can have a substantial impact on a patient’s sleep and overall quality of life.1About the Phase 2 Study (NCT05061693)This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 2 clinical trial is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of povorcitinib (INCB54707) in adult patients with prurigo nodularis (PN), over 16 weeks, followed by a 24-week extension. The study consists of 146 adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) diagnosed with PN who have had inadequate response or are intolerant to prior PN therapy.The primary outcome measure of the study is proportion of participants achieving ≥ 4-point improvement in itch Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) score over 16 weeks. The secondary outcome measures include proportion of participants achieving Investigator's Global Assessment Treatment Success (IGA-TS) at Week 16, the proportion of patients achieving both IGA-TS and a ≥ 4-point improvement from baseline in itch NRS score assessed up to Week 16 and number of participants experiencing treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), assessed up to Week 16.For more information about the study, please visit https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05061693.About Povorcitinib (INCB54707)Povorcitinib (INCB54707) is an oral small-molecule JAK1 inhibitor currently in Phase 3 clinical trials for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and vitiligo. A Phase 3 trial is being planned for prurigo nodularis (PN). Phase 2 studies of povorcitinib in PN, asthma and chronic spontaneous urticaria are also ongoing.About Incyte DermatologyIncyte’s science-first approach and expertise in immunology has formed the foundation of the company. Today, we are building on this legacy as we discover and develop innovative dermatology treatments to bring solutions to patients in need.Our research and development efforts in dermatology are initially focused on leveraging our knowledge of the JAK-STAT pathway. We are exploring the potential of JAK inhibition for a number of immune-mediated dermatologic conditions with a high unmet medical need, including atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, hidradenitis suppurativa, lichen planus, lichen sclerosus and prurigo nodularis.To learn more, visit the Dermatology section of Incyte.com.About IncyteA global biopharmaceutical company on a mission to Solve On., Incyte follows the science to find solutions for patients with unmet medical needs. Through the discovery, development and commercialization of proprietary therapeutics, Incyte has established a portfolio of first-in-class medicines for patients and a strong pipeline of products in Oncology and Inflammation & Autoimmunity. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, Incyte has operations in North America, Europe and Asia. For additional information on Incyte, please visit Incyte.com or follow us on social media: LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube.Incyte Forward-Looking StatementsExcept for the historical information set forth herein, the matters set forth in this press release, including statements regarding the presentation of data from Incyte’s clinical development pipeline, whether or when povorcitinib will be approved or commercially available for use in humans anywhere in the world and Incyte’s goal of improving the lives of patients, contain predictions, estimates and other forward-looking statements.These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially, including unanticipated developments in and risks related to: unanticipated delays; further research and development and the results of clinical trials possibly being unsuccessful or insufficient to meet applicable regulatory standards or warrant continued development; the ability to enroll sufficient numbers of subjects in clinical trials and the ability to enroll subjects in accordance with planned schedules; determinations made by the FDA and regulatory agencies outside of the United States; the efficacy or safety of our products; the acceptance of our products in the marketplace; market competition; unexpected variations in the demand for our products and the products of our collaboration partners; the effects of announced or unexpected price regulation or limitations on reimbursement or coverage for our products; sales, marketing, manufacturing, and distribution requirements, including our ability to successfully commercialize and build commercial infrastructure for newly approved products and any additional new products that become approved; and other risks detailed from time to time in our reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2023. We disclaim any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.1 National Organization for Rare Disorders. Prurigo Nodularis. https://rarediseases.org/rarediseases/prurigo-nodularis/. Accessed on February 7, 2024.2 Yale Medicine. Prurigo Nodularis. https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/prurigo-nodularis-overview. Accessed February 7, 2024.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240310275231/en/ContactsMedia [email protected] [email protected]

Business Wire

Incyte Presents New Late-Breaking Data from Phase 2 Study Evaluating Povorcitinib in Patients with Prurigo Nodularis

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/incyte-presents-breaking-data-phase-200500054.html

1249091a-2bab-35d5-a4ee-2a83f3cf7912

INCY

Randomized Phase 2 study met the primary endpoint in patents with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), reinforcing efficacy and safety profile of ruxolitinib creamResults presented as a late-breaking oral presentation at the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual MeetingWILMINGTON, Del., March 10, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Incyte (Nasdaq:INCY) today announced new results from a Phase 2 study evaluating the efficacy and safety of twice-daily ruxolitinib cream 1.5% (Opzelura®) in adult patients with Hurley stage 1 or 2 (mild-to-moderate) hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). These data were presented as a late-breaking oral presentation (Session: S050 – Late-Breaking Research: Session 2) at the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting, held from March 8-12, 2024, in San Diego.The study met its primary endpoint, demonstrating a significantly greater reduction in abscess and inflammatory nodule (AN) count in patients treated with ruxolitinib cream 1.5%, compared to those who applied the vehicle control (least squares mean change of -3.61 for ruxolitinib cream 1.5% vs. -2.42 for vehicle control; P<0.05) at Week 16."The results presented today reinforce the efficacy and safety profile of ruxolitinib cream, which shows great potential for people living with milder HS," said Jim Lee, M.D., Ph.D., Group Vice President, Inflammation & AutoImmunity, Incyte. "Despite its daily impact on the lives of patients, there are currently no approved therapies for mild-to-moderate HS and the current standard of care is often inadequate. Today’s data represent an important step in progressing research for HS with the goal of being able to provide patients with an effective option to better manage their condition."Additional secondary endpoints of the study included:More than three quarters (79.2%) of on-treatment patients achieved at least a 50% reduction in AN count (AN50), 54.2% achieved a 75% reduction (AN75), 20.8% achieved 90% reduction (AN90), and 20.8% achieved complete clearance (100% reduction, AN100), surpassing the 56.3%, 25.0%, 12.5% and 12.5% reductions, respectively, in the vehicle control group.The majority (79.2%) of patients in the ruxolitinib cream 1.5% group met the criteria for Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response (HiSCR), which indicates a 50% or greater reduction in AN count without an increase in abscesses or draining fistulas, compared to 50.0% of patients in the vehicle control group.Patients treated with ruxolitinib cream 1.5% showed a greater mean reduction in the International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Score System (IHS4) score compared to baseline at Week 16 (-4.46) compared to the vehicle group (-2.66).Story continuesPatients treated with ruxolitinib cream 1.5% showed a change -1.85 and -1.42 from baseline in the Skin Pain Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and Itch NRS at Week 16, respectively, versus a -2.61 and -2.75 change from those in the vehicle control group. Due to patient eligibility criteria, patients studied did not have high itch or skin pain scores at baseline; however, additional research is needed to evaluate treatment impact on skin pain and itch scores.The study results showed that ruxolitinib cream 1.5% was generally well-tolerated. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 38.2% of patients who applied ruxolitinib cream 1.5% versus 42.9% of patients who applied vehicle control. The most common TEAEs among patients receiving ruxolitinib cream 1.5% were COVID-19 (5.9%) and nasopharyngitis (5.9%). Discontinuation due to TEAEs were infrequent (ruxolitinib cream 1.5%, n=2 [5.9%]; vehicle control, n=0 [0%]), and no serious TEAEs were reported in the ruxolitinib cream 1.5% group."HS is a chronic, debilitating skin condition that unfortunately has no cure, so managing the signs and symptoms through an effective treatment is key to ensuring patients are able to live their lives with minimal impact from this disease," said Dr. Martina J. Porter, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. "Better disease control can help manage the persistent symptoms of HS for these patients. There still remains a very large need for effective therapies for patients with HS, particularly for those with milder HS, and I’m encouraged by the results from this Phase 2 study of ruxolitinib cream for this patient population."More information regarding the AAD Annual Meeting 2024 can be found at https://www.aad.org/member/meetings-education/am24.About Hidradenitis SuppurativaHidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by painful nodules and abscesses that can lead to irreversible tissue destruction and scarring.1,2 Over-activity of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway is believed to drive inflammation involved in the pathogenesis and progression of HS.3 More than 150,000 patients in the U.S. are estimated to have moderate-to-severe HS.4 Given the debilitating nature of condition, it can have a profoundly negative effect on patients’ quality of life.5About the Phase 2 Study (NCT05635838)This randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled Phase 2 clinical trial is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ruxolitinib cream 1.5% (Opzelura®) in patients with mild-to-moderate hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). The study enrolled 69 adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) diagnosed with Hurley stage 1 or 2 HS who have a total abscess and inflammatory nodule (AN) count of 3 to ≤ 10, with no draining tunnels at screening and baseline visits.The primary outcome measure of the study is change from baseline in AN count at Week 16. Secondary outcome measures include proportion of participants achieving reduction in AN count relative to baseline, change from baseline in the Skin Pain Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), change from baseline in the itch NRS score, proportion of participants who achieve Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response (HiSCR), change from baseline in the International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Score System (IHS4) score and number of TEAEs.For more information about the study, please visit https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05635838.About Opzelura® (ruxolitinib) Cream 1.5%Opzelura, a novel cream formulation of Incyte’s selective JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor ruxolitinib, is approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for the topical treatment of nonsegmental vitiligo in patients 12 years of age and older, and is the first and only treatment for repigmentation approved for use in the United States. Opzelura is also approved in the U.S. for the topical short-term and non-continuous chronic treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) in non-immunocompromised patients 12 years of age and older whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies, or when those therapies are not advisable. Use of Opzelura in combination with therapeutic biologics, other JAK inhibitors, or potent immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine or cyclosporine, is not recommended.Opzelura and the Opzelura logo are registered trademarks of Incyte.IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATIONOPZELURA is for use on the skin only. Do not use OPZELURA in your eyes, mouth, or vagina.OPZELURA may cause serious side effects, including:Serious Infections: OPZELURA contains ruxolitinib. Ruxolitinib belongs to a class of medicines called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. JAK inhibitors are medicines that affect your immune system. JAK inhibitors can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Some people have had serious infections while taking JAK inhibitors by mouth, including tuberculosis (TB), and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have been hospitalized or died from these infections. Some people have had serious infections of their lungs while taking OPZELURA. Your healthcare provider should watch you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during treatment with OPZELURA.OPZELURA should not be used in people with an active, serious infection, including localized infections. You should not start using OPZELURA if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. You may be at a higher risk of developing shingles (herpes zoster) while using OPZELURA.Increased risk of death due to any reason (all causes): Increased risk of death has happened in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking a medicine in the class of medicines called JAK inhibitors by mouth.Cancer and immune system problems: OPZELURA may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Lymphoma and other cancers have happened in people taking a medicine in the class of medicines called JAK inhibitors by mouth. People taking JAK inhibitors by mouth have a higher risk of certain cancers including lymphoma and lung cancer, especially if they are a current or past smoker. Some people have had skin cancers while using OPZELURA. Your healthcare provider will regularly check your skin during your treatment with OPZELURA. Limit the amount of time you spend in the sunlight. Wear protective clothing when you are in the sun and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen.Increased risk of major cardiovascular events: Increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, or death have happened in people 50 years of age and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and taking a medicine in the class of medicines called JAK inhibitors by mouth, especially in current or past smokers.Blood clots: Blood clots in the veins of your legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT) or lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE) can happen in some people taking OPZELURA. This may be life-threatening. Blood clots in the vein of the legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT) and lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE) have happened more often in people who are 50 years of age and older and with at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor taking a medicine in the class of medicines called JAK inhibitors by mouth.Low blood cell counts: OPZELURA may cause low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), low red blood cell counts (anemia), and low white blood cell counts (neutropenia). If needed, your healthcare provider will do a blood test to check your blood cell counts during your treatment with OPZELURA and may stop your treatment if signs or symptoms of low blood cell counts happen.Cholesterol increases: Cholesterol increase has happened in people when ruxolitinib is taken by mouth. Tell your healthcare provider if you have high cholesterol or triglycerides.Before starting OPZELURA, tell your healthcare provider if you:have an infection, are being treated for one, or have had an infection that does not go away or keeps coming backhave diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune systemhave TB or have been in close contact with someone with TBhave had shingles (herpes zoster)have or have had hepatitis B or Clive, have lived in, or have traveled to certain parts of the country (such as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections. These infections may happen or become more severe if you use OPZELURA. Ask your healthcare provider if you do not know if you have lived in an area where these infections are common.think you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection such as: fever, sweating, or chills, muscle aches, cough or shortness of breath, blood in your phlegm, weight loss, warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body, diarrhea or stomach pain, burning when you urinate or urinating more often than usual, feeling very tiredhave ever had any type of cancer, or are a current or past smokerhave had a heart attack, other heart problems, or a strokehave had blood clots in the veins of your legs or lungs in the pasthave high cholesterol or triglycerideshave or have had low white or red blood cell countsare pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if OPZELURA will harm your unborn baby. There is a pregnancy exposure registry for individuals who use OPZELURA during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. If you become exposed to OPZELURA during pregnancy, you and your healthcare provider should report exposure to Incyte Corporation at 1-855-463-3463.are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if OPZELURA passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with OPZELURA and for about 4 weeks after the last dose.After starting OPZELURA:Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of an infection. OPZELURA can make you more likely to get infections or make worse any infections that you have.Get emergency help right away if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while using OPZELURA, including:discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes backsevere tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jawpain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomachshortness of breath with or without chest discomfortbreaking out in a cold sweatnausea or vomitingfeeling lightheadedweakness in one part or on one side of your bodyslurred speechTell your healthcare provider right away if you have any signs and symptoms of blood clots during treatment with OPZELURA, including: swelling, pain, or tenderness in one or both legs, sudden, unexplained chest or upper back pain, or shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop or have worsening of any symptoms of low blood cell counts, such as: unusual bleeding, bruising, tiredness, shortness of breath, or fever.Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.The most common side effects of OPZELURA in people treated for atopic dermatitis include: common cold (nasopharyngitis), diarrhea, bronchitis, ear infection, increase in a type of white blood cell (eosinophil) count, hives, inflamed hair pores (folliculitis), swelling of the tonsils (tonsillitis), and runny nose (rhinorrhea).The most common side effects of OPZELURA in people treated for nonsegmental vitiligo include: acne at the application site, itching at the application site, common cold (nasopharyngitis), headache, urinary tract infection, redness at the application site, and fever.These are not all of the possible side effects of OPZELURA. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to Incyte Corporation at 1-855-463-3463.Please see the Full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning, and Medication Guide for OPZELURA.INDICATIONS AND USAGEOPZELURA is a prescription medicine used on the skin (topical) for:short-term and non-continuous chronic treatment of mild to moderate eczema (atopic dermatitis) in non-immunocompromised adults and children 12 years of age and older whose disease is not well controlled with topical prescription therapies or when those therapies are not recommendedthe treatment of a type of vitiligo called nonsegmental vitiligo in adults and children 12 years of age and olderThe use of OPZELURA along with therapeutic biologics, other JAK inhibitors, or strong immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine is not recommended.It is not known if OPZELURA is safe and effective in children less than 12 years of age with atopic dermatitis or nonsegmental vitiligo.About Incyte DermatologyIncyte’s science-first approach and expertise in immunology has formed the foundation of the company. Today, we are building on this legacy as we discover and develop innovative dermatology treatments to bring solutions to patients in need.Our research and development efforts in dermatology are initially focused on leveraging our knowledge of the JAK-STAT pathway. We are exploring the potential of JAK inhibition for a number of immune-mediated dermatologic conditions with a high unmet medical need, including atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, hidradenitis suppurativa, lichen planus, lichen sclerosus and prurigo nodularis.To learn more, visit the Dermatology section of Incyte.com.About IncyteA global biopharmaceutical company on a mission to Solve On., Incyte follows the science to find solutions for patients with unmet medical needs. Through the discovery, development and commercialization of proprietary therapeutics, Incyte has established a portfolio of first-in-class medicines for patients and a strong pipeline of products in Oncology and Inflammation & Autoimmunity. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, Incyte has operations in North America, Europe and Asia. For additional information on Incyte, please visit Incyte.com or follow us on social media: LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube.Incyte Forward-Looking StatementsExcept for the historical information set forth herein, the matters set forth in this press release, including statements regarding the presentation of data from Incyte’s clinical development pipeline, whether or when ruxolitinib cream might be approved in HS and/or offer patients with HS an effective treatment, and Incyte’s goal of improving the lives of patients, contain predictions, estimates and other forward-looking statements.These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially, including unanticipated developments in and risks related to: unanticipated delays; further research and development and the results of clinical trials possibly being unsuccessful or insufficient to meet applicable regulatory standards or warrant continued development; the ability to enroll sufficient numbers of subjects in clinical trials and the ability to enroll subjects in accordance with planned schedules; determinations made by the FDA and regulatory agencies outside of the United States; our dependence on relationships with and changes in the plans and expenditures of our collaboration partners; the efficacy or safety of our products and the products of our collaboration partners; the acceptance of our products and the products of our collaboration partners in the marketplace; market competition; unexpected variations in the demand for our products and the products of our collaboration partners; the effects of announced or unexpected price regulation or limitations on reimbursement or coverage for our products and the products of our collaboration partners; sales, marketing, manufacturing, and distribution requirements, including our and our collaboration partners’ ability to successfully commercialize and build commercial infrastructure for newly approved products and any additional new products that become approved; and other risks detailed from time to time in our reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2023. We disclaim any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.1National Center for Advancing Translational Science Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. Hidradenitis suppurativa. https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/6658/hidradenitis-suppurativa. Accessed February 7, 2024.2Kirby J, et al. Efficacy and Safety of the Janus Kinase 1 Inhibitor Povorcitinib (INCB054707) in Patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Results from a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 2 Dose-Ranging Study. Presented at the 31st European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress, September 7-10, 2022.3Solimani, F., Meier, K., & Ghoreschi, K. (2019). Emerging topical and systemic JAK inhibitors in dermatology. Frontiers in immunology, 10, 2847.4McMillan, K. Hidradenitis suppurativa: number of diagnosed patients, demographic characteristics, and treatment patterns in the United States. Am J Epidemiol. 2014 Jun 15;179(12):1477-83. doi: 10.1093/aje/kwu078. Epub 2014 May 8.5Sabat, R., Jemec, G. B., Matusiak, Ł., Kimball, A. B., Prens, E., & Wolk, K. (2020). Hidradenitis suppurativa. Nature reviews Disease primers, 6(1), 18. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240310012701/en/ContactsMedia [email protected] [email protected]

Business Wire

Incyte Announces New Data from Phase 2 Study Evaluating Ruxolitinib Cream (Opzelura®) in Patients with Mild-to-Moderate Hidradenitis Suppurativa

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/incyte-announces-data-phase-2-200500493.html

b9ef8b1e-bb2d-343d-93d2-211fa297fc33

INTC

(Bloomberg) -- Advanced semiconductor companies have requested more than double the amount of available federal funds for projects in the US, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said, referring to a program designed to bring chip manufacturing back to American soil.Most Read from BloombergBYD’s New $233,450 EV Supercar to Rival Ferrari, LamborghiniStock Rally Stalls at Start of Data-Packed Week: Markets WrapA Spike in Heart Disease Deaths Since Covid Is Puzzling ScientistsFreddie Mercury’s London Residence Lists at £30 MillionJacob Rothschild, Financier and Philanthropist, Dies at 87Leading-edge firms — which include Intel Corp., Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and Samsung Electronics Co. — are seeking more than $70 billion from the 2022 Chips Act, Raimondo said Monday in remarks at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.The legislation set aside $39 billion in grants — plus loans and loan guarantees valued at $75 billion — to revitalize US semiconductor manufacturing after decades of production abroad. The Commerce Department plans to spend $28 billion of that $39 billion pool on leading-edge facilities, Raimondo said.Read More: Ex-Bankers Help Divvy Up $100 Billion to Boost US ChipmakingIntel is in talks with President Joe Biden’s administration for more than $10 billion in incentives spread across grants and loans, Bloomberg reported earlier this month. US officials aim to announce major awards, including Intel’s, by the end of March.Raimondo also said her department will surpass a minimum $2 billion in spending on older-generation chips, which are still essential to the global economy. The agency has announced three awards so far, totaling more than $1.5 billion, to companies that produce those mature semiconductor models.More than 600 firms have expressed interest in the program, Raimondo said Monday, emphasizing that “we’re gonna have to say no to excellent companies.” But the agency plans to prioritize smaller grants to smaller applicants alongside multi-billion dollar awards expected for industry giants. They will also prioritize projects that will be complete by 2030, Raimondo said.Story continuesChip companies have invested more than $200 billion in the US “before we put out a single dollar,” Raimondo said. The announced awards are still preliminary, pending additional due diligence, and the money will be disbursed over time contingent on companies meeting negotiated benchmarks.All told, Raimondo said, the US is on track to produce 20% of the world’s advanced logic chips by the end of the decade. Asked whether the Chips Act has sufficient funding to achieve that goal, she said, “Yes, I think there’s enough money to achieve that goal. It doesn’t mean that at some future date, we don’t need what some call a Chips Two.”Read More: Raimondo Says US Needs More Chips Funding as AI Fuels Demand(Updates to add additional details throughout.)Most Read from Bloomberg BusinessweekElon Musk’s Vegas Tunnel Project Has Been Racking Up Safety ViolationsThe High Cost of Eating Out in AmericaTranscript: Did Musk Buy Twitter to Keep His Movements Secret?Why Elon Musk Bought Twitter in the First PlaceCan the Masters of Hipster Cringe Conquer Hollywood With Wall Street Cash?©2024 Bloomberg L.P.

Bloomberg

Advanced Chip Firms Want $70 Billion From US, Raimondo Says

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/advanced-chip-firms-want-70-165022541.html

302f3db3-8419-31d5-9c61-5e328d09bff2

INTC

The Biden administration laid out an ambitious new goal for the US: produce 20% of the world’s most advanced semiconductor chips by the end of the decade.Achieving that mark — set by Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in a speech Monday morning — would be a dramatic turnabout for the US.It currently makes 0% of the so-called leading edge logic chips that are considerably more powerful than older-generation semiconductors, making them crucial for everything from mobile phones to AI to quantum computing."That's a big number, yes," Raimondo said of the 20% goal while speaking at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.The Biden administration hopes to help the country hit that ambitious mark with investments set aside by an 18-month-old law called the CHIPS and Science Act.The legislation allows the White House to spend $50 billion in taxpayer dollars — $39 billion specifically earmarked for manufacturing — to try and help reignite American manufacturing in the years ahead.Raimondo is overseeing the funds and says she will focus on helping projects that will be online this decade, a challenge for some of these incredibly complex efforts that require specialized equipment and supply chains.Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo in November at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in California. (Kent Nishimura/Getty Images) (Kent Nishimura via Getty Images)Not all companies may be happy with what they receive. The 2030 goal means many proposals with a longer timeline will not receive a grant, Raimondo said. Others may receive less than half of what they asked for because of limited funds."These are tough negotiations; that's our job," she said.Raimondo oversees a team of more than 200 people charged with implementing the legislation that was designed to confront America's falling share of semiconductor manufacturing.America produced nearly 40% of the world's chips in 1990, but less than 10% are made in the US today, according to the White House.The situation is even worse with the world's most advanced semiconductors: 100% of those are currently manufactured overseas, mostly in Taiwan.Story continuesThus far, three smaller manufacturing awards have been rolled out to BAE Systems (BAESY), Microchip Technology, and GlobalFoundries (GFS).But the vast majority of the work on building those leading edge chips will fall to giant players who are still waiting for their awards to be finalized. Intel (INTC), which is building a new factory in Ohio, is reportedly in talks for as much as $10 billion of that government money.Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is another likely recipient, and Raimondo signaled Monday that it could be in line for help.She called a proposed project by the company in Arizona "pathbreaking" and lauded it for investing in the US, promising, "We're going to make sure it's successful."Ben Werschkul is Washington correspondent for Yahoo Finance.Click here for politics news related to business and moneyRead the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance

Yahoo Finance

Biden wants the US to make 20% of all high-end chips by end of the decade

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/biden-wants-the-us-to-make-20-of-all-high-end-chips-by-end-of-the-decade-182847439.html

00f9f34b-3f14-4558-977a-a67ac50ea306

INTC

If you're wondering why the stock market is back at all-time highs, there's one simple explanation: The "Magnificent Seven."This is the group of the seven most valuable tech stocks that include Microsoft, Apple, Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), Alphabet, Amazon, Meta Platforms, and Tesla.These stocks delivered monster returns last year, and many of them are off to strong starts in 2024, capitalizing on the AI boom and the recovery coming out of the 2022 bear market. Today, Microsoft is the most valuable Magnificent Seven stock and the most valuable company in the world. However, I think we could see a passing of the torch this year. The company that is set to take Microsoft's place? AI superstar Nvidia, which is already dominating the AI chip market and the stock market narrative.Here are a few of the reasons Nvidia is a good bet to be the most valuable company in the world by the end of the year.Image source: Getty Images.1. Nvidia's competition still isn't closeIt's no secret that Nvidia has ridden the generative AI boom to record returns. Since the start of 2023, the stock is up by more than 500%, topping a $1 trillion market cap before passing $2 trillion earlier this year.Its revenue has tripled and its profit is growing even faster, largely because Nvidia sells the vital components to build out the AI models and applications that almost every major corporation sees is betting on. That tech infrastructure relies on Nvidia's graphics processing units (GPUs), and there's been extraordinary demand for them as analysts estimate that the company owns a 98% share of the data center GPU market.It's true that competition is on the way. AMD launched its MI300 generative AI accelerator in December, but the company's first-quarter guidance indicates that its data center revenue will still be a fraction of Nvidia's.Competition entering the market doesn't mean it will make a significant dent in Nvidia's lead as Nvidia has technological and structural advantages over its aspiring rivals. Some industry insiders have predicted as much as well.Story continuesFor example, Matt Wood, a vice president of artificial intelligence products at AmazonWeb Services told The Information, "There's no meaningful competition" for Nvidia, and he was skeptical that AMD or anyone else could pose a significant challenge to the AI chip leader.If Nvidia can successfully defend its market share against AMD, Intel, and others, the stock should move even higher.2. Supply will remain constrainedSkeptics believe that Nvidia and other AI stocks are in a bubble, and its bumper profit is temporarily inflated by supply constraints for AI chips. Once that supply crunch is solved, they argue, prices will come down and Nvidia's profit will fall.However, there's no sign that supply imbalance will resolve itself anytime soon.Nvidia CFO Colette Kress said on the recent earnings call, "We expect our next-generation products to be supply constrained as demand far exceeds supply," and CEO Jensen Huang elaborated, noting that supply is improving, but added, "We expect the demand will continue to be stronger than our supply."Huang made another point that's key to understanding the supply demand dynamic in AI chips, saying, "With all of the new products, demand is greater than supply. And that's just kind of the nature of new products."While competition may fill in supply for less powerful components, demand for cutting-edge technology is likely to continue to be difficult to meet, and that's where Nvidia excels. It should remain the leader in the product category, GPUs, which it invented 25 years ago and has advanced ever since.3. Nvidia will penetrate new marketsWhile Nvidia's near-term success will be determined by its data center business, investors shouldn't forget that the company has the ability to move into new markets such as PC chips, which it announced in January, and it's well positioned to capitalize on evolving markets such as autonomous vehicles and the metaverse.Nvidia's technology has a long history of finding new applications, including digital gaming, cryptocurrency mining, and now AI, but it's a mistake to think that it won't penetrate and dominate new markets as it's done with AI.The PC chip market presents an attractive opportunity for Nvidia, with tens of billions of dollars of annual revenue available, and Nvidia could turn the tables on AMD and Intel there, taking market share from them in PCs rather than ceding it in AI.4. Wall Street continues to underestimate Nvidia stockNvidia has soared past Wall Street's expectations in each of its past four quarters, showing that analysts continue to underestimate the company's growth and demand for its AI components.Currently, the average analyst expects Nvidia to generate earnings per share of $24.50, but that number is likely to go up, assuming the company's current momentum continues.At that valuation, Nvidia is trading at a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of less than 40, making it not much more expensive than Apple or Microsoft, the two companies it's chasing to gain the title of the top Magnificent Seven stock. Microsoft trades at a P/E ratio of 35, based on estimates for its fiscal year that ends in June, and Apple trades at a forward P/E of 26.At a market cap of $2.32 trillion, Nvidia's stock price would have to increase 31% to eclipse Microsoft's current level of $3.04 trillion. That kind of gain looks to be within reach for Nvidia, given its dominance of AI chips and the ongoing supply crunch that should support its wide profit margin.It's no accident that Nvidia stock has skyrocketed in the AI boom. It holds the key to unlocking the power of generative AI, and that seems unlikely to change. As demand grows for AI and the components that make it work, Nvidia should go even higher.Should you invest $1,000 in Nvidia right now?Before you buy stock in Nvidia, consider this:The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Nvidia wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*.See the 10 stocks*Stock Advisor returns as of March 11, 2024Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Randi Zuckerberg, a former director of market development and spokeswoman for Facebook and sister to Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Jeremy Bowman has positions in Amazon and Meta Platforms. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Advanced Micro Devices, Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla. The Motley Fool recommends Intel and recommends the following options: long January 2023 $57.50 calls on Intel, long January 2025 $45 calls on Intel, long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft, short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft, and short May 2024 $47 calls on Intel. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.Prediction: This Will Be the Most Valuable "Magnificent Seven" Stock by the End of 2024 was originally published by The Motley Fool

Motley Fool

Prediction: This Will Be the Most Valuable "Magnificent Seven" Stock by the End of 2024

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/prediction-most-valuable-magnificent-seven-171500467.html

b0df134f-f247-3e9f-8fc6-eab6878d5bd1

INTC

Intel (INTC) closed the most recent trading day at $44.87, moving +1.98% from the previous trading session. The stock's change was more than the S&P 500's daily loss of 0.11%. At the same time, the Dow added 0.12%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq lost 0.41%.Shares of the world's largest chipmaker witnessed a gain of 1.59% over the previous month, beating the performance of the Computer and Technology sector with its gain of 1.42% and underperforming the S&P 500's gain of 2.7%.Investors will be eagerly watching for the performance of Intel in its upcoming earnings disclosure. It is anticipated that the company will report an EPS of $0.13, marking a 425% rise compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Alongside, our most recent consensus estimate is anticipating revenue of $12.76 billion, indicating an 8.92% upward movement from the same quarter last year.For the annual period, the Zacks Consensus Estimates anticipate earnings of $1.32 per share and a revenue of $57.77 billion, signifying shifts of +25.71% and +6.54%, respectively, from the last year.It is also important to note the recent changes to analyst estimates for Intel. Such recent modifications usually signify the changing landscape of near-term business trends. Hence, positive alterations in estimates signify analyst optimism regarding the company's business and profitability.Empirical research indicates that these revisions in estimates have a direct correlation with impending stock price performance. To utilize this, we have created the Zacks Rank, a proprietary model that integrates these estimate changes and provides a functional rating system.The Zacks Rank system, ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), possesses a remarkable history of outdoing, externally audited, with #1 stocks returning an average annual gain of +25% since 1988. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has witnessed a 4.66% decrease. Currently, Intel is carrying a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).Story continuesWith respect to valuation, Intel is currently being traded at a Forward P/E ratio of 33.29. This represents a premium compared to its industry's average Forward P/E of 29.95.Also, we should mention that INTC has a PEG ratio of 2.22. This metric is used similarly to the famous P/E ratio, but the PEG ratio also takes into account the stock's expected earnings growth rate. The Semiconductor - General industry had an average PEG ratio of 2.65 as trading concluded yesterday.The Semiconductor - General industry is part of the Computer and Technology sector. This group has a Zacks Industry Rank of 89, putting it in the top 36% of all 250+ industries.The strength of our individual industry groups is measured by the Zacks Industry Rank, which is calculated based on the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within these groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.Don't forget to use Zacks.com to keep track of all these stock-moving metrics, and others, in the upcoming trading sessions.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportIntel Corporation (INTC) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Why the Market Dipped But Intel (INTC) Gained Today

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-market-dipped-intel-intc-214517007.html

f5e1920d-bf8e-3a08-af69-12c84f990f02

INTU

In this article, we will take a look at the 20 most creative email newsletter ideas for corporations. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to the 5 Most Creative Email Newsletter Ideas for Corporations.Why Are Over 1.2 Million Websites Using OptinMonster?Companies looking to improve their email marketing functionalities must also focus on enhancing their conversion rates and lead generation volume. There are a range of startups that provide top notch lead generation capabilities. OptinMonster is one such startup. OptinMonster was launched in 2013 and is one of the leading customer acquisition and lead generation software. According to the company, 70% of site visitors happen to abandon a website with no intention to return. The company aims to drastically improve the conversion rates for companies using its OptinMonster Form Builder. Other prominent features of the company include its exit-intent technology, page-level targeting, and its A/B testing functionality.On January 9, OptinMonster launched AI popups with smart optimization to boost the conversation rate for companies. Using the tool, companies can improve their text copy with a single click on the campaign builder platform. Once clicked, users will be able to select the "Start Smart Optimization" feature. The popup will then transform the original drafted copy into an expert level edit. The popup offers five different variations of the text giving marketers the freedom to choose.On February 15, OptinMonster announced the acquisition of Beacon Lead Magnet Creator. The acquisition is aimed at helping small businesses generate more leads. According to the company, the best way to grow lists is to install a lead magnet. A lead magnet is any form of digital content available to users for download. A few examples of a lead magnet include PDF checklists, reports, eBooks, whitepapers, and videos. Once a user signs up, businesses can then use lead magnets to build a long term relationship with that customer via email.Story continuesLeading Email Marketing Software in the IndustrySome of the leading companies specializing in the provision of email marketing automation tools include Klaviyo, Inc. (NYSE:KVYO), HubSpot, Inc. (NYSE:HUBS), and Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU). Let's discuss some recent updates from these companies. You can also take a look at the free low-cost marketing ideas for small businesses.Klaviyo, Inc. (NYSE:KVYO) is a technology company based in Boston. The company offers a range of marketing automation tools, primarily used for email and SMS marketing. On January 25, Klaviyo, Inc. (NYSE:KVYO) posted an update to its product offerings. Companies can now optimize the display times of their signup forms using artificial intelligence. The tool tests multiple versions of a sign-up form at different times of the day. The tool then compares the results and automatically picks the display time yielding the highest customer conversion rate. It is to be noted that customers with over 400,000 profiles are allowed to use the feature.HubSpot, Inc. (NYSE:HUBS) is a leading marketing automation platform used by more than 205,000 companies. On December 4, 2023, HubSpot, Inc. (NYSE:HUBS) announced the acquisition of Clearbit. Clearbit is a leading B2B intelligence data provider. The company will leverage Clearbit's capabilities to bring third-party company data into its system. Such will make HubSpot a primary news source for marketing professionals.Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU) is a leading software company based in California, United States. Mailchimp is a product of Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU). Mailchimp was founded in 2001 and is one of the most prominent marketing automation and email marketing platforms. On October 3, 2023, Mailchimp announced a multi-year bilateral partnership with Wix.com Ltd. (NASDAQ:WIX). Wix is a global SaaS platform. The two companies collaborated to provide customers with improved marketing solutions using CRM data to boost customer engagement and fuel sales growth. Customers using Wix will thoroughly benefit from a complete email marketing suite from Mailchimp.Without further ado, let's take a look at the 20 most creative email newsletter ideas for corporations. You can also read our piece on the best free newsletters to subscribe to in 2024.20 Most Creative Email Newsletter Ideas for Corporations20 Most Creative Email Newsletter Ideas for CorporationsOur MethodologyTo gather a list of the 20 most creative email newsletter ideas for corporations, we consulted over 10 rankings and reports on the internet. We picked the newsletter ideas that appeared in 50% of our sources and then ranked them.By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.20 Most Creative Email Newsletter Ideas for Corporations20. GiveawaysSharing giveaway promotions is among the most creative email newsletter ideas for corporations. Corporations can initiate fun and interesting giveaway campaigns by introducing a sequence of emails that ignite hype.19. New Training OpportunitiesPeople with a passion for learning new things tend to keep an eye on new training opportunities. These training opportunities may involve learning new languages or new skills such as digital marketing, coding, data analytics, and much more. Corporations can share infographics and short videos to promote the training courses.18. QuizzesCorporations can also share fun and intuitive quizzes. These quizzes may help corporations establish a connection with users. The quizzes can be made more interactive with buttons and sliders.17. FAQsMost users have common questions or queries. Corporations can share a weekly newsletter with the most asked questions as a wrap either in video form or in the form of an infographic.16. Industry NewsSome readers seek industry knowledge and want to be educated on the upcoming trends in the industry. Corporations can share industry specific knowledge with targeted customers such as professionals, educators, and specialists.15. User Generated ContentCorporations can not only invite readers to participate in content creation for the company, but they can also share user-generated content to inspire other customers. Users can participate in contests, and campaigns, or compete against other consumers to create content.14. Behind the ScenesGiving a human touch to corporations always helps customers relate to the corporation. Companies can publish weekly updates from inside the corporation so that readers feel like they are part of the organization. Companies may do such by sharing a series of pictures and videos supported by interesting captions.13. How To GuidesPublishing how to guides in the form of a video or the form of an infographic is one of the most creative newsletter ideas for corporations. Users can also answer personalized queries or share guides based on the purchasing habits of users.12. Personalized InfographicsSharing personalized infographics is one of the most creative ways to reach out to regular customers via email newsletters. Users can be provided with automated stats on the time they spent on sites, the number of products they bought, or the number of products they added to their cart over a certain period.11. Conduct SurveysCorporations can conduct surveys using email newsletters. Corporations can offer participants with incentives and giveaways to push them into filling out important surveys.10. Product LaunchesAnnouncing product launches is one of the best ways to capture the audience. Corporations can engage in a product launch campaign entailing a sequence of emails to hype the launch. Targeting the right segment of consumers for the product launch may result in more open rates. Users can share testimonial videos and share high quality infographics to make the product look appealing.9. Case StudiesSharing case studies on popular companies or research papers is an interesting way to grasp the attention of educators, professionals, and students. Corporations must ensure that the case studies are field and industry specific. Depending on the audience, case studies can be shared as infographics or plain text.8. Aesthetic EmailsReaders, depending on age and personality, are often intrigued by aesthetic wallpapers and Polaroid pictures. Sending a round up of some of the best wallpapers would be an amazing way to increase the open rate of emails. However, the content must be age and segment appropriate.7. Round Up of Popular BlogsReporting a round up of popular blogs may help readers catch up on any popular blogs they may have missed out on earlier. Corporations can, however, pick up a collection of popular blogs for distinct segments. Another interesting way to share a round up of blogs would be to curate them based on specific events such as Valentine's Day or Halloween.6. Announce Promotions and DealsCorporations can use email newsletters to their advantage to mass announce promotions and deals. Curating customized promotions and deals for customers based on their likes and dislikes would be beneficial for the corporation. Catchy or witty subject lines followed by personalized content would be a perfect way to grab people's attention.Click to continue reading and see the 5 Most Creative Email Newsletter Ideas for Corporations.Suggested Articles:25 Most Popular Email Newsletters in the US in 202425 Free and Low-Cost Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses13 Best News and Digital Media Stocks To BuyDisclosure: None. 20 Most Creative Email Newsletter Ideas for Corporations is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

20 Most Creative Email Newsletter Ideas for Corporations

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/20-most-creative-email-newsletter-180350794.html

e941f91e-3bb5-3cad-9e32-13edbc331063

INTU

In this article, we will take a look at the 15 Mailchimp alternatives for email newsletters in 2024. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to the 5 Mailchimp Alternatives for Email Newsletters in 2024.Mailchimp: At a GlanceMailchimp is a product of Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU). The company specializes in the production of marketing automation and email marketing tools. The company allows businesses to integrate all their channels using a single platform, making it easier for companies to execute holistic and consistent marketing campaigns. The Mailchimp artificial intelligence tool collects several data points and helps businesses curate the perfect emails for their campaigns.Mailchimp is consistently working on its expansion. On February 7, Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU) announced that the company is set to open a new office in Atlanta. The office will serve as an innovation hub for Mailchimp and Intuit. The new space will be able to house 1,000 employees based in Atlanta. The office spreads across an area of 360,000 square feet, making it Intuit Inc.'s (NASDAQ:INTU) largest innovation hub. Important establishments in the office include the creative lab and several neighborhoods, allowing different teams to collaborate. You can also take a look at the most creative email newsletter ideas for corporations.Leading Email Newsletter PlatformsSome of the companies with the best software for email newsletters include Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM), and HubSpot, Inc. (NYSE:HUBS). These companies provide cross-channel platforms, helping businesses optimize their entire marketing and communications functionality. Let's discuss some recent updates from these companies. You can also take a look at the best marketing software to use for small businesses.Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) offers a reliable tool for sending emails in high volume. The Amazon Simple Email Service (Amazon SES) allows businesses to deliver comprehensive email campaigns without having to install an on-site Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP). Businesses can simply use the Amazon SES API or the SMTP interface. Users can automate messages based on transactions, execute marketing email campaigns, send bulk email communications, and deliver notifications to customers. The company is committed to expanding its presence in countries across the globe. On January 19, Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) announced that it is set to invest a staggering 2.26 trillion yen in its cloud infrastructure in Tokyo and Osaka. This investment is to be made until 2027 and aims to meet the growing demand for cloud services in Japan. The company has been strongly keen on propagating the use of artificial intelligence and industry-specific language models in Japan. To do so, Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) launched the AWS LLM Development Support Program in Japan and made the Amazon Bedrock widely available.Story continuesSalesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM) offers a leading email-sending software. Businesses can use the software to reach their customers through elaborate marketing campaigns. Users send emails to their targeted audience and can test them out to check if all the images, videos, and text appear as intended. The company does not limit itself to offering basic marketing tools. The company goes above and beyond with its tech solutions. On February 14, Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM) launched a new generative artificial intelligence tool in Slack tool for customers. The company introduced an AI-powered search capability, channel recaps, and thread summaries to help users save time. On average, customers save about 97 minutes per week using Slack's new AI tools. The Slack AI is also set to launch a new Digest feature.HubSpot, Inc. (NYSE:HUBS) is a leading software company specializing in the production of software products for marketing, sales, and customer service. Businesses can build comprehensive email campaigns using HubSpot's email marketing tools. The email marketing tools are integrated with the HubSpot CRM, enabling the company to send personalized emails to each customer. Users are also able to conduct thorough A/B tests on their email campaigns. On February 5, HubSpot, Inc. (NYSE:HUBS) published a report on the new marketing tools and features for companies as part of its January 2024 release. The company updated its marketing calendar to a list view to help users assess the list of events across the entire month. The company also updated its email marketing tools to comply with the new one-click unsubscribe requirement by Google and Yahoo. The company also rolled out a new metric for marketers called the Associated Deal Value. "Associated Deal Value" is the sum of the value of all closed deals associated with a campaign.Without further ado, let's take a look at the 15 Mailchimp alternatives for email newsletters in 2024. You can also read our piece on the most profitable email newsletters on Substack.15 Mailchimp Alternatives for Email Newsletters in 202415 Mailchimp Alternatives for Email Newsletters in 2024Our MethodologyIn this article, we will take a look at the 15 Mailchimp alternatives for email newsletters in 2024. To gather a list of the best Mailchimp alternatives, we sifted through over 10 similar rankings on the internet. Of them, we picked the marketing automation software that appeared in at least 50% of our sources. To identify the top 15 items, we sourced the number of customers and pricing packages from the company's official sites. We used the number of customers as our primary metric since it reflects how preferred the software is in the market. Since our consensus gave us a pool of the best automation software, items with the lowest pricing may be the most cost-efficient options for businesses. Our list of the 15 Mailchimp alternatives for email newsletters in 2024 is in ascending order of the number of customers.By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.15 Mailchimp Alternatives for Email Newsletters in 202415. SitecoreNumber of Customers: 3,000Lowest Package Price: N/ASitecore was founded in 2001 in Denmark and is one of the best Mailchimp alternatives to email newsletters. Sitecore Send helps businesses send tailored customer-centric emails to establish lasting relationships. The pricing for Sitecore Send is not publicly available as the company offers personalized pricing.14. DripNumber of Customers: 20,000Lowest Package Price: $39Drip ranks 14th on our list of the best alternatives to Mailchimp for email newsletters in 2024. Users can start a free 14-day free trial by signing up. For $39, users can send unlimited emails to 2,500 people. Users can also conduct onsite campaigns and acquire email support.13. SendGridNumber of Customers: 80,000Lowest Package Price: $0SendGrid is a communication platform for companies. The software helps companies set up transactional and marketing email campaigns. Users can house up to 2,000 contacts and send up to 6,000 emails per month for free. The free version allows businesses to conduct A/B testing, extract important insights, segment contacts, and develop one sign-up form.12. OmnisendNumber of Customers: 100,000Lowest Package Price: $0Omnisend ranks 12th on our list of the best email marketing software in 2024. For no fee, users can add up to 250 contacts, deliver 500 emails per month, and send 500 push notifications per month. All users get a variety of email templates, built-in segments, popups, signup forms, and landing pages.11. AWeberNumber of Customers: 100,000Lowest Package Price: $0AWeber ranks 11th on our list of the best alternatives to Mailchimp for email newsletters in 2024. Users with up to 500 subscribers can opt for the free plan at AWeber. Users can build one email list, develop a landing page, gain access to email automation tools, and acquire basic email support for free.10. KlaviyoNumber of Customers: 130,000Lowest Package Price: $0Klaviyo, Inc. (NYSE:KVYO) ranks as one of the best Mailchimp alternatives for email newsletters in 2024. For no price, businesses can send 500 monthly emails, obtain 150 monthly free SMS/MMS credits, and acquire email support for the first 60 days. Klaviyo, Inc. (NYSE:KVYO) is home to more than 130,000 customers.9. ActiveCampaignNumber of Customers: 185,000Lowest Package Price: $29ActiveCampaign ranks ninth on our list of the best Mailchimp alternatives for email newsletters in 2024. The software company allows small businesses to send emails 10 times the number of contacts for up to 1,000 marketing contacts. Users can avail such for $29 a month. Under this package, businesses can send personalized emails, send inline forms, conduct thorough site and event tracking, and create automation and campaign reports.8. Campaign MonitorNumber of Customers: 200,000Lowest Package Price: $11Campaign Monitor is a product of Marigold, and ranks eighth on our list of the best alternatives to Mailchimp for email newsletters in 2024. The company provides services to more than 200,000 companies across 180 countries. Users can sign up for free and send a campaign to five subscribers. Users must upgrade to a paid plan to send an email to more than 5 subscribers. At $11 per month, users can optimize email and SMS marketing.7. HubSpotNumber of Customers: 205,000Lowest Package Price: $0HubSpot, Inc. (NYSE:HUBS) is a CRM platform that provides a range of marketing automation tools to businesses. More than 205,000 brands use HubSpot to meet their marketing needs. HubSpot's free email hosting software allows businesses to send up to 2,000 emails per month. Users can upgrade to the Marketing Hub Starter, Professional, and Enterprise as the volume of emails grows.6. GetResponseNumber of Customers: 400,000Lowest Package Price: $13.2GetResponse ranks sixth on our list of the best Mailchimp alternatives for email newsletters in 2024. For $13.2 a month, users can send newsletters, gain access to the AI email generator, use the AI campaign generator, develop website and landing pages, and create signup forms and popups. Users can test the platform with a 30-day free trial.Click to continue reading and see the 5 Mailchimp Alternatives for Email Newsletters in 2024.Suggested Articles:12 Best Software Infrastructure Stocks to Buy20 Countries Facing the Biggest Brain Drain17 Countries With Best Universities In AfricaDisclosure: None. 15 Mailchimp Alternatives for Email Newsletters in 2024 is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

15 Mailchimp Alternatives for Email Newsletters in 2024

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/15-mailchimp-alternatives-email-newsletters-220230412.html

a59b9794-c50f-3637-bd95-18da644a18cc

INTU

The most you can lose on any stock (assuming you don't use leverage) is 100% of your money. But when you pick a company that is really flourishing, you can make more than 100%. Long term Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU) shareholders would be well aware of this, since the stock is up 152% in five years. On top of that, the share price is up 14% in about a quarter. But this could be related to the strong market, which is up 11% in the last three months.So let's investigate and see if the longer term performance of the company has been in line with the underlying business' progress. View our latest analysis for Intuit While markets are a powerful pricing mechanism, share prices reflect investor sentiment, not just underlying business performance. One imperfect but simple way to consider how the market perception of a company has shifted is to compare the change in the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price movement.Over half a decade, Intuit managed to grow its earnings per share at 13% a year. This EPS growth is lower than the 20% average annual increase in the share price. This suggests that market participants hold the company in higher regard, these days. And that's hardly shocking given the track record of growth. This optimism is visible in its fairly high P/E ratio of 65.87.You can see below how EPS has changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image).earnings-per-share-growthWe know that Intuit has improved its bottom line lately, but is it going to grow revenue? This free report showing analyst revenue forecasts should help you figure out if the EPS growth can be sustained.What About Dividends?As well as measuring the share price return, investors should also consider the total shareholder return (TSR). The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. So for companies that pay a generous dividend, the TSR is often a lot higher than the share price return. As it happens, Intuit's TSR for the last 5 years was 161%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. And there's no prize for guessing that the dividend payments largely explain the divergence!Story continuesA Different PerspectiveWe're pleased to report that Intuit shareholders have received a total shareholder return of 67% over one year. Of course, that includes the dividend. Since the one-year TSR is better than the five-year TSR (the latter coming in at 21% per year), it would seem that the stock's performance has improved in recent times. Someone with an optimistic perspective could view the recent improvement in TSR as indicating that the business itself is getting better with time. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Intuit better, we need to consider many other factors. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Intuit , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.If you like to buy stocks alongside management, then you might just love this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them).Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on American exchanges.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

Those who invested in Intuit (NASDAQ:INTU) five years ago are up 161%

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/those-invested-intuit-nasdaq-intu-130028527.html

9f73759c-3dd9-3936-a8a9-669c38379e33

INTU

In this article, we will take a look at 13 Countries with the Best Citizenship by Investment Program in the World. You can skip our detailed analysis and go directly to the 5 Countries with the Best Citizenship by Investment Program in the World. The growing trend of increased international mobility has fueled the desire to expand not only one's cultural experiences but also financial ones. With the evolving dynamics of dual citizenship, the appeal for acquiring a second citizenship has intensified, prompting individuals to explore viable options. This is particularly true for investors and high-net-worth individuals. Citizenship-by-investment programs offer one such method, creating a win-win situation for all parties involved. By investing in the host country's economy, investors can secure a second citizenship and passport, while the host country benefits from the influx of foreign direct investment, thereby strengthening its economy.Citizenship By Investment Programs: Host Country Advantages Citizenship-through-investment programs have experienced increasing popularity over time. According to the Investment Migration Council, approximately 5,000 individuals are granted citizenship through investment, annually. It is estimated that citizenship and residence by investment programs contribute between 2% and 30% to the GDP of the host country. The European Parliament Research Service reported earnings of 9.2 billion euros from 2008 to 2018 through investment programs. Similarly, other regions have also reported impressive revenue generation. For instance, Vanuatu earned $40.5 million from citizenship-by-investment programs from January 2022 to June 2022.In 2022, approximately 1,375 applications were submitted for citizenship through investment programs in the three most sought-after Caribbean Islands—Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Lucia, and Grenada. While the 2019 pandemic initially dampened the upward trend, its reversal led to a subsequent revival. However, even in the face of the pandemic, revenues from the investment programs in 2019 exceeded those of 2018 for most countries. Notably, Turkey's citizenship-by-investment program generated US $1,343 million in 2019, compared to $106 million in 2018, and the country issued the highest number of passports in citizenship-by-investment programs—9,962. Similarly, revenues for other countries, such as Vanuatu ($105 million), Antigua and Barbuda ($99 million), and Grenada ($61 million), also surpassed their 2018 figures in 2019.Story continuesCitizenship By Investment Programs: Financial Allure for Investors In contemporary times, acquiring second citizenship offers numerous benefits. One key advantage is the enhanced sense of security that comes with being a national of two or more states. Additionally, the concept of visa-free global mobility has taken on new significance, proving to be particularly advantageous for investors. Beyond that, individuals can enjoy various tax benefits and increased opportunities for business advancement, as well as personal development through an improved quality of life, encompassing education and healthcare.It is, therefore, unsurprising that a growing number of millionaires are seizing this opportunity. According to Henley & Partner, the number of millionaires relocating to another country reached 128,000 by 2024, a substantial increase from 51,000 in 2013. Notably, 6,705 Americans renounced their citizenship in 2020 to move to other countries, with tax avoidance emerging as a primary motivation for some of these millionaires.Given this need for better finances, it is not surprising that companies like Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU) and Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:BR) have gained significance for entrepreneurs. Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU) is a multinational business software company that provides top-notch financial software services. Here’s what Baron Fintech Fund had to say about Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU) in their fourth quarter 2023 investor letter:“Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU) is the leading provider of accounting software for small businesses and tax preparation software for individuals and tax professionals. Shares increased after the company reported quarterly financial results that exceeded Street expectations, with 15% revenue growth and 49% EPS growth. Intuit is benefiting from the sale of higher-value services and is well positioned to capitalize on increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) given its vast data sets. The company recently launched Intuit Assist, a generative AI-powered digital assistant that improves productivity and unlocks valuable insights for customers. We continue to own the stock due to Intuit’s strong competitive position and numerous growth opportunities.”Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:BR) is a leading provider of investor communication and helps financial services firms by providing technology-driven solutions, including tax reporting services. Continuously upgrading their solutions, Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:BR) has recently introduced NYFIX Fill Matching platform, aimed at helping high asset managers with high volumes.13 Countries with the Best Citizenship by Investment Program in the WorldMethodologyIn order to compile our list for 13 Countries with the Best Citizenship by Investment Program in the World, we start off by scouring through various sources to extract citizenship by investment programs being offered around the world. We then used our article 10 Cheapest Residency or Citizenship by Investment Programs in Europe, as well as other sources, to find and rank these countries according to the minimum required investment and the time to citizenship. We then further check their political stability and absence of violence/terrorism percentile rank from The World Bank databank, 2022 and rank our selected countries according to those scores. We also use Human Development Index Ranking, 2022. To present a consolidated final ranking, we average the ranks for the four metrics on the weighted-average concept, with cost awarded the highest rank (0.5), followed by time (0.3) and then equal values for the other two metrics (0.1 each). We also talk about The Henley Citizenship Program Index, 2024 scores and rankings for these countries.By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that uses a consensus approach to identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The website tracks the movement of corporate insiders and hedge funds. Our top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 stock index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). So, if you are looking for the best stock picks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.Now that we have made a thorough analysis, we present to you 13 Countries with the Best Citizenship by Investment Program in the World. 13. AustriaMinimum Investment Rank: 13Time to Citizenship Rank: 6Political Stability Rank: 6Human Development Index Rank: 2Insider Monkey Weighted-Average Ranking: 9.4Austria's citizenship-by-investment program stands out as one of the initiatives requiring a significant investment in either joint ventures or direct business investments, with the goal of creating jobs and fostering new export sales. The selected businesses are expected to possess an international reputation and demonstrate growth potential. Under this citizenship program, the minimum required investment is €2 million, with the possibility to invest up to €10 million. The application process typically takes 24 to 36 months.While the investment required is indeed substantial, the benefits of obtaining Austrian citizenship are manifold. Austria, being a politically stable, safe, and developed nation, offers a high quality of life to its citizens. Austrian passport holders enjoy the privilege of visa-free travel to approximately 190 countries and the freedom to reside anywhere within the European Union and Switzerland. Notably, Austria holds the 2nd position on the Henley and Partner Citizenship Program Index for 2024, achieving top scores in attributes such as quality of life, visa-free travel, residence requirements, and relocation flexibility. It's essential to note, however, that except for certain specific cases, acquiring Austrian citizenship entails renouncing one's previous nationality.12. JordanMinimum Investment Rank: 12Time to Citizenship Rank: 4Political Stability Rank: 3Human Development Index Rank: 9Insider Monkey Weighted-Average Ranking: 8.4As a Middle-Eastern nation offering citizenship through investment, Jordan presents a unique opportunity for investors seeking to establish strong ties with the country and capitalize on lucrative economic prospects. Geographically situated between Asia, Africa, and Europe, Jordan provides a secure, politically stable, and business-friendly environment for potential investors. The minimum investment required is US $750,000, directed towards a productive economic sector project located outside of Amman, which should generate at least 10 jobs for Jordanians. Citizenship is typically granted within a span of 3 to 6 months, with a higher likelihood of approval within the shorter timeframe. The program extends to the individual investor and their immediate family members, encompassing children under 18, widowed or divorced daughters, as well as parents.The citizenship of this Middle-Eastern country opens doors to numerous opportunities, particularly as it grants citizenship in a region known for its stability and safety, coupled with visa-free travel to 50 destinations. According to the Henley and Partner's Citizenship Program Index for 2024, the country is ranked 6th overall. The program received a higher score for processing time, residence requirements, and physical visit requirements. In summary, Jordan emerges as one of the countries offering one of the best citizenship programs in the world.11. MaltaMinimum Investment Rank: 11Time to Citizenship Rank: 7Political Stability Rank: 8Human Development Index Rank: 1Insider Monkey Weighted-Average Ranking: 8.2Citizenship through investment in Europe has become increasingly common in contemporary times. While the aforementioned Austrian citizenship is also European, the high associated costs can sometimes be beyond the reach of certain individuals. Malta, however, offers an alternative with a slightly more accessible investment requirement. The process involves a minimum donation of €600,000 to the National Development and Social Fund, securing a minimum residence of 36 months through the Malta Citizenship for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program. Additionally, applicants have the flexibility to include family members, extending eligibility to include grandparents.Ranked among the top 25 countries on the Human Development Index and recognized for its political stability, Malta offers a high quality of life for its residents. With the privilege of visa-free travel to over 180 destinations, Malta stands at the pinnacle of Henley & Partner's Citizenship Index, boasting the highest scores in various aspects, including visa-free travel, compliance, and relocation flexibility.10. CambodiaMinimum Investment Rank: 9Time to Citizenship Rank: 3Political Stability Rank: 9Human Development Index Rank: 5Insider Monkey Weighted-Average Ranking: 7.1As one of the rapid citizenship programs, Cambodia offers investors the opportunity to acquire citizenship by making a minimum donation of approximately US $320,000, including fees, to the Royal Government. The country boasts beautiful scenery, rich heritage, and friendly people. Citizenship can be obtained in a relatively short period, typically within 3-4 months. While passport holders from Cambodia enjoy visa-free travel to 53 countries, the nation maintains a politically stable environment. Notably, Cambodia secures the 9th position in the Henley & Partner Citizenship Index, earning high scores for residence and physical visit requirements. It also makes to the 10th position in our list of countries with the best citizenship by investment program in the world.9. TurkeyMinimum Investment Rank: 10Time to Citizenship Rank: 4Political Stability Rank: 1Human Development Index Rank: 3Insider Monkey Weighted-Average Ranking: 6.6Turkey's citizenship-by-investment program stands as one of the most renowned programs globally. Since the reduction of their minimum investment requirements in 2018, over 13,000 investors and their families have seized this opportunity. The program offers a diverse range of options, with the minimum required investment set at $400,000 in real estate. This investment must be maintained for a minimum of three years after obtaining citizenship. The citizenship application process typically takes 3-6 months and extends to family members, including children below 18 years or children of any age with disabilities.This citizenship offers numerous benefits, including visa-free travel to over 110 countries and access to a financially sound, stable, and safe country with a high quality of life. The investors can also become eligible for E-2 Investor Visa for the US after being domiciled in Turkey for three years. Turkey holds the 5th position on the Henley & Partner Citizenship Index, boasting high scores in physical visit and residence requirement rules.8. Saint Kitts and NevisMinimum Investment Rank: 7Time to Citizenship Rank: 4Political Stability Rank: 9Human Development Index Rank: 6Insider Monkey Weighted-Average Ranking: 6.2As the world's first formal citizenship-through-investment program, Saint Kitts and Nevis has welcomed numerous investors since its establishment in 1984, offering them the opportunity to become residents of one of the most beautiful Caribbean Islands. The program remains a top choice for many investors, naturalizing over 1,000 investors and their families annually. Among its two investment options, the minimum-cost route involves a US $250,000 investment in a Sustainable Island State Contribution. Citizenship can be attained in approximately 3-6 months.Citizenship in Saint Kitts and Nevis offers a multitude of benefits, including visa-free travel to approximately 157 destinations, the inclusion of family members such as parents and dependents, and the option of citizenship by descent for future generations. The country holds the 4th position in the Henley & Partner Index, earning high scores in the physical visit and residence requirement categories.7. EgyptMinimum Investment Rank: 7Time to Citizenship Rank: 5Political Stability Rank: 1Human Development Index Rank: 8Insider Monkey Weighted-Average Ranking: 5.9Considered one of the world's newest citizenship-through-investment programs, Egypt offers investors five different options. The option with the minimum investment involves making a non-refundable contribution to the CIU account in the central bank of the country, totaling US $250,000. The process for obtaining citizenship typically takes 6-9 months.Ranking high on the political stability index, Egypt offers a rich cultural experience within the Middle East. Residents can enjoy visa-free travel to 51 destinations. The country secures the 6th place in the Henley & Partner Index, scoring notably high on various attributes, including travel destinations, compliance, process time, and physical visit, as well as residence requirements. It is thus, no surprise that Egypt is one of the countries with the best citizenship by investment program in the world.6. GrenadaMinimum Investment Rank: 5Time to Citizenship Rank: 4Political Stability Rank: 12Human Development Index Rank: 4Insider Monkey Weighted-Average Ranking: 5.3Grenada has emerged as a popular choice among investors seeking citizenship through investment programs. With a stable economy and political environment, the country offers lucrative options for investors. The minimum investment entails a donation of US $150,000 to the National Transformation Fund for a single applicant, with citizenship available in 3-6 months.This investment option in Grenada comes with various benefits. Investors have the opportunity for an E2 visa for the US, thanks to the country being a signatory to the United States E2 Treaty. Grenadian citizens can also enjoy visa-free travel to over 140 countries, transfer their citizenship to future generations, and include family members such as parents and grandparents. The program's appeal is reflected in Grenada's 3rd position on the Henley & Partner Index, where it scored high on various attributes.Click to continue reading and see our 5 Countries with the Best Citizenship by Investment Program in the World.Suggested Articles: 20 Best US Cities to Retire with $1 Million in Retirement Savings20 Countries with Highest Income Tax Rates in Europe12 Best AI ETFs To Invest In 2024Disclosure: None. 13 Countries with the Best Citizenship by Investment Program in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

13 Countries with the Best Citizenship by Investment Program in the World

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/13-countries-best-citizenship-investment-161811995.html

86114d76-d05b-3413-be0c-72cacecb3e33

INVH

As the dream of homeownership becomes more elusive for many in the current real estate landscape, savvy investors are turning their attention to alternative avenues. Let's take a look at two stocks and one crowdfunding platform that provide gateways to real estate exposure and wealth accumulation.Invitation HomesInvitation Homes (NYSE:INVH) owns and manages a portfolio of approximately 80,000 single-family homes across the Western U.S., Sunbelt, and Florida. In all 16 of its core markets, it's more affordable to lease a home than it is to buy, helping it achieve a 97.1% same-store average occupancy in the fourth quarter of 2023.Invitation Homes currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.28 per share, which equates to $1.12 per share annually and gives it a yield of about 3.4% today. The company has also raised its annual dividend payment every year since its initial public offering in 2017, making it both a high-yield and dividend-growth stock.Don't Miss:Investing in real estate just got a whole lot simpler. This Dara Khosrowshahi-backed startup will allow you to become a landlord in just 10 minutes, and you only need $100.Commercial real estate has historically outperformed the stock market, but few investors have the capital or resources needed to invest in this asset class. A platform backed by industry giant Marcus & Millichap is changing that, allowing individuals to invest in commercial real estate with as little as $5,000.American Homes 4 RentAmerican Homes 4 Rent (NYSE:AMH) owns and manages a portfolio of over 58,000 single-family homes. Its portfolio spans 21 states in the Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, and Mountain Regions, encompassing markets like Orlando, Tampa, Dallas, Houston, Nashville, Denver, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, and Seattle.American Homes 4 Rent currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.26 per share, equating to an annualized rate of $1.04 per share and giving its stock a yield of about _% today. The company has also raised its annual dividend payment for three consecutive years, and its 18% hike last week has it on track for 2024 to mark the fourth consecutive year with an increase.Story continuesArrived HomesArrived Homes also offers a way for investors to gain exposure to residential real estate. It's an alternative investment platform, backed by Jeff Bezos and Dara Khosrowshahi, that allows individuals to easily invest in real estate by purchasing shares of rental properties. Investors on the platform earn passive income through the rental revenue while waiting for the properties they invest in to appreciate in value over time.Read Next:Commercial real estate has historically outperformed the stock market, but few investors have the capital or resources needed to invest in this asset class. A platform backed by industry giant Marcus & Millichap is changing that, allowing individuals to invest in commercial real estate with as little as $5,000. Collecting passive income from real estate just got a whole lot simpler. A new real estate fund backed by Dara Khosrowshahi gives you instant access to a diversified portfolio of rental properties, and you only need $100 to get started.Image Credit: Shutterstock"ACTIVE INVESTORS' SECRET WEAPON" Supercharge Your Stock Market Game with the #1 "news & everything else" trading tool: Benzinga Pro - Click here to start Your 14-Day Trial Now!Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga?AMERICAN HOMES 4 RENT (AMH): Free Stock Analysis ReportThis article Leasing the American Dream: These Companies Are Cashing In originally appeared on Benzinga.com© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Benzinga

Leasing the American Dream: These Companies Are Cashing In

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/leasing-american-dream-companies-cashing-161958834.html

36dcd0d9-8e93-3dcd-bdcd-bf4e0412903d

INVH

DALLAS, February 26, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Invitation Homes Inc. (NYSE: INVH) ("Invitation Homes" or the "Company") today announced that the Company's Chief Executive Officer Dallas Tanner will participate in a roundtable discussion at Citi's 2024 Global Property CEO Conference on Monday, March 4, at 8:50 a.m. Eastern Time. A live audio webcast of the presentation will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.invh.com. A replay of the webcast will be available through April 4, 2024.About Invitation HomesInvitation Homes, an S&P 500 company, is the nation's premier single-family home leasing and management company, meeting changing lifestyle demands by providing access to high-quality, updated homes with valued features such as close proximity to jobs and access to good schools. The company's mission, "Together with you, we make a house a home," reflects its commitment to providing homes where individuals and families can thrive and high-touch service that continuously enhances residents' living experiences.View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240226454029/en/ContactsInvestor Relations Contact: Scott McLaughlinPhone: 844.456.INVH (4684)Email: [email protected] Relations Contact: Kristi DesJarlaisPhone: 972.421.3587Email: [email protected]

Business Wire

Invitation Homes to Participate in Citi's 2024 Global Property CEO Conference

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/invitation-homes-participate-citis-2024-213000163.html

562bd754-202e-3be3-a0d4-4f4b0cf9b415

INVH

In this article, we will be taking a look at the 14 best real estate and realty stocks to buy according to analysts. To skip our detailed analysis of the real estate sector, you can go directly to see the 5 Best Real Estate and Realty Stocks To Buy According to Analysts.Housing Versus Retail: Where to Invest in Real Estate?The real estate sector has been battling with elevated mortgage rates this year, resulting in the US housing market suffering from a lack of demand among the population. However, some may expect the struggles of the real estate sector to abate as the year progresses, especially as many financial professionals begin to analyze the state of US real estate markets. Several spaces within the real estate sector are under-invested in, leaving the arena free and open for investors looking to make a real estate play.On February 29, Carly Trip, the Head of Investments at Nuveen Real Estate, joined CNBC's "Closing Bell Overtime" to discuss the state of the US real estate markets. Here's what she had to say:"On the residential market, it's kind of like no new news, however what's interesting is that the consumer is really starting to explain their tolerance for mortgage rates. In December we saw really strong numbers, mortgage rates had come in about 50 basis points, bouncing around six and a half. As they have suddenly come up since then and hover above 7%, consumers do not like that. And so we're seeing the results of that in pending home sales. So we expect that that is not gonna improve, inventory will remain low until rates come around 6%, in which case your cost to own versus cost to rent margin really starts to shrink."Despite the above observations, Tripp noted that other areas in the real estate markets are doing better. Here's what she said:"Retail's doing amazingly well. So retail has been the underdog of the last decade. And what we're seeing in our centres is increased activity, a lot of demand, increased sales. The consumer is obviously very resilient and strong. That is accomodating to retail spending, 80% of retail sales do involve a physical store which is a positive for our centres. And not only that, there's no new supply added to retail. Over the last five years, about a 130 million square feet of retail has been converted to other uses, so it's really been under-invested in. So the outlook for retail is very, very strong."Story continuesIndustrial Real Estate Performs WellSimilarly, for the industrial real estate side, Tripp had positive insights to share. Here are some of the comments she made:"Industrial's been incredible. It has performed exactly as real estate should perform. Income has outpaced inflation, right, real estate is expected to be an inflation hedge, that's why it's such a great diversifier to a portfolio. And so we continue to see incredibly strong demand for industrial. Supply has slowed, that was the concern pre-pandemic. However, due to lack of construction spending, lack of financing just generally speaking, bottlenecks in the construction system, we expect that demand is just gonna continue to flow. E-commerce spending is not going anywhere.Considering these highlights, while the residential side of real estate seems to be still struggling in 2024, that does not mean all real estate should be avoided this year. Several other areas within the sector remain ripe for investment. As such, we have compiled a list of some of the best real estate stocks to invest in, including names such as KE Holdings Inc (NYSE:BEKE), Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE:CCI), and Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O). These include some of the best real estate stocks with dividends and some of the best real estate stocks to buy for the long term.14 Best Real Estate and Realty Stocks To Buy according to AnalystsAerial view of a large urban cityscape showcasing a major real estate development.Our Methodology We have selected the stocks for our list of the best real estate and realty stocks to buy using estimated upside potential statistics for each stock from TipRanks. The stocks are ranked based on their upside potential, from the lowest to the highest figure. Hedge funds’ top 10 consensus stock picks outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). That’s why we pay very close attention to this often-ignored indicator.Best Real Estate and Realty Stocks To Buy According to Analysts14. Extra Space Storage, Inc. (NYSE:EXR)Average Analyst Price Target: $149.78Upside Potential: 4.48%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 26Extra Space Storage, Inc. (NYSE:EXR) is a self-storage real estate investment trust (REIT) company based in Salt Lake City, Utah. The company owns and operates 3,651 self-storage stores in 42 states and Washington, D.C.As of this January, Goldman Sachs analyst Caitlin Burrows maintains a Buy rating and a $187 price target on Extra Space Storage, Inc. (NYSE:EXR).There were 26 hedge funds long Extra Space Storage, Inc. (NYSE:EXR) in the fourth quarter, with a total stake value of $330.8 million.Diamond Hill Capital mentioned Extra Space Storage, Inc. (NYSE:EXR) in its third-quarter 2023 investor letter:“Following a dip in share price after Q2 earnings and rising interest rates, we had an opportunity to make an initial investment in Extra Space Storage Inc. (NYSE:EXR). Despite facing near-term challenges like normalizing street rents and occupancy rates after two years of robust demand, as well as the recent merger with Life Storage, we believe EXR is well positioned for long-term growth of its intrinsic value. It boasts an impressive franchise and perhaps the industry’s best operating platform. The Life Storage acquisition broadens its real estate portfolio and presents more opportunities for growth. While the company faces some near-term headwinds, the recent sell-off created an opportunity for us to acquire shares in this high-quality franchise at a very reasonable price.”Like KE Holdings Inc (NYSE:BEKE), Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE:CCI), and Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O), Extra Space Storage, Inc. (NYSE:EXR) is among the best real estate and realty stocks to buy now.13. Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE:CCI)Average Analyst Price Target: $118.54Upside Potential: 6.74%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 45This January, Ari Klein at BMO Capital placed a Market Perform rating and a $110 price target on Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE:CCI).Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE:CCI) is a telecom tower REIT based in Houston, Texas. The company owns, operates, and leases over 40,000 cell towers and about 90,000 route miles of fiber supporting small cells and fiber solutions across US markets and is among the best real estate stocks to buy.We saw 45 hedge funds long Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE:CCI) in the fourth quarter, with a total stake value of $1.6 billion.Fisher Asset Management was the largest shareholder in Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE:CCI) at the end of the fourth quarter, holding 4.6 million shares in the company.12. Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE:WY)Average Analyst Price Target: $37.50Upside Potential: 7.42%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 30A total of 30 hedge funds were long Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE:WY) in the fourth quarter, with a total stake value of $255.9 million.Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE:WY) is a timber REIT based in Seatlle, Washington. The company is among the world's largest private owners of timberlands, owning and operating about 11 million acres of timberlands in the US.On January 29, RBC Capital reiterated an Outperform rating and a $39 price target on Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE:WY).11. Invitation Homes Inc. (NYSE:INVH)Average Analyst Price Target: $37.14Upside Potential: 7.53%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 25D1 Capital Partners was the most prominent shareholder in Invitation Homes Inc. (NYSE:INVH) at the end of the fourth quarter, holding 7.5 million shares in the company.Invitation Homes Inc. (NYSE:INVH) is a single-family residential REIT based in Dallas, Texas. The company leases single-family homes to meet changing lifestyle demands and provide access to high-quality, updated homes in close proximity to good schools and workplaces.RBC Capital reiterated an Outperform rating and a $36 price target on February 15 on Invitation Homes Inc. (NYSE:INVH).Our hedge fund data for the fourth quarter shows 25 hedge funds long Invitation Homes Inc. (NYSE:INVH), with a total stake value of $497.8 million.Here's what Baron Funds said about Invitation Homes Inc. (NYSE:INVH) in its third-quarter 2023 investor letter:“Following strong second quarter results, we modestly increased our investments in single-family rental REITs Invitation Homes, Inc. (NYSE:INVH). Demand conditions for rental homes are attractive due to the sharp decline in home affordability; the propensity to rent in order to avoid mortgage down payments, avoid higher monthly mortgage costs, and maintain flexibility; and the stronger demand for home rentals in suburbs rather than apartment rentals in cities. Rising construction costs are limiting the supply of single-family rental homes in the U.S. housing market. This limited inventory combined with strong demand is leading to robust rent growth.Invitation Homes have an opportunity to partially offset the impact of inflation given that their in-place annual leases are significantly below market rents. Valuations are compelling at mid-5% capitalization rates, and we believe the shares are currently valued at a discount to our assessment of net asset value. We remain mindful that expense headwinds and slower top-line growth could weigh on growth later in 2023 and 2024. We will continue to closely monitor business developments and will adjust our exposures accordingly.”10. Prologis, Inc. (NYSE:PLD)Average Analyst Price Target: $144.94 Upside Potential: 7.68%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 46Prologis, Inc. (NYSE:PLD) is an industrial REIT based in San Francisco, California. The company is a global leader in logistics real estate with a focus on high-barrier, high-growth markets.In total, 46 hedge funds were long Prologis, Inc. (NYSE:PLD) in the fourth quarter, with a total stake value of $678.3 million.As of February 16, RBC Capital maintains an Outperform rating and a $145 price target on Prologis, Inc. (NYSE:PLD).9. AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE:AVB)Average Analyst Price Target: $194.70Upside Potential: 9.3%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 29AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE:AVB) had 29 hedge funds long its stock in the fourth quarter, with a total stake value of $234.7 million.Morgan Stanley upgraded AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE:AVB) from Equal Weight to Overweight on February 26, alongside placing a $191.5 piece target on the stock.AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE:AVB) is a multi-family residential REIT based in Arlington, Virginia. The company owns or holds a direct or indirect ownership interest in 299 apartment communities containing 90,669 apartment homes in 12 states and the District of Columbia.At the end of the fourth quarter, AEW Capital Management was the largest shareholder in AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE:AVB), holding 769,788 shares in the company.Baron Funds mentioned AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE:AVB) in its third-quarter 2023 investor letter:“In the third quarter, we maintained our exposure to apartment REIT AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE:AVB). We believe public valuations remain discounted relative to the private market. Tenant demand remains healthy and rent growth has modestly improved since the first quarter of 2023. Rental apartments continue to benefit from the current homeownership affordability challenges. Multi-family REITs provide partial inflation protection to offset rising costs due to leases that can be reset at higher rents, in some cases, annually. We continue to closely monitor new supply deliveries and job losses in key geographic markets.”8. Mid America Apartment Communities Inc (NYSE:MAA)Average Analyst Price Target: $140.89Upside Potential: 10.39%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 23Mid America Apartment Communities Inc (NYSE:MAA) is another multi-family residential REIT on our list of the best real estate stocks. It is based in Germantown, Tennessee, and delivers full-cycle and superior investment performance for shareholders through the ownership, management, acquisition, and development of quality apartment communities.Goldman Sachs reinstated a Buy rating and a $149 price target on Mid America Apartment Communities Inc (NYSE:MAA) on February 22.Mid America Apartment Communities Inc (NYSE:MAA) was found in the 13F holdings of 23 hedge funds in the fourth quarter, with a total stake value of $524.3 million.This is what Diamond Hill Capital said about Mid America Apartment Communities Inc (NYSE:MAA) in its third-quarter 2023 investor letter:“Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. (NYSE:MAA) is a multifamily-focused REIT which owns, operates, acquires and selectively develops apartment communities, primarily in the Southeast and Southwest US. We have owned MAA in the past and chose to reinitiate a position as concerns about slowing internal growth and headwinds from new supply have pushed the share price down. MAA is a strong franchise with a respected management team, an excellent balance sheet and a well-located portfolio in the Sun Belt. We anticipate the supply concerns will prove a near-term headwind, while its competitive advantages should make it an attractive long-term investment.”7. Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE:ARE)Average Analyst Price Target: $142Upside Potential: 14.27%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 31Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE:ARE) was spotted in the portfolios of 31 hedge funds in the fourth quarter, with a total stake value of $214.2 million.On January 31, Wedbush reiterated an Outperform rating and a $140 price target on Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE:ARE).Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE:ARE) is an office REIT based in Pasadena, California. It owns, operates, and develops collaborate life science, agtech, and advanced technology mega campuses.Baron Funds said the following about Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE:ARE) in its third-quarter 2023 investor letter:“Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (ARE) is the life science industry leader and sole publicly traded life science pure-play REIT. At its current discounted valuation, we believe concerns about competitive supply and distress for some of the company’s biotechnology and health care tenants are overblown and sufficiently discounted in the company’s valuation. We believe the management team has assembled a desirable real estate portfolio, enjoys a leading market share position in its geographic markets, and has solid expectations for long-term demand-driven growth.”6. American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT)Average Analyst Price Target: $231.93Upside Potential: 14.95%Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 56American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT) is another telecom tower REIT on our list of the best real estate stocks to buy. It is based in Boston, Massachusetts, and is an independent owner, operator, and developer of multitenant communications real estate.An Overweight rating and a $230 price target were maintained on American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT) on February 28 by JPMorgan analysts.We saw 56 hedge funds long American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT) in the fourth quarter, with a total stake value of $3.2 billion.Baron Funds mentioned American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT) in its fourth-quarter 2023 investor letter:“Early in 2023, we sold the majority of our position in American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT), a global operator of over 200,000 wireless towers, and even further reduced our modest position in the third quarter of 2023. We had concluded in late 2022 and early 2023 that growth expectations were too high given forthcoming headwinds from significantly higher financing costs (20%-plus exposure to floating rate debt), upcoming debt maturities, continued payment shortfalls from a key tenant in India, foreign exchange headwinds, and a reduction in mobile carrier capital expenditures.Following a sharp decline in American Tower’s shares in the first nine months of 2023, we began rebuilding our position because we believed that the company’s shares had become more attractively valued, growth headwinds were better understood, and the potential monetization event of its India business would ultimately be value accretive to its business. Further, we believe that 2023 will mark the trough in earnings growth for American Tower and growth should reaccelerate in the next few years.”Like KE Holdings Inc (NYSE:BEKE), Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE:CCI), and Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O), American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT) is among the best real estate stocks to buy now. Click to continue reading and see 5 Best Real Estate and Realty Stocks To Buy According to Analysts. Suggested articles:25 Fastest Growing Real Estate Markets in the US13 Most Profitable Real Estate Stocks Now12 Best Real Estate and Realty Stocks to BuyDisclosure: None. 14 Best Real Estate and Realty Stocks To Buy According to Analysts is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Insider Monkey

14 Best Real Estate and Realty Stocks To Buy According to Analysts

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/14-best-real-estate-realty-131053697.html

2e1df458-4301-3a94-ba21-81f229d13e6f

IP

The Zacks Paper and Related Products industry is set to benefit from increased packaging needs, driven by rising e-commerce activities. Sustained demand from consumer-oriented sectors, such as food, beverages, and healthcare, lends further support. The industry's growth is propelled by the escalating consumer inclination toward paper as an environmentally friendly packaging choice amid rising environmental awareness.Key players, such as Suzano SUZ, International Paper IP, Klabin KLBAY and Sappi SPPJY, are well-positioned to capitalize on these trends as they continue to position themselves favorably in the evolving market landscape.About the IndustryThe Zacks Paper and Related Products industry comprises companies that manufacture and sell paper and paper products. The industry is highly diversified in terms of products, ranging from graphic paper and packaging paper to absorbent hygiene products. Graphic papers, which include printing and writing papers, and newsprint, are utilized for communication purposes. The industry provides packaging solutions for liquid, food, pharmaceutical, beauty, household, commercial and industrial products. It also produces fluff and specialty pulps utilized in absorbent hygiene products, tissues and paper products. The industry caters to a wide array of industries, including food and beverage, farming, home and personal care, health, retail, e-commerce, and transport. Industry players meet customers’ shipping, storage and display requirements with sustainable solutions.Major Trends Shaping the Future of the Paper and Related Products IndustryE-commerce & Consumer Products to Support Packaging Demand: The industry’s significant exposure to consumer-focused markets, such as food, beverages and healthcare, ensures steady earnings growth. With the rise of e-commerce, packaging has gained the utmost importance, as it helps maintain the integrity of the product and withstand the complexities of delivery. According to Statista, global e-commerce sales were $5.8 trillion in 2023, and this figure is expected to reach $8 trillion by 2027, with a CAGR of 8.4%. This presents a major growth opportunity for the Paper and Related Products industry. In 2022, e-commerce accounted for nearly 19% of retail sales worldwide and this share is expected to increase to 25% by 2027. The United States is expected to lead the retail e-commerce development, with a CAGR forecast of 11.82% over 2024-2028. The current valuation of the U.S e-commerce market is $843 billion U.S. dollars and it is anticipated to surpass the $1-trillion mark in 2026. India and Mexico are expected to follow suit, seeing a CAGR of 11.79% and 11.71%, respectively.Story continuesSustainability Acts as the Key: Increasing demand for sustainable packaging options and eco-friendly packaging solutions will support the paper market in the days ahead. The paper industry has already begun incorporating recycled content into production methods. By maximizing recycling, the industry will be able to implement environmentally and economically sustainable production methods. Investment in breakthrough technologies will propel the demand for high-quality paper products.Pricing Actions, Improving Efficiency to Offset Cost Inflation: The industry is witnessing rising costs of transportation, chemical and fuel, and supply-chain headwinds. Therefore, industry players are increasingly focusing on pricing actions and cost reduction, and resorting to automation in manufacturing to boost productivity and efficiency. Digitization Hurts Graphic Paper Demand: The transition to digital media has been eroding the graphic-paper market for some time. Paperless communication, increased use of email, less print advertising, more electronic billing and fewer catalogs have collectively contributed to the decline in demand for graphic paper. Consequently, the companies have been converting their machines to produce packaging and specialty papers.Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Bright ProspectsThe Zacks Paper and Related Products industry is a 12-stock group within the broader Basic Materials sector. The industry currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #30, which places it in the top 12% of the 252 Zacks industries.The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates bullish prospects in the near term. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperforms the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.Before we present a few Paper and Related Products stocks that investors can keep an eye on, it is worth looking at the industry’s stock-market performance and its valuation picture.Industry Versus S&P 500 & SectorThe Paper and Related Products industry has outperformed the sector but lagged the S&P 500 over the past year. The stocks in this industry have gained 14.9%, while the Basic Materials sector has lost 1.4%. The S&P 500 has grown 25.4% in the said time frame.One-Year Price PerformanceIndustry's Current ValuationOn the basis of the trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA ratio, a commonly-used multiple for valuing Paper and Related Products companies, we see that the industry is currently trading at 7.11X compared with the S&P 500’s 13.80X and the Basic Material sector’s trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA of 11.01X. This is shown in the charts below.Enterprise Value/EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) Ratio (TTM)Enterprise Value/EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) Ratio (TTM)Over the last five years, the industry traded as high as 11.25X and as low as 3.98X, the median being 6.82X.4 Paper and Related Products Stocks to WatchSuzano: With the acquisition of Kimberly-Clark’s tissue assets in Brazil in 2023, the company has become the leader in the domestic toilet tissue market. The deal added the Neve brand to SUZ’s portfolio and a plant with an annual capacity of 130,000 tons in Mogi das Cruzes (São Paulo), among other assets. The company continues to focus on digital transformation initiatives and invest in its portfolio of innovative products. Suzano’s $2.8-billion Cerrado Project, which is likely to commence production in June 2024, is expected to boost its current pulp production capacity by 20%. It will be the world’s largest plant with a single eucalyptus pulp production line. SUZ recently announced a slew of projects that will boost its production capacity and enhance its operational efficiency. These include a R$520-million investment to replace a biomass boiler and a R$650-million planned spending for the construction of a tissue paper mill in Espírito Santo. Suzano also announced investments of R$490 million to produce fluff pulp from eucalyptus wood (Eucafluff), with a nominal annual production capacity of 340 tons.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 for the Salvador, Brazil-based integrated pulp and paper producer has moved up 4% in the past 60 days. Suzano currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. Price & Consensus: SUZKlabin: In the fourth quarter of 2023, the company achieved a total sales volume of 961,000 tons, driven by a 10% increase in the pulp segment and an 11% rise in paperboard sales. Higher paperboard sales volume reflects the ramp-up of Paper Machine 28. In September 2023, KLBAY inaugurated the Puma II project with R$12.9 billion invested in the installation of two paper machines — MP27 and MP28 — with a total annual production capacity of 910,000 tons of paper. The MP28 machine also marked Klabin’s debut in the white paperboard market, reinforcing the expansion of its product portfolio. Klabin recently announced the acquisition of Arauco’s forest operation, which concludes forest expansion for the Puma II Project. With this deal, the company will be able to achieve its 75% self-sufficiency target in wood in Paraná. The company’s efforts to improve efficiency in its operations will also aid results. KLBAY shares have gained 6% in the past six months.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the São Paulo, Brazil-based company’s fiscal 2024 earnings has moved up 11.8% over the past 60 days. Klabin currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).Price & Consensus: KLBAYSappi: The demand for dissolving pulp has been positive, supported by sustained high operating rates for viscose staple fiber and a recovery in pricing for alternative textile fibers, such as cotton. The company is progressing well in its Thrive25 strategic program. This entails focusing on growing its dissolving pulp capacity, expanding packaging and specialty papers in all regions, and reducing exposure to the graphic paper markets. Its ongoing restructuring actions are expected to yield significant cost savings. SPPJY is also focusing on maintaining financial health and progressing toward attaining a net debt target of $1 billion. It is striving to drive operational excellence by improving its cost position and production efficiencies.Johannesburg, South Africa-based Sappi has an estimated long-term earnings growth of 13.6%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2024 earnings has moved up 29.6% over the past 60 days. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.Price: SPPJYInternational Paper: The company is adding capacity to its existing plants and investing in plants that will help it capitalize on the demand for corrugated and containerboard packaging, going forward. This will aid the Industrial Paper segment. In the Global cellulose fibers segment, demand for fluff is expected to pick up, considering the essential role that absorbent personal care products play in meeting consumer needs. The company realized $260 million of year-over-year incremental earnings improvement in 2023, outperforming the target of $125-$150 million for the year. This was achieved by streamlining the organization, cutting overhead spending, leveraging advanced technology and data analytics to improve efficiencies and lowering costs across its large system of mills and box plants. The same target range is projected for 2024 as well. The company’s efforts to reduce debt levels appear encouraging. Mergers and acquisitions are the key strategies for IP to strengthen its packaging business.This Memphis, TN-based entity has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 19.4%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for IP’s 2024 earnings has been unchanged over the past 60 days. International Paper currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).Price & Consensus: IPWant the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportSuzano S.A. Sponsored ADR (SUZ) : Free Stock Analysis ReportInternational Paper Company (IP) : Free Stock Analysis ReportKlabin SA (KLBAY) : Free Stock Analysis ReportSappi Ltd. (SPPJY) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

4 Paper and Related Products Stocks to Watch in the Thriving Industry

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/4-paper-related-products-stocks-164300913.html

ca5e5ea6-04b7-39bd-8179-7eef88420cf0

IP

For Immediate ReleaseChicago, IL – February 21, 2024 – Today, Zacks Equity Research discusses Suzano SUZ, International Paper IP, Klabin KLBAY and Sappi SPPJY.Industry: Paper ProductsLink: https://www.zacks.com/commentary/2228647/4-paper-and-related-products-stocks-to-watch-in-the-thriving-industryThe Zacks Paper and Related Products industry is set to benefit from increased packaging needs, driven by rising e-commerce activities. Sustained demand from consumer-oriented sectors, such as food, beverages, and healthcare, lends further support. The industry's growth is propelled by the escalating consumer inclination toward paper as an environmentally friendly packaging choice amid rising environmental awareness.Key players, such as Suzano, International Paper, Klabin and Sappi, are well-positioned to capitalize on these trends as they continue to position themselves favorably in the evolving market landscape.About the IndustryThe Zacks Paper and Related Products industry comprises companies that manufacture and sell paper and paper products. The industry is highly diversified in terms of products, ranging from graphic paper and packaging paper to absorbent hygiene products. Graphic papers, which include printing and writing papers, and newsprint, are utilized for communication purposes.The industry provides packaging solutions for liquid, food, pharmaceutical, beauty, household, commercial and industrial products. It also produces fluff and specialty pulps utilized in absorbent hygiene products, tissues and paper products. The industry caters to a wide array of industries, including food and beverage, farming, home and personal care, health, retail, e-commerce, and transport. Industry players meet customers’ shipping, storage and display requirements with sustainable solutions.Major Trends Shaping the Future of the Paper and Related Products IndustryE-commerce & Consumer Products to Support Packaging Demand: The industry’s significant exposure to consumer-focused markets, such as food, beverages and healthcare, ensures steady earnings growth. With the rise of e-commerce, packaging has gained the utmost importance, as it helps maintain the integrity of the product and withstand the complexities of delivery.Story continuesAccording to Statista, global e-commerce sales were $5.8 trillion in 2023, and this figure is expected to reach $8 trillion by 2027, with a CAGR of 8.4%. This presents a major growth opportunity for the Paper and Related Products industry. In 2022, e-commerce accounted for nearly 19% of retail sales worldwide and this share is expected to increase to 25% by 2027.The United States is expected to lead the retail e-commerce development, with a CAGR forecast of 11.82% over 2024-2028. The current valuation of the U.S e-commerce market is $843 billion U.S. dollars and it is anticipated to surpass the $1-trillion mark in 2026. India and Mexico are expected to follow suit, seeing a CAGR of 11.79% and 11.71%, respectively.Sustainability Acts as the Key: Increasing demand for sustainable packaging options and eco-friendly packaging solutions will support the paper market in the days ahead. The paper industry has already begun incorporating recycled content into production methods. By maximizing recycling, the industry will be able to implement environmentally and economically sustainable production methods. Investment in breakthrough technologies will propel the demand for high-quality paper products.Pricing Actions, Improving Efficiency to Offset Cost Inflation: The industry is witnessing rising costs of transportation, chemical and fuel, and supply-chain headwinds. Therefore, industry players are increasingly focusing on pricing actions and cost reduction, and resorting to automation in manufacturing to boost productivity and efficiency.Digitization Hurts Graphic Paper Demand: The transition to digital media has been eroding the graphic-paper market for some time. Paperless communication, increased use of email, less print advertising, more electronic billing and fewer catalogs have collectively contributed to the decline in demand for graphic paper. Consequently, the companies have been converting their machines to produce packaging and specialty papers.Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Bright ProspectsThe Zacks Paper and Related Products industry is a 12-stock group within the broader Basic Materials sector. The industry currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #30, which places it in the top 12% of the 252 Zacks industries.The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates bullish prospects in the near term. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperforms the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.Before we present a few Paper and Related Products stocks that investors can keep an eye on, it is worth looking at the industry’s stock-market performance and its valuation picture.Industry Versus S&P 500 & SectorThe Paper and Related Products industry has outperformed the sector but lagged the S&P 500 over the past year. The stocks in this industry have gained 14.9%, while the Basic Materials sector has lost 1.4%. The S&P 500 has grown 25.4% in the said time frame.Industry's Current ValuationOn the basis of the trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA ratio, a commonly-used multiple for valuing Paper and Related Products companies, we see that the industry is currently trading at 7.11X compared with the S&P 500’s 13.80X and the Basic Material sector’s trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA of 11.01X.Over the last five years, the industry traded as high as 11.25X and as low as 3.98X, the median being 6.82X.4 Paper and Related Products Stocks to WatchSuzano: With the acquisition of Kimberly-Clark’s tissue assets in Brazil in 2023, the company has become the leader in the domestic toilet tissue market. The deal added the Neve brand to SUZ’s portfolio and a plant with an annual capacity of 130,000 tons in Mogi das Cruzes (São Paulo), among other assets. The company continues to focus on digital transformation initiatives and invest in its portfolio of innovative products.Suzano’s $2.8-billion Cerrado Project, which is likely to commence production in June 2024, is expected to boost its current pulp production capacity by 20%. It will be the world’s largest plant with a single eucalyptus pulp production line.SUZ recently announced a slew of projects that will boost its production capacity and enhance its operational efficiency. These include a R$520-million investment to replace a biomass boiler and a R$650-million planned spending for the construction of a tissue paper mill in Espírito Santo. Suzano also announced investments of R$490 million to produce fluff pulp from eucalyptus wood (Eucafluff), with a nominal annual production capacity of 340 tons.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 for the Salvador, Brazil-based integrated pulp and paper producer has moved up 4% in the past 60 days. Suzano currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.Klabin: In the fourth quarter of 2023, the company achieved a total sales volume of 961,000 tons, driven by a 10% increase in the pulp segment and an 11% rise in paperboard sales. Higher paperboard sales volume reflects the ramp-up of Paper Machine 28. In September 2023, KLBAY inaugurated the Puma II project with R$12.9 billion invested in the installation of two paper machines — MP27 and MP28 — with a total annual production capacity of 910,000 tons of paper.The MP28 machine also marked Klabin’s debut in the white paperboard market, reinforcing the expansion of its product portfolio. Klabin recently announced the acquisition of Arauco’s forest operation, which concludes forest expansion for the Puma II Project. With this deal, the company will be able to achieve its 75% self-sufficiency target in wood in Paraná. The company’s efforts to improve efficiency in its operations will also aid results. KLBAY shares have gained 6% in the past six months.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the São Paulo, Brazil-based company’s fiscal 2024 earnings has moved up 11.8% over the past 60 days. Klabin currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).Sappi: The demand for dissolving pulp has been positive, supported by sustained high operating rates for viscose staple fiber and a recovery in pricing for alternative textile fibers, such as cotton. The company is progressing well in its Thrive25 strategic program. This entails focusing on growing its dissolving pulp capacity, expanding packaging and specialty papers in all regions, and reducing exposure to the graphic paper markets.Its ongoing restructuring actions are expected to yield significant cost savings. SPPJY is also focusing on maintaining financial health and progressing toward attaining a net debt target of $1 billion. It is striving to drive operational excellence by improving its cost position and production efficiencies.Johannesburg, South Africa-based Sappi has an estimated long-term earnings growth of 13.6%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2024 earnings has moved up 29.6% over the past 60 days. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.International Paper: The company is adding capacity to its existing plants and investing in plants that will help it capitalize on the demand for corrugated and containerboard packaging, going forward. This will aid the Industrial Paper segment. In the Global cellulose fibers segment, demand for fluff is expected to pick up, considering the essential role that absorbent personal care products play in meeting consumer needs.The company realized $260 million of year-over-year incremental earnings improvement in 2023, outperforming the target of $125-$150 million for the year. This was achieved by streamlining the organization, cutting overhead spending, leveraging advanced technology and data analytics to improve efficiencies and lowering costs across its large system of mills and box plants.The same target range is projected for 2024 as well. The company’s efforts to reduce debt levels appear encouraging. Mergers and acquisitions are the key strategies for IP to strengthen its packaging business.This Memphis, TN-based entity has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 19.4%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for IP’s 2024 earnings has been unchanged over the past 60 days. International Paper currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).Why Haven’t You Looked at Zacks' Top Stocks?Since 2000, our top stock-picking strategies have blown away the S&P's +7.0 average gain per year. Amazingly, they soared with average gains of +44.9%, +48.4% and +55.2% per year.Today you can access their live picks without cost or obligation.See Stocks Free >>Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZacksInvestmentResearch/ Zacks Investment Research is under common control with affiliated entities (including a broker-dealer and an investment adviser), which may engage in transactions involving the foregoing securities for the clients of such affiliates.Media ContactZacks Investment Research800-767-3771 ext. [email protected]://www.zacks.comPast performance is no guarantee of future results. Inherent in any investment is the potential for loss. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold a security. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. It should not be assumed that any investments in securities, companies, sectors or markets identified and described were or will be profitable. All information is current as of the date of herein and is subject to change without notice. Any views or opinions expressed may not reflect those of the firm as a whole. Zacks Investment Research does not engage in investment banking, market making or asset management activities of any securities. These returns are from hypothetical portfolios consisting of stocks with Zacks Rank = 1 that were rebalanced monthly with zero transaction costs. These are not the returns of actual portfolios of stocks. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index. Visit https://www.zacks.com/performance for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release.Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free reportInternational Paper Company (IP) : Free Stock Analysis ReportKlabin SA (KLBAY) : Free Stock Analysis ReportSappi Ltd. (SPPJY) : Free Stock Analysis ReportSuzano S.A. Sponsored ADR (SUZ) : Free Stock Analysis ReportTo read this article on Zacks.com click here.Zacks Investment Research

Zacks

Zacks Industry Outlook Highlights Suzano, International Paper, Klabin and Sappi

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/zacks-industry-outlook-highlights-suzano-092000984.html

ebff15c8-ab69-3ad3-a7c5-cd93e92f206d

IP

QUERETARO / ACCESSWIRE / March 6, 2024 / International Paper is committed to the communities where our employees live and work. Earlier this year, with the coordination of American Chamber of Commerce AMCHAM Mexico, International Paper's Ixtac and Toluca box plants delivered 22,000 boxes to the Secretary of the Navy (SEMAR) for transportation and distribution of relief supplies to the hurricane-affected population of Otis in Acapulco; and 14,400 boxes were donated to the Network of Food Banks in Mexico (BAMX).BAMX has more than 50 food banks across the country and is part of the Global Food Banking Network (GFN). This delivery was part of International Paper Mexico's ongoing commitment to its partnership with the Network of Food Banks and internationally with GFN.Gabriella Rosato, National Manager of Strategic Alliances of BAMX, commented that this donation will benefit approximately 58,000 people in Mexico with safe and ready-to-eat food. The boxes will serve as packaging that supports local food bank deliveries."Donating to a food bank is a powerful way to make a difference in the fight against hunger and malnutrition as well as reducing waste and poverty. The Mexican Food Bank Network (BAMX Network) is grateful for International Paper's valuable donation of more than 14,000 boxes which will allows us to send food to the affected population after Hurricane Otis in Acapulco, Guerrero and families who benefit from local food bank programs."Since last October 2023, the BAMX Network and its partners (Caritas, CENACED, Rotary Club, Red Cross, Gilberto Foundation) have distributed nearly 500 tons of food to more than 440,000 people.Supporting food banks helps reduce poverty and provides food stability which has a significant impact on the community and the world at large.Access to adequate food is critical to the economic well-being of families. International Paper will continue to support efforts to fight hunger and continue our partnership with BAMX.Story continuesAbout International PaperInternational Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global producer of sustainable packaging, pulp and other fiber-based products, and one of the world's largest recyclers. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 39,000 colleagues globally who are committed to creating what's next. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2023 were $18.9 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting internationalpaper.com/.About International Paper - EMEAIn Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), International Paper focuses on the production and marketing of fiber-based packaging and specialty pulp, employing approximately 4,400 people. As a leading supplier of high-quality corrugated containers for a multitude of applications, we serve customers throughout the region from our network of two recycled containerboard mills and 23 box plants in France, Italy, Morocco, Portugal and Spain. Specialty pulp is made in Gdansk, Poland. Other products available from International Paper in the region include a variety of Kraft linerboard and other pulp products.View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from International Paper Company on 3blmedia.com.Contact Info:Spokesperson: International Paper CompanyWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/international-paper-companyEmail: [email protected]: International Paper CompanyView the original press release on accesswire.com

ACCESSWIRE

IP Fights Hungers and Disaster Relief in Mexico

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ip-fights-hungers-disaster-relief-183000950.html

00a6ff9d-fcd4-3f16-8041-aaaad688dfa6

IP

Annual recognition highlights organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to business integrity through robust ethics, compliance, and governance programs MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- International Paper (NYSE: IP), a global producer of sustainable packaging, pulp and other fiber-based products, received the 2024 World's Most Ethical Companies® recognition by Ethisphere, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices.International Paper Logo (PRNewsfoto/International Paper)IP has been recognized for the eighteenth time and is one of only two honorees in the Forestry, Paper and Packaging industry. In 2024, 136 honorees were recognized spanning 20 countries and 44 industries."Ethics is a core value at International Paper. We believe in doing the right things, in the right ways, for the right reasons, all of the time — this is The IP Way," said International Paper Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mark Sutton. "Our teams hold themselves to high ethical standards and shared principles of honesty, integrity and respect.""This recognition is a testament to the commitment of our leaders and team members around the world who operate every day in a responsible and ethical manner,"  said Joe Saab, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary,  International Paper. "On behalf of the entire IP team, we are honored to be recognized among the World's Most Ethical Companies for 18 straight years.""It's always inspiring to recognize the World's Most Ethical Companies®. Through the rigorous review process, we see the dedication of these organizations to continually improving their ethics, compliance, and governance practices to the benefit of all stakeholders," said Erica Salmon Byrne, Ethisphere's Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Chair. "Companies that elevate best-in-class cultures of ethics and integrity set a standard for corporate citizenship for their peers and competitors to follow. Congratulations to International Paper for achieving this honor and demonstrating that strong ethics is good business."Story continuesEthics & Performance: The Ethics PremiumThe listed 2024 World's Most Ethical Companies® Honorees outperformed a comparable index of global companies by 12.3 percentage points from January 2019 to January 2024.Methodology & ScoringThe World's Most Ethical Companies assessment is grounded in Ethisphere's proprietary Ethics Quotient®, an extensive questionnaire that requires companies to provide over 240 different proof points on their culture of ethics; environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices; ethics and compliance program; diversity, equity, & inclusion; and initiatives that support a strong value chain. That data undergoes further qualitative analysis by Ethisphere's panel of experts who spend thousands of hours vetting and evaluating each year's group of applicants. This process serves as an operating framework to capture and codify truly best-in-class ethics and compliance practices from organizations across industries and from around the world.Honorees To view the full list of this year's honorees, please visit the World's Most Ethical Companies website, at https://worldsmostethicalcompanies.com/honorees.About International Paper International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global producer of sustainable packaging, pulp and other fiber-based products, and one of the world's largest recyclers. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 39,000 colleagues globally who are committed to creating what's next. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2023 were $18.9 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting internationalpaper.com.About EthisphereEthisphere is the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices that strengthen corporate brands, build trust in the marketplace, and deliver business success. Ethisphere has deep expertise in measuring and defining core ethics standards using data-driven insights that help companies build strong cultures of ethics and integrity. Ethisphere honors superior achievement through its World's Most Ethical Companies® recognition program, provides a community of industry experts with the Business Ethics Leadership Alliance (BELA), and showcases trends and best practices in ethics with Ethisphere Magazine. Ethisphere also advances business performance through data-driven assessments, guidance, and benchmarking against its unparalleled data: the Culture Quotient dataset reflecting the ethical business practices of 3+ million employees around the world; and the Ethics Quotient dataset, featuring 240+ data points on the ethics, compliance, social, and governance practices of the World's Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit https://ethisphere.com.CisionView original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ethisphere-names-international-paper-as-one-of-the-2024-worlds-most-ethical-companies-for-the-18th-time-302082354.htmlSOURCE International Paper

PR Newswire

ETHISPHERE NAMES INTERNATIONAL PAPER AS ONE OF THE 2024 WORLD'S MOST ETHICAL COMPANIES® FOR THE 18TH TIME

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ethisphere-names-international-paper-one-133000087.html

3954dda2-a93e-3ea5-85c7-8e17ebbfeef8

IPG

It looks like The Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. (NYSE:IPG) is about to go ex-dividend in the next 4 days. The ex-dividend date is usually set to be one business day before the record date which is the cut-off date on which you must be present on the company's books as a shareholder in order to receive the dividend. The ex-dividend date is of consequence because whenever a stock is bought or sold, the trade takes at least two business day to settle. Meaning, you will need to purchase Interpublic Group of Companies' shares before the 29th of February to receive the dividend, which will be paid on the 15th of March.The company's next dividend payment will be US$0.33 per share, on the back of last year when the company paid a total of US$1.32 to shareholders. Based on the last year's worth of payments, Interpublic Group of Companies stock has a trailing yield of around 4.1% on the current share price of US$32.30. Dividends are an important source of income to many shareholders, but the health of the business is crucial to maintaining those dividends. That's why we should always check whether the dividend payments appear sustainable, and if the company is growing. See our latest analysis for Interpublic Group of Companies Dividends are typically paid from company earnings. If a company pays more in dividends than it earned in profit, then the dividend could be unsustainable. Fortunately Interpublic Group of Companies's payout ratio is modest, at just 43% of profit. That said, even highly profitable companies sometimes might not generate enough cash to pay the dividend, which is why we should always check if the dividend is covered by cash flow. Over the past year it paid out 128% of its free cash flow as dividends, which is uncomfortably high. We're curious about why the company paid out more cash than it generated last year, since this can be one of the early signs that a dividend may be unsustainable.Story continuesInterpublic Group of Companies paid out less in dividends than it reported in profits, but unfortunately it didn't generate enough cash to cover the dividend. Cash is king, as they say, and were Interpublic Group of Companies to repeatedly pay dividends that aren't well covered by cashflow, we would consider this a warning sign.Click here to see the company's payout ratio, plus analyst estimates of its future dividends.historic-dividendHave Earnings And Dividends Been Growing?Stocks in companies that generate sustainable earnings growth often make the best dividend prospects, as it is easier to lift the dividend when earnings are rising. If business enters a downturn and the dividend is cut, the company could see its value fall precipitously. Fortunately for readers, Interpublic Group of Companies's earnings per share have been growing at 12% a year for the past five years. Earnings have been growing at a decent rate, but we're concerned dividend payments consumed most of the company's cash flow over the past year.Many investors will assess a company's dividend performance by evaluating how much the dividend payments have changed over time. Interpublic Group of Companies has delivered an average of 16% per year annual increase in its dividend, based on the past 10 years of dividend payments. Both per-share earnings and dividends have both been growing rapidly in recent times, which is great to see.The Bottom LineFrom a dividend perspective, should investors buy or avoid Interpublic Group of Companies? We like that Interpublic Group of Companies has been successfully growing its earnings per share at a nice rate and reinvesting most of its profits in the business. However, we note the high cashflow payout ratio with some concern. In summary, while it has some positive characteristics, we're not inclined to race out and buy Interpublic Group of Companies today.While it's tempting to invest in Interpublic Group of Companies for the dividends alone, you should always be mindful of the risks involved. Every company has risks, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for Interpublic Group of Companies you should know about.A common investing mistake is buying the first interesting stock you see. Here you can find a full list of high-yield dividend stocks.Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Simply Wall St.

The Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. (NYSE:IPG) Is About To Go Ex-Dividend, And It Pays A 4.1% Yield

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/interpublic-group-companies-inc-nyse-145658993.html

134772c0-c466-368c-a4b9-0962f7126f29

IPG

A slowdown in technology marketers’ spending has been a drag on some ad holding companies, while others less reliant on tech are feeling little pain.Continue reading

The Wall Street Journal

Tech Splits Ad Companies’ Fortunes in Two

https://finance.yahoo.com/m/6068098e-c0b1-3656-94d3-8becfb216abd/tech-splits-ad-companies%E2%80%99.html

6068098e-c0b1-3656-94d3-8becfb216abd