SMX Demonstrates End-to-End Breakthrough in Cotton Traceability: Proves Ability to Verify Origin and Recycled Content from Mechanical Recycling Through Yarn Spinning and Finished Fabric
SMX (Security Matters) PLC announced a successful industrial pilot validating its full-chain traceability for cotton, demonstrating its molecular markers can verify material origin and recycled content from mechanical recycling through to finished fabric. This breakthrough provides a scientific method to authenticate recycled cotton, helping brands meet ESG and Digital Product Passport requirements, and strengthening sustainability claims. The technology integrates with existing textile operations, offering a scalable solution for verifiable content and supporting compliance for trade advantages.
Don’t overreact: Tariffs overturned, but fundamentals still rule
The article discusses the Supreme Court's decision to strike down the president's use of IEEPA to implement tariffs, arguing that this will likely have limited impact on long-term intrinsic valuations, similar to the initial tariff announcements. It highlights that market fundamentals and company-specific issues, rather than tariffs, are the primary drivers of stock performance, citing examples like Nike, Walmart, and Apple. The author also notes the surprising strength of the US economy in 2025 despite the tariffs, attributing it to other factors such as the AI boom and consumer spending.
Don’t Overreact: Tariffs Overturned, but Fundamentals Still Rule
Despite the Supreme Court striking down the president's use of IEEPA to implement tariffs, Morningstar predicts minimal changes to long-term intrinsic valuations, similar to when the tariffs were initially announced. The article emphasizes that fundamental analysis and company-specific valuations remain paramount for investors, as broader economic factors like AI buildout and consumer spending have had a more significant impact than previous tariffs. Various stock examples highlight how company fundamentals and current valuations often outweigh the direct impact of tariff changes.
Truist reiterates Buy on Amer Sports stock citing brand momentum By Investing.com
Truist Securities has reiterated a Buy rating on Amer Sports Inc. (NYSE:AS), setting a $46.00 price target. The firm cites strong brand momentum for Arc’teryx and Salomon, particularly due to their viral success on social media platforms like TikTok and Pinterest, and believes the brands are poised for significant U.S. expansion. Analysts are generally optimistic about Amer Sports' growth prospects, further supported by the company's recent announcement to redeem $80 million in senior secured notes.
Alberta Investment Management Corp Sells 3,100 Shares of Costco Wholesale Corporation $COST
Alberta Investment Management Corp significantly reduced its stake in Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) by 58.5%, selling 3,100 shares and retaining 2,200 shares valued at approximately $2.04 million. This move coincides with recent insider selling by two executive VPs, totaling 6,915 shares sold for $6.32 million over the last 90 days. Despite institutional ownership being high at 68.48% and an average "Moderate Buy" analyst rating, the stock trades near $988 with a P/E of ~52.9 and a 0.5% dividend yield, raising questions about valuation after multi-year gains.
International logistics company announces closure of Memphis distribution center
GXO Logistics will close its distribution center in Memphis, Tennessee, resulting in 185 layoffs. The closure is expected to occur between April 3 and May 31, 2026. This follows other business closures in the Mid-South, including IKEA and Nike.
Coca-Cola bottler sued by federal agency over work event that excluded men
A Coca-Cola distributor and bottler is being sued by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for alleged sexual discrimination. The lawsuit claims the company held a networking event in September 2024 that exclusively invited female employees, violating federal law. This marks the first such lawsuit filed by the EEOC during President Trump's second term, which has prioritized dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.
US civil rights agency sues Coca-Cola distributor for excluding men from casino work trip
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is suing Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast for alleged sex discrimination, claiming the company excluded male employees from a women's networking event at a casino resort. The lawsuit challenges diversity programming, an area the EEOC has recently targeted, and seeks monetary compensation for men who were excluded. Coca-Cola Northeast expressed disappointment in the EEOC's investigation process and stated they look forward to being vindicated in court.
Here's What Analysts Are Saying About Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST)
Bernstein and Evercore ISI have reaffirmed positive ratings for Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST). Bernstein maintained an Outperform rating and a $1,155 price target, while Evercore ICI reiterated an Outperform rating and raised its price target to $1,050. The article highlights Costco's position as a natural and organic food stock and mentions the broader economic factors influencing the retail sector.
Enveric Stock Surges After Licensed Trademark Deal
Enveric Biosciences Inc. (NASDAQ: ENVB) saw its stock price surge by over 14% following an FDA positive designation and promising study results, along with a strategic trademark licensing deal with Totec Pharma. This deal, focused on cannabinoid cremes for radiation dermatitis, enhances commercial possibilities and secures future growth. The company also closed a significant $1.5 million funding round to boost its R&D and product development efforts.
Harold Davidson & Associates Inc. Raises Holdings in Costco Wholesale Corporation $COST
Harold Davidson & Associates Inc. significantly increased its stake in Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) by 41.2% in the third quarter, making it their 9th largest holding. This comes as Costco reported strong quarterly earnings, beating analyst estimates, and declared a $1.30 quarterly dividend. Despite this positive institutional sentiment and operational performance, the article also highlights recent insider selling and mixed analyst ratings, with an average "Moderate Buy" consensus.
US agency sues Coca-Cola bottler over employee event that excluded men
A U.S. civil rights agency has sued Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast, a bottler and distributor of Coca-Cola products, for sex discrimination. The lawsuit alleges that the company violated federal law by hosting an employee networking event in September 2024 that excluded men. This marks the first lawsuit by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission against a workplace diversity program since President Donald Trump took office, aligning with his administration's stance against certain diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Oxford Industries: Quiet Pullback Before Earnings—Opportunity or Value Trap?
Oxford Industries (OXM), parent company of Tommy Bahama and Lilly Pulitzer, is experiencing a quiet pullback ahead of its next earnings release. The analysis explores whether this presents an investment opportunity or a value trap, considering potential slower growth, increased promotions in retail, and the company's reliance on discretionary spending by higher-income consumers. The article provides insights for US investors on how OXM fits into a portfolio, current macro trends, and analyst outlooks.
Intuit Fell 10% in the Last 30 Days. Here’s Where the Stock Could Go in 2026
Intuit stock has fallen 10% in the last 30 days, trading near its 52-week low due to institutional trimming and valuation compression, rather than fundamental issues. Despite this, the company is integrating AI and expanding assisted tax services, with a valuation model suggesting a target price of $622, implying a 55.7% upside. This indicates Intuit may be undervalued given its projected double-digit revenue growth and margin expansion.
Constellation Energy Rose 10% This Week. Here’s Where the Stock Could Go in 2026
Constellation Energy (CEG) stock increased by 10% this week, trading near $288 per share, driven by new data center power agreements and growing confidence in long-term electricity demand from AI infrastructure. The company’s Calpine unit secured significant deals, expanding its contracted capacity. Analysts, despite slight price target adjustments, maintain an Overweight rating, projecting a potential 22% upside to $351 by 2026, making CEG appear undervalued.
Rezolve AI Buys Reward Loyalty UK for $230M, Targets $350M+ 2026 Revenue and $500M ARR
Rezolve AI acquired Reward Loyalty UK for $230 million in an all-cash deal, aiming to significantly boost its revenue and ARR. The acquisition is expected to accelerate RezolvePay and strengthen its Brain Commerce platform by integrating Reward's transaction intelligence and banking partnerships. Rezolve projects over $350 million in revenue for 2026 and an exit ARR of at least $500 million, leveraging Reward's existing profitability and extensive retail and banking network.
Hershey’s Team USA Medals Aim To Lift Brand Relevance And Returns
Hershey is launching limited-edition Team USA chocolate medals for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games, coupled with TikTok and Snapchat campaigns, to boost brand relevance and engage with consumers, especially younger, social media-savvy audiences. This initiative is seen as a strategic marketing investment rather than a short-term sales push, aiming to strengthen pricing power and support long-term revenue growth, although investors will be watching its impact on profit margins and overall returns, given past pressures and high debt levels. The campaign aligns with Hershey's guidance for 4-5% net sales growth and higher EPS.
NIKE, Inc. Declares $0.41 Quarterly Dividend
NIKE, Inc. announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.41 per share for its Class A and Class B Common Stock. The dividend is payable on April 1, 2026, to shareholders of record as of March 2, 2026. This announcement highlights NIKE's continued commitment to returning value to its shareholders.
Nike Converse Reset Raises Questions On Brand Future And Portfolio Story
Nike is undertaking a major restructuring at its Converse unit, including layoffs and leadership changes, due to repeated underperformance. This move is part of Nike's broader "Win Now" turnaround plan aimed at improving profitability and focusing on core performance categories. Investors are now questioning Converse's future within Nike's portfolio, with potential outcomes ranging from further restructuring to divestiture.
Deep Dive: Crocs, Inc. (CROX) – Navigating the HEYDUDE Reset and the Future of Comfort
Crocs, Inc. (CROX) is navigating a "brand reset" for its HEYDUDE acquisition while continuing the international growth of its core Crocs brand. Once nearly collapsing in 2008, Crocs has transformed into a high-margin powerhouse under CEO Andrew Rees, leveraging its "ugly-cool" aesthetic and asset-light business model. The company faces challenges with HEYDUDE's performance and fashion cycle risks but has opportunities in international expansion and new product lines.
Barclays Reaffirms Their Buy Rating on Hilton Worldwide Holdings (HLT)
Barclays analyst Brandt Montour has reaffirmed a Buy rating on Hilton Worldwide Holdings (HLT) with a price target of $350.00. Montour, a 4-star analyst, has a 7.5% average return and a 51.51% success rate in the Consumer Cyclical sector. This comes as Hilton reported a quarterly revenue of $3.12 billion and a net profit of $420 million for the quarter ending September 30.
ING Groep NV Buys 300,597 Shares of NIKE, Inc. $NKE
ING Groep NV significantly increased its stake in NIKE, Inc. by 5,363.0% during the third quarter, acquiring an additional 300,597 shares to own a total of 306,202 shares valued at $21.35 million. This comes as NIKE's stock has seen a 1.1% dip, yet the company recently increased its quarterly dividend and analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with a consensus price target of $74.61. Insider buying has also been noted, with CEO Elliott Hill and Director Timothy D. Cook acquiring substantial shares in recent months.
Will Bonds Outperform Stocks in 2026? Why the Timing Might Be Right To Double Down on Bonds.
This article explores the potential for bonds to outperform stocks in 2026, citing factors like attractive yields and the potential for a steepening yield curve as central banks normalize policy. The author, Rob Isbitts, suggests that while stocks have dominated recently, fixed income is gaining footing and could offer significant opportunities, particularly if interest rates begin to fall. He highlights his strategy of using a bond ladder and discusses the volatility differences between various bond ETFs.
Deep Dive: Crocs, Inc. (CROX) – Navigating the HEYDUDE Reset and the Future of Comfort
Crocs, Inc. (CROX) is navigating a "brand reset" for its HEYDUDE acquisition while maintaining growth for its core Crocs brand. Despite a dip in overall revenue for FY 2025 and challenges with HEYDUDE, the company maintains strong gross margins and is focusing on international expansion and product diversification. Analysts are in a "show me" phase, waiting for proof of HEYDUDE's stabilization and sustained growth.
Nike Reshapes Converse As Investors Reassess Brand Mix And Valuation
Nike is implementing significant restructuring, including layoffs and new leadership, at its Converse brand due to competitive pressures and declining sales. This move prompts investors to re-evaluate Nike's overall brand portfolio, cost structure, and future growth strategies. While the stock currently trades below analyst targets, Simply Wall St's valuation suggests it's overvalued, and dividend coverage is flagged as weak, advising investors to watch for management's future statements on Converse's role and its impact on group margins.
Pershing Square Sells Stake in Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CP)
Pershing Square has sold its holdings in Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CP), along with stakes in Chipotle, Nike, and Hilton, as part of adjustments to its investment portfolio. The firm has simultaneously invested in Hertz, Amazon, and Meta Platforms, expressing optimism about their future potential despite noting financial stress indicators and insider selling at CP. Canadian Pacific Kansas City, a Class I railroad with a market capitalization of $74.68 billion, shows strong revenue growth and profitability but faces liquidity concerns and a declining gross margin.
TJX Companies to Announce Q4 and FY 2026 Results
TJX Companies plans to release its Q4 and full-year Fiscal 2026 sales and earnings results on February 25, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. ET, followed by a conference call at 11:00 a.m. ET with CEO Ernie Herrman. The call will be webcast live on TJX.com. Analysts currently forecast TJX stock price to rise, with an average 1-year target of $169.81.
EXEC: Dick’s SG Scores Upgrade from Baird, Eyes Strong Foot Locker Recovery Potential
Baird has upgraded Dick's Sporting Goods (DKS) to "Outperform" from "Neutral," raising its price target to $253. The upgrade is driven by Dick's strong productivity gains, continued market share growth potential in the U.S. sporting goods market, and bullish sentiment regarding the multi-year recovery of the recently acquired Foot Locker business. Analyst Jonathan Komp highlights Dick's effective merchandising, in-store experiences, and ongoing expansion of its House of Sport and Field House concepts.
UBS Remains a Buy on Birkenstock Holding plc (BIRK)
UBS analyst Jay Sole maintained a Buy rating on Birkenstock Holding plc (BIRK) with a price target of $77.00. This rating follows recent financial reports showing increased revenue and net profit for Birkenstock, although Morgan Stanley has maintained a Hold rating on the stock. Other analysts have offered mixed views, with some upgrading to Buy and others lowering price targets.
Under Armour Faces Data Breach Affecting 72 Million Customers
Under Armour is confronting a significant data breach, reportedly affecting 72 million customers and linked to the Everest ransomware gang. This incident has led to a 7.83% drop in Under Armour (NYSE: UA) Class C stock and has raised concerns about the company's financial stability, data protection, and market reputation. The company is actively investigating the breach and its financial and legal ramifications amidst already turbulent financials and competitive pressures from rivals like Nike and Adidas.
Target appoints Lisa Roath as COO, Rick Gomez to step down as CCO
Target Corporation has announced that Lisa Roath will take on the role of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer starting February 15, bringing extensive experience from her previous positions within the company. Concurrently, Rick Gomez, the current Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, will be stepping down from his role on the same date, transitioning to an advisory position before his departure in April. These leadership changes are part of broader executive and board adjustments at Target, which also include a new CEO appointment and board members, amid increased competition and a focus on long-term growth.
RPT-With Puma stake, China's Anta seeks to enter the arena with Nike and Adidas
China's top sportswear company, Anta Sports, is expanding its global presence through an aggressive acquisition strategy, including a recent $1.8 billion stake in Puma. Having surpassed Nike and Adidas in the Chinese market, Anta aims to become the world's largest sportswear conglomerate. The Puma deal is crucial for Anta to gain a foothold in the global mass market, particularly in the U.S. and Europe, where its own brand has limited recognition outside Asia.
Target To Reportedly Beef Up Store Staffing, Cut 500 Jobs Elsewhere To Address Customer Complaints
Target (TGT) is reportedly overhauling its store operations to improve customer experience by increasing store staffing and cutting approximately 500 jobs across its supply chain and district levels. The restructuring, driven by newly-appointed CEO Michael Fiddelke, aims to address customer complaints about store conditions and long checkout lines. This move follows previous corporate layoffs in 2025 and seeks to channel more resources into enhancing the in-store shopping experience for customers.
10 Consumer Discretionary Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session
This article identifies ten consumer discretionary stocks that have triggered "whale alerts," indicating significant options trading activity. It details specific call and put option sweeps and trades for companies like Tesla, Alibaba, and Nike, highlighting the sentiment (neutral, bearish, or bullish), expiration dates, strike prices, and total trade values for these unusual options activities. The information is designed to help traders identify potential trading opportunities based on large-scale institutional movements.
Allbirds at 10: How a $6 billion sustainable footwear dream unravelled
This article chronicles the rise and fall of Allbirds, a sustainable footwear company, celebrating its 10th anniversary. Starting from a successful Kickstarter campaign and becoming a Silicon Valley darling with a valuation over US$4 billion, the company has faced significant challenges. The author traces its journey through material innovations, lawsuits, IPO, and ultimately, store closures and financial struggles, reflecting on how its sustainable dream unravelled.
BTIG Reiterates Buy on Lululemon (LULU) Despite Weak North America Trends
BTIG analyst Janine Stichter reiterated a Buy rating on Lululemon Athletica Inc. (LULU) with a $303 price target, despite weak North America trends. Stichter believes the investment opportunity lies in Lululemon’s strategic execution, rather than immediate product innovations, and sees potential for improvement in product presentation, merchandising, and marketing. She noted that early positive changes, such as a refined color palette and increased online merchandising of two-piece sets, could lead to better in-store experiences.
With Puma stake, China's Anta seeks to enter the arena with Nike and Adidas
China's top sportswear company, Anta Sports, is expanding its global presence through an acquisition strategy, notably with a recent $1.8 billion stake in Germany's Puma. This move aims to challenge international giants like Nike and Adidas, leveraging Anta's success in China where it already commands 23% of the sportswear market. Anta plans to use its proven strategy of brand acquisition and market penetration, as seen with Amer Sports, to boost Puma's presence in China and gain a crucial global mass-market foothold with Puma's established recognition in the U.S. and Europe.
EEOC Probe Puts Nike DEI Policies And Valuation In Investor Focus
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has launched a federal investigation into Nike's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, probing claims of race discrimination against White employees and job applicants. This legal challenge could impact Nike's workforce strategy, compliance costs, and brand perception, adding crucial considerations for investors examining the company's valuation and growth expectations. The investigation's outcome could also influence how other large companies structure their DEI programs.
Real Networks charges Aktiv Digital to lead regional sales for Real Player
Real Networks has appointed Aktiv Digital as its sales partner for the Real Player platform across the Asia-Pacific region. Aktiv Digital will be responsible for monetizing ad units on the Real Player software and will leverage its existing relationships with FMCG and entertainment brands. This partnership aims to boost Real Player's ad revenues despite strong competition from other media players.
A Look At Deckers Outdoor (DECK) Valuation After Record Q3 Results And Higher Full Year Guidance
Deckers Outdoor (DECK) reported record Q3 results and raised full-year guidance, leading to a recent surge in its share price. While Simply Wall St's valuation narrative suggests the stock is slightly overvalued at $111.40, their DCF model indicates it could be undervalued by about 21% with a fair value of $142.73. The company's UGG and HOKA brands are expected to continue driving revenue growth through new products and expanding market recognition.
The Truth About Deckers (DECK): Is This Silent Stock About To Explode Or Is The Hype Over?
This article examines Deckers Outdoor Corp (DECK), the company behind popular brands like UGG and HOKA, to determine if its stock is a worthwhile investment or merely riding a wave of social media hype. It discusses the strength of Deckers' diverse brand portfolio, its successful shift from seasonal to year-round demand for its products, and how it strategically competes against larger rivals like Nike and Adidas. The piece concludes that while DECK is a solid, long-term growth stock rather than a quick flip, potential investors should still conduct their own due diligence.
Jerash Holdings To Acquire 184,000-Sq.-Ft. Manufacturing Facility in Jordan
Jerash Holdings (US), Inc. (Nasdaq:JRSH) announced the acquisition of a 184,000 square-foot manufacturing facility in Amman, Jordan, for approximately $3.4 million. The company plans to invest an additional $5.0 million for renovations and new equipment, expecting to increase manufacturing capacity by at least 40% and create up to 2,500 new jobs. This move aims to meet growing customer demand and expand business opportunities for the sportswear and outerwear manufacturer.
Gildan Activewear (TSX:GIL) Is Up 5.8% After Dividend Aristocrat Nod Amid Board Tensions – Has The Bull Case Changed?
Gildan Activewear (TSX:GIL) was recently added to the S&P/TSX Canadian Dividend Aristocrats Index, boosting its stock by 5.8%, despite ongoing activist pressure and boardroom disputes. While index inclusion reinforces its dividend track record and could widen its shareholder base, the company's investment narrative remains complicated by governance uncertainty, high leverage, and varying fair value estimates among investors. The main challenge lies in balancing its established history with future leadership, strategic changes, and the effectiveness of new management.
Byrna Technologies Reports Record Fiscal Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Results; Full Year Revenue Up 38% Year-over-Year
Byrna Technologies (Nasdaq: BYRN) reported record fiscal fourth quarter and full year 2025 results, with full-year revenue increasing by 38% year-over-year to $118.1 million. The company expanded its monthly production capacity by 33% and diversified its sales model, significantly increasing its brick-and-mortar presence to over 1,500 locations. Byrna also introduced new products like the Byrna CL XL launcher and secured a $20 million credit facility to support future growth and potential acquisitions.
Why Is Nike Stock Surging On Wednesday?
Nike's stock surged on Wednesday, benefiting from a positive broader market despite some mixed technical indicators and recent layoffs. While the company faces upcoming job cuts and mixed analyst sentiment, its stock still carries a "Buy" rating with an average price target of $79.70. Investors are looking forward to Nike's next earnings report on March 19, 2026.
Under Armour Debuts Click Clack: The Next Era, Celebrating the Women Redefining Flag Football
Under Armour has launched "Click Clack: The Next Era," a campaign celebrating the women who are redefining flag football. This initiative, released on National Girls and Women in Sports Day, highlights elite female athletes and aims to support the sport's growth. The campaign also showcases Under Armour's latest football-ready gear and reinforces the brand's commitment to flag football through various partnerships and a $1 million grant.
The Five Most Important Analyst Inquiries From VF Corp’s Fourth Quarter Earnings Conference
VF Corp's Q4 earnings call revealed market concerns despite surpassing revenue expectations, driven by strong performance from The North Face and Timberland, though Vans' struggles and international challenges persist. Analyst inquiries focused on consumer demand, Vans' recovery, growth in The North Face, foot traffic at Vans stores, and the return of long-term guidance. The company's stock rose slightly post-earnings, signaling a potential turning point to watch.
Steven Madden stock hits 52-week high at 46.61 USD
Steven Madden (SHOO) stock reached a 52-week high of $46.61, marking a 25.37% increase over the past year. This growth is attributed to strong consumer demand and strategic initiatives, including its acquisition of Kurt Geiger. Analyst price targets range up to $53, with firms like UBS, Williams Trading, and BTIG providing ratings and price adjustments based on company performance and market trends.
Steven Madden stock hits 52-week high at 46.61 USD By Investing.com
Steven Madden (SHOO) stock reached a new 52-week high of $46.61, reflecting a significant 25.37% increase over the past year. This growth is attributed to strong consumer demand and strategic initiatives. The company currently has a market capitalization of $3.4 billion, with analyst price targets reaching up to $53.
Academy Sports Outdoors stock hits 52-week high at $59.52
Academy Sports Outdoors Inc. (ASO) stock has reached a new 52-week high of $59.55, reflecting a strong year with an 11.41% price return over the past 12 months. Despite this, InvestingPro analysis indicates the stock may still be undervalued with a P/E ratio of 10.72. The company's performance is supported by aggressive share buybacks, a 0.93% dividend yield, and significant dividend growth.
