Arabica Coffee Surges to a Near One-Month High: J.M. Smucker (NYSE:SJM), Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX) in Focus
Arabica coffee prices have surged to a near one-month high due to heavy rainfall in Brazil delaying harvest and affecting higher-grade bean drying, keeping ICE-certified stocks tight despite an expected record crop. This rise in input costs impacts companies like J.M. Smucker (NYSE:SJM) and Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX), which manage exposure through pricing and purchasing contracts. Future prices depend on continued weather patterns in Brazil, stock reports, and flowering outcomes for the 2027 crop.
Starbucks faces lawsuit over 'Sugar-Free' protein drinks containing natural milk sugar.
Starbucks is facing a lawsuit for allegedly mislabeling eight protein drinks as "Sugar-Free" despite containing 13 to 21 grams of naturally occurring milk sugar, which exceeds the FDA's "sugar-free" threshold. The company disputes the claims, asserting that it provides clear nutritional information. This case highlights ongoing concerns about labeling transparency and could influence Starbucks' future marketing strategies for these products.
Starbucks sued for allegedly mislabeling 'sugar-free' protein drinks
Starbucks is facing a class-action lawsuit alleging that it misleadingly markets eight protein beverages as "Sugar-Free" despite them containing 13 to 21 grams of naturally occurring sugar from milk. The lawsuit contends that this violates federal labeling rules, while Starbucks maintains its claims are without merit and that it provides clear nutritional information. The dispute centers on the distinction between total sugar and added sugar, and the plaintiffs argue that the "Sugar-Free" label should only apply to products with less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving, including naturally occurring sugars.
Queso and coffee? Rumors of a Chipotle-Starbucks merger boost shares (CMG:NYSE)
Shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG) and Starbucks (SBUX) surged today on rumors of a potential merger between the two companies. Semafor is reportedly fueling speculation that the Mexican restaurant chain could combine with the coffee giant.
A Lawsuit Accuses Starbucks of Mislabeling 8 'Sugar-free' Protein Drinks
Starbucks is facing a federal class-action lawsuit alleging that eight of its "sugar-free" protein drinks contain significant amounts of sugar, potentially more than a Reese's peanut butter cup. The lawsuit, filed by Hagens Berman on behalf of consumers, claims that Starbucks' labeling is "false, deceptive and unlawful." Starbucks defends its labeling, stating the sugar comes from protein-boosted milk and no additional sugar or sugary syrups are added.
Starbucks mislabeled some protein drinks as sugar-free, a new class action lawsuit alleges.
A new class action lawsuit alleges that Starbucks falsely labeled eight of its protein drinks as "sugar-free," despite each containing 13 to 21 grams of sugar per venti serving. The lawsuit, filed by Michael Walsh, Anne Legnini, and Elna Potter, claims these products violate FDA rules for sugar-free labeling and various consumer protection laws. The plaintiffs are seeking refunds, damages, and a court order to prevent Starbucks from using "sugar-free" labels on these drinks in the future.
Starbucks stock gains 1.39 percent as lawsuit adds risk
Starbucks stock saw a 1.39% gain, trading at USD 95.74 on October 6, 2026, despite a new lawsuit challenging its "sugar-free" menu claims. The company reported an 86% increase in Q3 GAAP diluted EPS to USD 0.91, although consolidated revenue declined by 1%. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, with a consensus price target of USD 112, balancing the improved earnings expectations against the added legal and execution risks.
Bank of America keeps USD 143.00 target for Starbucks stock
Bank of America has maintained its Buy rating and USD 143.00 price target for Starbucks stock, according to Yahoo Finance. This target comes as Starbucks prepares to release its next quarterly results and despite a 1.40 percent revenue drop in fiscal Q3 2026, which was influenced by a China transaction. The analyst's stance is partly based on positive customer feedback regarding Starbucks' mobile ordering and AI tools, though the company faces the challenge of translating improved customer traffic into sustained margin expansion.
Walmart's China Bet Pays Off as Sam's Club Defies Consumer Slump
Walmart's China business is experiencing significant growth, primarily driven by the expansion of its Sam's Club membership warehouses, even as the broader Chinese consumer economy stagnates. Under CEO Christina Zhu, the company has implemented a digital-first strategy, transforming stores into fulfillment hubs and expanding its cloud-warehouse network for rapid grocery delivery. This approach has allowed Walmart to thrive where many other foreign brands are struggling against domestic competition.
Lawsuit accuses Starbucks of mislabeling 8 ‘sugar-free’ protein drinks
Starbucks is facing a federal lawsuit alleging that eight of its protein drinks, labeled "sugar-free," contain significant amounts of sugar, potentially more than a Reese's peanut butter cup. The lawsuit claims this mislabeling is deceptive and unlawful, violating federal regulations. Starbucks defends that the sugar comes from its protein-boosted milk and no additional sugar is added, stating they provide nutritional information clearly.
Starbucks stock keeps BofA's USD 143 target before earnings
Bank of America has maintained its $143 price target and Buy rating for Starbucks stock (SBUX) ahead of its upcoming earnings report on October 28. Despite a 1% decline in Q3 revenue, comparable-store sales increased, and GAAP EPS rose significantly. Starbucks also announced plans to close 250 North America coffeehouses and adjusted its fiscal year guidance.
Starbucks enters Xinjiang in calculated geopolitical risk
Starbucks' recent expansion into China's Xinjiang region, following the sale of a majority stake in its China operations to Boyu Capital, has sparked geopolitical controversy. While the move is seen by some as a commercial strategy to tap into underserved markets and boost growth, it has drawn sharp criticism from the U.S. House Select Committee on China due to alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang. The decision highlights the complex interplay between business opportunities and geopolitical risks for American companies operating in China.
Starbucks Faces Lawsuit Over 'Sugar-Free' Drinks With Up to 21 Grams of Sugar
Starbucks is facing a class-action lawsuit alleging that several of its "sugar-free" protein drinks contain significant amounts of sugar (up to 21 grams) due to lactose in milk. The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in Seattle, claims these drinks violate federal regulations for "sugar-free" labeling and are not low-calorie or weight management aids. The financial impact for Starbucks is currently unknown, but investors should monitor potential changes to product labeling or marketing.
Starbucks (SBUX) officer plans to sell 1,641 shares after three sales of 2,229 shares each.
Starbucks officer Brady Brewer intends to sell 1,641 common shares, valued at $155,501.16, with an approximate sale date of October 5, 2026. These shares were acquired through restricted stock vesting on November 18, 2025. Brewer also reported three previous sales of 2,229 shares each in July, August, and September 2026.
Chipotle Sinks 4% as Selling Outruns the Restaurant Group; McDonald’s and Starbucks Dip
Chipotle stock has fallen 4% and is extending a month-long slide, dropping 19% over the past month and nearing its 52-week low. This decline is significantly sharper than that of its rivals, McDonald's and Starbucks, which saw drops of less than 1%. The selling is attributed to margin pressure from beef and freight inflation, despite revenue growth, and an options market signaling further potential downside.
Wells Fargo & Company Has Lowered Expectations for Hershey (NYSE:HSY) Stock Price
Wells Fargo & Company has reduced its price target for Hershey (NYSE:HSY) from $190 to $170, while maintaining an "equal weight" rating, despite the company exceeding recent quarterly earnings and revenue estimates. Hershey currently holds a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts with an average price target of $203.67. The stock is trading near its 52-week low at $162.59, and insider activity shows a CFO selling shares, while institutional investors have adjusted their positions.
U.S. Lawmaker Demands Starbucks Close Retail Stores in Xinjiang, China
A U.S. lawmaker has called for Starbucks to close its newly opened stores in Xinjiang, China, citing human rights concerns regarding the treatment of Uyghurs. This political pressure on Starbucks comes despite the company having sold a majority stake in its China retail business, limiting the direct financial impact, and ahead of its Q4 earnings report which is expected to be a more significant factor for its stock performance.
10/05/2026: More Starbucks Unfair Labor Practices
This article details several recent NLRB decisions involving Starbucks, outlining instances of unfair labor practices during union organizing campaigns. It covers cases where Starbucks managers made unlawful statements, constructively discharged a union-active supervisor, and failed to comply with settlement agreements regarding other labor violations. The article also discusses a regional director's decision concerning union election blocking charges and the classification of supervisory roles for archaeological field technicians.
Why Are Investors Revisiting Range Resources (NYSE:RRC) Now?
Range Resources (NYSE:RRC) is currently attracting investor attention due to energy-market uncertainty, which favors producers maintaining capital discipline and operational flexibility. The key for the company is to demonstrate repeatable execution in Appalachian natural-gas production. While the NYSE Composite provides broad context, Range Resources' specific company performance and disclosures will be crucial in determining its long-term investment viability.
DT Stock Gains After Morgan Stanley Upgrade — Why Brokerage Says Dynatrace Could Be An AI Boom Winner
Dynatrace Inc. (DT) shares rose nearly 5% after Morgan Stanley upgraded the stock to 'Overweight' from 'Equal Weight' and raised its price target to $65 from $58. The brokerage firm expects Dynatrace to benefit from an anticipated boom in the observability market, driven by cloud growth and enterprise AI investments. Analysts believe Dynatrace could achieve durable growth of 20% or more and margin expansion over the next two years as demand for AI-related observability solutions increases.
Ambev S.A. $ABEV Stock Sold by Corient Private Wealth LP
Corient Private Wealth LP significantly reduced its stake in Ambev S.A. (ABEV) by 97.2% in Q2 2026, selling over 3 million shares. This move comes as Ambev reported in-line EPS but missed revenue estimates, and analysts maintain a cautious "Reduce" rating with a consensus target price of $3.08. Other institutional investors showed mixed activity, while an insider director also sold a substantial number of shares.
Starbucks closes 250 stores: Baird cuts target for Starbucks stock
Starbucks plans to close 250 stores in North America and revise its fiscal 2026 opening target to 440 from an earlier 600-650, incurring a $300 million restructuring charge. This strategic shift prioritizes store quality over rapid expansion. Baird has adjusted its price target for Starbucks stock from $124 to $115, reflecting a more cautious valuation despite the stock trading below this new target.
Business Ins and Outs | Jack in the Box, airport shuttle, Dutch Bros. and 7 Brew opening
This article details new business openings and developments in Northwest Indiana. Jack in the Box is returning with its first location in Hammond, while 7 Brew and Dutch Bros. coffee chains are expanding their presence in the region. Additionally, a new airport shuttle service, City Zoom, has launched to O'Hare International Airport, and other businesses like Erie Home and Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance - Christenson Agency have opened new offices.
Wise Group plc (NASDAQ:WSE) Stock Has Average Target Price of $16.52 According to Analysts
Analysts have issued a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating for Wise Group plc (NASDAQ:WSE), with an average 12-month price target of $16.52, significantly above its current trading price of $11.44. The company recently reported quarterly EPS of $0.12 on revenues of $576.48 million, and analysts anticipate a full-year EPS of $0.57. Several major institutional investors, including Amundi and Allianz Asset Management, have recently acquired significant stakes in the company.
Westrock Coffee Company $WEST Stock Holdings Decreased by Silverleafe Capital Partners LLC
Silverleafe Capital Partners LLC significantly reduced its stake in Westrock Coffee Company (NASDAQ:WEST) by 63.3% in the third quarter, selling over 613,000 shares but retaining a holding valued at approximately $2.86 million. Despite this, other institutional investors like BlackRock and Bank of America have recently initiated positions in the company, with institutional investors collectively owning 45.08% of Westrock Coffee. Analyst sentiment for WEST is mixed, resulting in a consensus "Hold" rating and a $10 price target, while the company's recent quarterly revenue and earnings fell below expectations.
Starbucks shuts 37+ Canadian locations, including brand-new and decades-old cafés — what workers are owed
Starbucks has closed at least 37 Canadian locations, including both newly opened and long-standing cafes, as part of a larger plan to shut down approximately 250 North American stores deemed "underperforming." While Starbucks states it reviews each location based on customer experience and long-term performance, the closures include busy downtown stores, raising questions about their criteria. Affected workers may be offered transfers or severance packages, with provincial laws determining minimum entitlements.
Starbucks Loses Bid to Dismiss Union Trademark, Copyright Suit
A federal judge denied Starbucks' attempt to dismiss a lawsuit brought by its workers' union regarding the use of the company's name and logo. The Starbucks Workers Union claims it has valid grounds for using the branding and is entitled to proceed with discovery. Starbucks had argued that a memorandum of understanding resolved the dispute, but the court disagreed.
Starbucks Corp. Research & Ratings | SBUX
This article provides a detailed research and ratings overview for Starbucks Corp. (SBUX), including analyst ratings, stock grader sentiment, key financial metrics, historical performance data, and earnings estimates. It also lists peer companies for comparison and outlines upcoming earnings report dates.
Starbucks loses bid to dismiss labor union's trademark case
A federal judge in Pennsylvania has denied Starbucks' request to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Workers United, the union representing thousands of its employees. The union's lawsuit aims to validate its use of the name "Starbucks Workers United" and a modified Starbucks logo, in response to the coffee giant's trademark infringement claims. This legal dispute is part of ongoing tensions between Starbucks and the union that began five years ago when the first employees unionized.
Starbucks stock after-hours at EUR 84.17: plus 0.08 percent versus prior close
Starbucks stock rose by 0.08 percent in after-hours trading, reaching EUR 84.17 according to Lang & Schwarz. This increase follows a prior close of EUR 84.10. The article also mentions a recent shareholder proposal asking Starbucks to reinstate its Environmental, Partner, and Community Impact Committee, and the House Select Committee on China's call for Starbucks to close stores in Xinjiang.
PepsiCo Inc. Research & Ratings | PEP
This article provides research and ratings for PepsiCo Inc. (PEP), including analyst ratings, stock grader sentiment, key financial data, and earnings estimates. It also lists peer comparisons and details various data providers and their disclaimers.
The Zacks Analyst Blog Highlights Cisco Systems, Shopify, Starbucks and Smith-Midland
This Zacks Analyst Blog features new research reports on Cisco Systems, Shopify Inc., Starbucks Corp., and micro-cap stock Smith-Midland Corp. The reports detail the growth drivers, risks, and performance outlook for each company, based on analysis by Zacks Equity Research analysts. It also mentions a special stock pick recommendation from the Director of Research.
Baird Adjusts Price Target on Starbucks to $115 From $124, Keeps Outperform Rating
Baird has adjusted its price target for Starbucks (SBUX) to $115, down from the previous $124, while maintaining an "Outperform" rating on the stock. This revision comes amidst other analyst adjustments for Starbucks, with JPMorgan also lowering its price target recently, though Rothschild & Co Redburn increased theirs slightly. The article also touches on recent news surrounding Starbucks' operations in China and a deal regarding its Asian franchises.
What Changed For Jack In The Box When The Story Stopped Covering The Numbers?
Jack in the Box (NASDAQ: JACK) shares recently spiked by 45% due to a short squeeze and a US$500 million debt refinancing, despite a 35.3% loss for shareholders over the past year. The company plans to shut down 150 to 200 underperforming locations by 2026. While the debt refinancing addressed balance sheet risks, recent quarterly results showed a decline in revenue and net income, highlighting ongoing profitability pressures.
US congressman demands Starbucks close its first stores in China's Xinjiang
A U.S. congressman has urged Starbucks to close its newly opened stores in Xinjiang, China, calling the decision "morally bankrupt" due to alleged repression of Uyghurs in the region. Starbucks opened two stores in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, and stated it would continue investing in the region, while China denies accusations of abuses against Uyghurs. The congressman, John Moolenaar, emphasized that there is no justifiable reason for an American company to operate in a region where the CCP is accused of detaining and culturally stripping over a million Uyghurs.
Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO) stock price, news, quote and history - Yahoo Finance
This page provides a comprehensive overview of Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO) stock, including its current price, news, and historical data. It highlights recent news articles from various financial publications concerning Cisco's performance, AI initiatives, security growth, and comparisons with competitors. The page also includes performance metrics, showing Cisco's strong trailing total returns compared to the S&P 500.
Are Retail-Wholesale Stocks Lagging BJ's Restaurants (BJRI) This Year?
BJ's Restaurants (BJRI) has significantly outperformed the Retail-Wholesale group and its specific industry (Retail - Restaurants) year-to-date, with a 45.4% return compared to the group's 4.3% loss and the industry's 14.9% loss. The company currently holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) due to improving analyst sentiment and earnings outlooks. Starbucks (SBUX) is another Retail-Wholesale stock that has shown strong performance within the sector this year.
Is Q3 Earnings Preview Altering The Investment Case For Domino's Stock?
Domino's Pizza, Inc. was recently removed from the FTSE All-World Index due to weaker same-store sales and flat free cash flow. The upcoming Q3 earnings report on October 13 will be a key short-term catalyst to see if new strategies can stabilize traffic and improve financial metrics. While analysts project an increase in Q3 earnings per share, the company faces risks if weak demand and flat free cash flow persist, especially given its already stretched balance sheet.
Keurig Dr Pepper embraces cold-coffee trend with global concentrates launch
Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) is launching a liquid espresso concentrate for in-home consumption globally, capitalizing on the surging popularity of cold coffee, particularly among younger consumers. The new product will come in three flavors – Pure Black, Sweet Caramel, and Rich Mocha – and will be available in 20 countries under brands like L'OR, Jacobs, Kenco, and Douwe Egberts. This move follows similar initiatives by other manufacturers like Nestlé, demonstrating a broader industry trend towards expanding the cold coffee market.
Starbucks stock faces 250 store closures as openings fall to 440
Starbucks plans to close 250 North American stores and reduce its fiscal 2026 net new openings to 440 from an original range of 600-650, leading to an estimated $300 million in restructuring charges. This strategic shift focuses on improving store productivity and profitability of existing locations rather than aggressive expansion. Despite a 1.40% year-over-year revenue decline, the company reported better-than-expected adjusted earnings per share and revenue for the fiscal third quarter.
Starbucks Faces Shareholder Pressure to Restore Labor Relations Oversight Committee
Starbucks is facing renewed investor pressure to reinstate a board committee focused on labor relations. New York City's comptroller, along with other investors, filed a shareholder proposal advocating for the return of the oversight committee, citing labor relations as a significant risk area. Despite the ongoing labor disputes and unionization efforts, Starbucks' stock performance has remained strong, though the unresolved labor issues pose a potential threat to future growth.
McDonald’s Serves Fast Food with Fast Wi-Fi
A recent report by Ookla found that McDonald's offers the fastest and most consistent Wi-Fi among major quick-service restaurants, outperforming competitors like Starbucks significantly. Despite still largely using Wi-Fi 5, McDonald's provides free high-speed internet in more locations globally than any other QSR. This commitment to fast Wi-Fi demonstrates McDonald's prioritization of customer experience alongside business competition.
Is T.J. Maxx Closing Stores? Here’s What We Know
Rumors have circulated about T.J. Maxx closing stores in the US, but these are isolated incidents rather than a widespread closure plan. While a few specific locations did close in 2026, the company actually increased its total number of T.J. Maxx stores in the U.S. that fiscal year. TJX Companies, the parent company, continues to expand globally, operating over 5,000 stores across various brands.
Starbucks' Ongoing Brand Investment Is Luring Consumers Back to Its Banners
Starbucks is actively restoring its brand clout and improving profitability through strategic investments in customer experience, atmosphere, service, advertising, and product innovation. These efforts are expected to reverse recent sales declines, with Morningstar projecting a return to positive comparable sales growth in fiscal 2026 for the company. This pivot addresses prior struggles with intensifying competition and a perceived weakening value proposition.
Groundbreaking ceremony held for Starbucks, Texas Roadhouse in North Manheim
A groundbreaking ceremony was held for new Starbucks and Texas Roadhouse locations at Indian Rock Landing in North Manheim Township, Schuylkill County. This development transforms a site previously considered an eyesore into a new commercial hub, with both national chains anticipated to open in 2027. Local officials and developers celebrated the project, expecting it to spur further economic growth in the region.
Shareholder groups press Starbucks to restore labor committee, cite lack of union contract
Shareholder groups are intensifying pressure on Starbucks to address its ongoing labor disputes by urging the reinstatement of a board committee focused on labor relations. This move comes as the company continues to operate without a union contract nearly five years after the first store unionized. The proposal highlights labor relations as a significant risk to CEO Brian Niccol's turnaround efforts, despite Starbucks' claims of providing the "best job in retail."
Can McDonald's Beverage Expansion Become Its Next Global Growth Wave?
McDonald's is expanding its beverage platform globally, with encouraging early results showing incremental traffic during underutilized dayparts and higher average checks. The company sees this as a significant growth opportunity, with rivals like Starbucks and Chipotle also focusing on beverage innovation. Despite recent stock underperformance, McDonald's plans to continue rolling out its beverage concepts to more markets, aiming for sustained growth.
Shareholder groups press Starbucks to restore labor committee, cite lack of union contract By Reuters
Shareholder groups are intensifying pressure on Starbucks to reinstate a dissolved committee responsible for overseeing labor relations. This move comes as the company continues to lack a union contract with baristas, nearly five years after initial organizing efforts. Investors argue that the ongoing labor issues pose a significant risk to Starbucks' turnaround efforts and long-term stability.
Cohen & Steers REIT Acquires Phoenix Shopping Center
Cohen & Steers Income Opportunities REIT Inc., in a joint venture with Sterling Organization, has acquired Grand Canyon Crossing, a 303,000-square-foot shopping center in Phoenix. The property, anchored by a high-performing Walmart Supercenter, was previously owned by Goldman Sachs Asset Management and is 99 percent occupied. This acquisition comes amidst a strong Phoenix retail market characterized by falling vacancy rates and rising asking rents.
Starbucks Scales Back Environmental Goals
Starbucks has announced a significant scaling back of its environmental commitments, including targets for waste, water usage, and virgin plastic reduction, as part of a $2 billion turnaround strategy. The company is also reassessing its goal to reduce global carbon emissions by 50% by 2030, citing regulatory changes and operational challenges. Despite previously setting ambitious resource-positive goals in 2020, Starbucks faces increased Scope 3 emissions and financial pressures, leading to a pivot in its sustainability roadmap.
