Block Adds Amazon, QuickBooks, Uber Eats As Partner Ecosystem Nears 1,000
Block (NYSE: XYZ) is expanding its partner ecosystem to nearly 1,000 members, including Amazon, Intuit QuickBooks, and Uber Eats, to enhance offerings for sellers and improve operational efficiency. Despite this expansion, Block's stock is currently underperforming the technology sector, trading below its 20-day and 100-day SMAs with mixed momentum indicators. Analysts have maintained a "Buy" rating with an average price target of $83.50, but recent target adjustments reflect some caution.
PYPL's Transaction Revenues: Will it Pave the Way or Hinder Growth?
PayPal's transaction revenues, primarily from payment processing fees, grew 3% year-over-year to $7.82 billion in Q4 2025, accounting for over 90% of net revenues. Despite this growth, the company expects transaction margin dollars to decline slightly or remain flat in 2026, and its stock is currently trading at a significant discount with a "Strong Sell" Zacks Rank due to downward estimate revisions. Competitors like Block and Payoneer Global also reported revenue growth from transaction-based services.
CleanSpark tops crypto firms with $2B+ market cap in short interest as of mid-February
CleanSpark (CLSK) is currently the most shorted cryptocurrency firm with a market capitalization exceeding $2 billion, as of mid-February. The article highlights the volatility of Bitcoin in February, with prices dropping to their lowest since the FTX collapse in late 2022. It lists several other crypto-related stocks mentioned in this context.
PayPal vs. Block: Which Fintech Stock is a Better Buy Right Now?
This article compares PayPal (PYPL) and Block (XYZ) to determine which is a better investment in the fintech space. While PayPal showed decent fourth-quarter 2025 results and is innovating with AI-driven commerce, its 2026 guidance raises concerns about slowing growth and increased competition. Block, in contrast, shows strong gross profit growth and a robust ecosystem through Square and Cash App, leading the analysis to conclude that Block is currently the stronger, lower-risk pick due to its powerful ecosystem, improving profitability, and long-term potential.
Allianz Asset Management GmbH Reduces Stake in NRG Energy, Inc. $NRG
Allianz Asset Management GmbH significantly reduced its stake in NRG Energy, Inc. by 79.7% in the third quarter, selling 41,128 shares and bringing its total holdings to 10,450 shares valued at $1,692,000. This divestment occurred alongside other hedge funds either initiating new positions or adjusting their stakes in NRG Energy. The article also details recent insider stock sales, analyst ratings, and the company's dividend increase and share repurchase program.
Analysts Have Conflicting Sentiments on These Technology Companies: Block (XYZ) and MNTN, Inc Class A (MNTN)
The article discusses conflicting analyst sentiments regarding two technology companies: Block (XYZ) and MNTN, Inc Class A (MNTN). Macquarie analyst Paul Golding maintained a Hold rating on Block with a $65.00 price target, while Susquehanna's Shyam Patil maintained a Buy rating on MNTN, Inc Class A with a $20.00 price target. Block has an overall "Strong Buy" consensus, whereas MNTN, Inc Class A has a "Moderate Buy" consensus from analysts.
PayPal Issues Disappointing 2026 Outlook, Citing Competitive Pressures and Macro Headwinds; Investigation Probes Timing of Risk Disclosures
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating PayPal Holdings, Inc. following its weaker-than-expected 2026 financial outlook, which projects a decline in transaction margin dollars and significantly decelerated revenue growth. The firm is examining whether PayPal's management timely disclosed material information regarding competitive pressures and macro headwinds, given the substantial drop in share price after the guidance was released. Shareholders who suffered losses are encouraged to contact the firm for a case evaluation.
Tech layoffs hit America: Salesforce, Block eliminate several positions — here’s who’s affected
Salesforce and Block are significantly cutting jobs, impacting thousands of workers, as the tech industry shifts towards AI and efficiency. Salesforce eliminated nearly 1,000 roles, particularly in marketing and product management, while Block cut approximately 1,100 jobs across various departments as part of a multi-year restructuring. These layoffs reflect a "Great Realignment" driven by increased investment in AI and demands for higher revenue per employee, leading to "Agentic displacement" where AI automates tasks previously performed by human workers.
Consensus Cloud Solutions, Inc. (CCSI) Q4 Earnings and Revenues Surpass Estimates
Consensus Cloud Solutions, Inc. (CCSI) reported strong Q4 results, with earnings of $1.41 per share and revenues of $87.07 million, both exceeding Zacks Consensus Estimates. The company has surpassed EPS estimates in the last four quarters and its shares have seen an 8.5% increase year-to-date. Investors are now looking to management's commentary for future stock movement, as the company currently holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Block, Inc. $XYZ Shares Acquired by Principal Financial Group Inc.
Principal Financial Group Inc. significantly increased its stake in Block, Inc. (NYSE:XYZ) by 2,385.3% in Q3, acquiring 587,719 shares to hold a total of 612,358 shares valued at approximately $44.26 million. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating for Block with an average price target of $83.09. The company also reported strong Q3 earnings, beating EPS estimates and achieving $6.11 billion in revenue, with institutional investors now owning 70.44% of the stock.
Shinhan Financial Reports Strong FY Earnings
Shinhan Financial announced strong full-year GAAP EPS of ₩9812.00 and an 8.7% revenue increase to ₩7.02 trillion, driven by loan demand and investment returns. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, anticipating further financial surprises and potential stock price growth. The company also demonstrates a strong commitment to shareholder returns through its dividend performance.
Chime Lawsuit Investigation: Wash. Texts Under Investigation
Attorneys are investigating whether the financial services app Chime violated Washington’s Commercial Electronic Mail Act (CEMA) by sending promotional referral texts without consent. The investigation focuses on Chime's incentivized referral program, which encourages existing users to send pre-populated text messages to friends and family. If a lawsuit is filed and successful, consumers could receive $500 per illegal text and Chime may be forced to alter its referral program in Washington State.
Ark Invest buys the dip in Circle, Bitmine, Bullish shares
Ark Invest has increased its holdings in Circle, Bitmine, Bullish, Coinbase, and Block Inc., capitalizing on price dips in these crypto-related stocks. The firm invested several millions, demonstrating continued conviction in the crypto sector despite broader market declines. CEO Cathie Wood suggests gold's recent rally could foreshadow a new bitcoin bull run.
Should You Buy SoFi Technologies Before Friday's Q4 Earnings?
SoFi Technologies, a digital financial services company, has experienced explosive growth due to its expansion beyond student loans to a full-spectrum digital bank, attracting millions of users. While its stock has performed strongly and analysts maintain a "Hold" rating with a moderate price target upside, the upcoming Q4 earnings report on a Friday introduces uncertainty. Investors are advised to consider the risks of potential volatility despite SoFi's consistent earnings beats, especially given the historical tendency for Friday announcements to coincide with less favorable news.
Pre-Q4 Earnings: Is SoFi Technologies Stock a Portfolio Must-Have?
SoFi Technologies (SOFI) is expected to report strong Q4 2025 earnings with significant growth in Financial Services, Lending, and Technology Platform segments. While the company's stock has performed well over the past year, its valuation is currently elevated, suggesting a more cautious approach for investors. Competitors like Block (XYZ) and Upstart (UPST) might offer better value given their lower Price/Earnings ratios and diversified strategies.
Autodesk to cut 1,000 workers as the tech company bets on AI
Software company Autodesk plans to lay off approximately 1,000 employees, about 7% of its global workforce, as part of a strategic shift towards expanding its leadership in artificial intelligence. While the company stated the cuts are not driven by AI displacing workers, roles in customer-facing sales will be significantly affected, with cost savings reinvested into priorities through fiscal year 2027. This follows previous layoffs in 2025 and positions Autodesk as the latest California tech firm to announce significant job reductions despite an 18% increase in Q3 revenue.
Allstate Corp Makes New Investment in Block, Inc. $XYZ
Allstate Corp recently acquired a new position of 20,469 shares in Block, Inc. (NYSE:XYZ) during Q3, valued at approximately $1.48 million, increasing institutional ownership to 70.44%. Block reported strong Q3 EPS of $0.54 against a $0.25 consensus, with revenues increasing 2.3% year-over-year to $6.11 billion, yet the stock saw a 5% decline. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an average target price of $82.97 despite recent insider share sales.
QRG Capital Management Inc. Decreases Position in PayPal Holdings, Inc. $PYPL
QRG Capital Management Inc. reduced its stake in PayPal Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:PYPL) by 13.1% in the third quarter, selling 25,191 shares to hold 166,877 shares worth $11.19 million. Despite this, other institutional investors increased their holdings, and the article highlights both positive and negative analyst sentiments and recent insider transactions for PayPal. The company's financial performance shows a Q3 EPS of $1.34 and revenue of $8.42 billion, surpassing consensus estimates.
15 Sources of Income That Canadians DON’T Typically Have to Pay Tax On
H&R Block Canada has identified 15 sources of income that Canadians generally do not have to pay tax on, including gifts, inheritances, life insurance payouts, lottery winnings, and TFSA earnings. Despite being tax-free, some of these income streams still need to be declared to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as they can affect eligibility for other credits and benefits. This information is particularly relevant as tax filing season approaches, with many Canadians lacking confidence in navigating tax exemptions.
Strive Secures Landmark Approval for Semler Scientific Acquisition, Skyrocketing Bitcoin Holdings to 12,798 BTC
U.S. asset manager Strive has received shareholder approval to acquire Semler Scientific, a Nasdaq-listed medical technology firm. This acquisition will increase Strive's Bitcoin holdings from 7,750 BTC to 12,798 BTC, making it one of the largest corporate crypto acquisitions of the year. The move highlights a growing trend of traditional finance entities using strategic mergers to gain exposure to digital assets and solidifies Bitcoin's role as a legitimate treasury asset.
Plastic Surgery: Winners and Losers of the Proposed 10% Interest Cap
The article discusses the financial market's reaction to a proposed 10% cap on credit card interest rates, dividing companies into "winners" and "losers." Traditional lenders such as Bread Financial, Synchrony Financial, and Capital One are identified as losers due to their reliance on high APRs for profitability, especially with subprime borrowers. Fintech companies like Progressive Holdings and Block, which utilize alternative models like Lease-to-Own or interchange fees, are seen as winners, alongside large diversified institutions like JPMorgan Chase, Visa, and Mastercard, which have less exposure to consumer lending caps.
Crypto ATM crackdowns are spreading — and Bitcoin Depot stock is in the frame
US cities and states are increasingly imposing regulations, licensing requirements, and bans on crypto ATMs due to a surge in fraud complaints. Despite these crackdowns, Bitcoin Depot shares rose nearly 5%, though the company faces significant regulatory pressure and legal actions, including a $1.9 million settlement in Maine. This trend highlights the challenges for crypto ATM operators navigating a complex and evolving regulatory landscape.
Socket Mobile Launches SocketScan S721, a $199 Next-Generation Bluetooth Scanner for Square iOS Applications
Socket Mobile has launched the SocketScan S721, a new $199 Bluetooth barcode scanner designed for Square's iOS applications and other mobile point-of-sale platforms. This next-generation scanner features improved wireless technology, extended battery life, and enhanced scanning performance at a lower cost compared to its predecessor. It is built for reliable and high-performance data capture in various retail and service environments, integrating seamlessly with applications supporting Socket Mobile's CaptureSDK.
NRG Energy, Inc. $NRG Shares Sold by Nisa Investment Advisors LLC
Nisa Investment Advisors LLC significantly reduced its stake in NRG Energy, Inc. by 49.5% in Q3, selling 73,777 shares, leaving them with 75,197 shares worth approximately $12.18 million. Institutional investors now own about 97.72% of the stock, while company insiders, including VP Robert J. Gaudette and CFO Bruce Chung, have also been active sellers, offloading a total of 192,556 shares worth $30.8 million in the last three months. Despite insider selling, NRG authorized a $3.0 billion share buyback and reported strong Q3 earnings, beating consensus estimates with an EPS of $2.78 against $1.93.
SG Americas Securities LLC Has $5.21 Million Position in NRG Energy, Inc. $NRG
SG Americas Securities LLC significantly increased its stake in NRG Energy, Inc. by 119.9% in Q3, now holding 32,195 shares valued at $5.21 million. NRG Energy has also authorized a $3.0 billion share repurchase program and pays a quarterly dividend of $0.44 per share. Analysts generally have a "Moderate Buy" rating on the stock with a consensus target price of $199.21.
Insider trades: Block, Broadcom, Micron among notable names this week
Insider trading activity was light during the first full trading week of 2026, from January 5 to January 9. Notable transactions included insider sales at tech companies like Broadcom, Micron Technology, Block, Snowflake, and Marvell, while directors at Simon Property Group and Intellia Therapeutics made significant purchases. These insider activities could influence investor sentiment regarding management confidence and company valuations.
Robeco Institutional Asset Management B.V. Has $13.23 Million Position in Wix.com Ltd. $WIX
Robeco Institutional Asset Management B.V. reduced its stake in Wix.com Ltd. by 33.6% in the third quarter, holding 74,452 shares valued at $13.23 million. Despite this, other major institutional investors have increased their positions, bringing the total institutional ownership to 81.52%. Wix.com currently holds a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from analysts with a target price of $167.95, while its shares recently traded around $97.44.
Block Director Neha Narula Reports New Stock Grant and Delegates SEC Filing Authority
Block, Inc. director Neha Narula received a grant of 297 shares of Block Class A common stock, increasing her direct holdings to 13,493 shares. Concurrently, she granted power of attorney to Block's legal and compliance staff for filing SEC ownership reports, emphasizing the company's commitment to regulatory compliance and transparent insider disclosure. The stock (AU:XYZ) currently has a "Hold" analyst rating with a A$98.00 price target.
Block Director Mary Meeker Receives Fully Vested RSU Grant at Fintech Group
Block, Inc. director Mary G. Meeker received a grant of 288 fully vested restricted stock units (RSUs) on January 2, 2026, increasing her direct stake to 421,372 Class A shares. She also holds an indirect interest in 5,817 additional shares. The company, known for Square and Cash App, has a current analyst rating of Hold with a A$98.00 price target.
Block Has Made Progress in Improving Profitability
Block's legacy Square business model, with its efficient client onboarding, innovative point-of-sale devices, flat fees, and integrated software solutions, has allowed the company to reach and retain micro merchants not viable for other acquirers. This strategy has led to Block making progress in improving its profitability. The company's initial success with Square was largely due to expanding the acquiring market rather than taking share from existing players.
Block (XYZ): New Buy Recommendation for This Technology Giant
BTIG analyst Andrew Harte maintained a Buy rating on Block (XYZ) with a $90.00 price target, while KBW also upheld a Buy rating with an $85.00 target. The analyst consensus for Block is a Moderate Buy with a 32.43% upside. Despite strong quarterly revenue of $6.11 billion and a net profit of $461.54 million, corporate insider sentiment for Block is currently negative due to increased selling activity.
Block Executive Ajmere Dale Files to Sell Additional Block, Inc. Shares Under Rule 144
Block, Inc. officer Ajmere Dale plans to sell 423 Class A shares under Rule 144, following the sale of 3,474 shares in the last three months. This ongoing executive share disposal comes after Dale received the shares as restricted stock on January 1, 2026. Investors often monitor such insider sales for insights into executive sentiment and equity activity.
Fiserv Inc.: The Quiet Infrastructure Powering the Future of Digital Payments
Fiserv Inc. operates as a crucial, behind-the-scenes infrastructure provider for digital payments and financial services, leveraging platforms like Clover and Carat to connect banks, merchants, and fintechs. The company differentiates itself through an end-to-end stack, a strong position in the SMB market with Clover, regulatory-grade infrastructure, and strategic positioning in real-time payments. Its mission-critical offerings underpin attractive recurring revenue and long-term contracts, making it a significant player in the evolving landscape of global finance despite fierce competition.
Hennessy Advisors Inc. Buys Shares of 20,000 Block, Inc. $XYZ
Hennessy Advisors Inc. recently acquired 20,000 shares of Block, Inc. (NYSE:XYZ) valued at approximately $1.445 million in the third quarter of 2025. This acquisition makes institutional investors own about 70.44% of the company, while company insiders have been net sellers, offloading over $5.8 million in shares. Block exceeded Q3 EPS estimates and maintains a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from analysts with an average target price of $83.12.
Danaher (NYSE:DHR) Stock Little Changed in Life Sciences Sector
Danaher Corporation's stock remained relatively unchanged in the life sciences sector. The company operates in life sciences, diagnostics, and environmental and applied solutions, with core offerings including analytical instruments and diagnostic systems used in various research and clinical facilities. The article discusses factual insights into Danaher's activities, manufacturing integration, digital systems, and its position within the Russell 1000 index.
All I Want for Christmas Is Four Easy Payments: 'Buy Now, Pay Later' Spend Is Projected To Hit $20 Billion During The 2025 Holiday Season
Spending on "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) services is projected to reach $20.2 billion during the 2025 holiday shopping season, reflecting an 11% increase from the previous year. Despite their growing popularity, particularly for everyday purchases, BNPL services are facing increasing regulatory scrutiny due to concerns about consumer financial strain, hidden fees, and potential debt traps. Lawmakers and financial experts are advocating for more robust consumer protections and better integration of BNPL spending into credit scores to ensure transparency and accountability.
PayPal's Big Step: Is the Launch of PayPal Bank a Game Changer?
PayPal has applied to establish PayPal Bank, a Utah-chartered industrial loan company, aiming to offer small business lending solutions and interest-bearing savings accounts directly. This move would reduce PayPal's reliance on third-party providers and enhance its control over financial products and customer experience. Competitors like Block Inc.'s Square Financial Services and SoFi Technologies' SoFi Bank already provide similar services, indicating a growing trend in financial technology companies entering the banking sector.
7 Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever
Eric Fry recommends "Forever Stocks" as core holdings, suggesting they constitute 25% to 35% of a total portfolio and are meant to be held long-term despite market fluctuations. He highlights seven specific companies: Teradyne, Block, Corning, Equinor, PayPal, Bristol-Myers Squibb, and Royalty Pharma, detailing their unique strengths and growth potential, often emphasizing their strategic positioning in trending sectors like AI, robotics, and digital payments. The article provides an in-depth analysis for each stock, supporting its "buy and hold" recommendation with financial data, market opportunities, and future prospects.
PayPal’s Next Step: Setting up an Industrial Bank to Reduce Third-Party Reliance
PayPal Holdings Inc. is seeking a Utah-chartered industrial loan company to be named PayPal Bank, aiming to enhance its U.S. business-lending services and decrease its reliance on external bank partners. This move would allow PayPal to offer products like merchant credit and savings more efficiently and directly, similar to Block Inc., which secured a similar charter in 2020. While challenging due to regulatory complexities, this initiative is expected to ensure long-term stability and expand access to financial solutions for PayPal's merchants and consumers.
Munro Partners Buys New Holdings in Wix.com Ltd. $WIX
Munro Partners has initiated a new position in Wix.com Ltd. by purchasing 16,200 shares valued at approximately $2.57 million during the second quarter. This move, alongside other institutional buys, highlights continued investor interest, with institutional investors now owning about 81.52% of Wix. Analysts currently rate WIX as a "Moderate Buy" with a consensus target price of $180.05, suggesting significant potential upside from its current share price of $101.87.
Marex Group plc Invests $53.63 Million in Hims & Hers Health, Inc. $HIMS
Marex Group plc recently acquired 1,081,476 shares of Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE: HIMS) totaling approximately $53.63 million, making it their 10th largest holding. Despite this institutional investment, company insiders have been net sellers, with CEO Andrew Dudum and other insiders selling shares worth millions. Hims & Hers reported mixed financial results, missing EPS estimates but exceeding revenue expectations, and announced a $250 million share buyback program.
RBC Capital and TD Cowen Stay Bullish on Block (XYZ)
RBC Capital and TD Cowen have reaffirmed their bullish stance on Block, Inc. (NYSE: XYZ), highlighting its potential for significant gross profit growth. TD Cowen named Block its "Best Idea for 2026," citing the company's strong execution in 2025 and its prospects for improved consistency and hitting future growth targets. Both firms see Block as an appealing investment due to its growth initiatives in Cash App and Square, and its attractive valuation.
RBC Capital and TD Cowen Stay Bullish on Block (XYZ)
RBC Capital and TD Cowen have reaffirmed their bullish stance on Block, Inc. (NYSE:XYZ), with price targets of $90 and $91 respectively. TD Cowen named Block its "Best Idea for 2026," citing potential mid-teens gross profit growth and a 3-year compound annual growth rate of 30% for EPS and cash flow. The firms believe Block's "clean execution" in 2025 and its discounted trading price relative to historical averages make it an attractive investment despite macroeconomic concerns.
Cathie Wood’s ARK sells Tesla stock, buys Robinhood and Block
Cathie Wood's ARK Investment Management has significantly shifted its portfolio, selling 87,993 shares of Tesla Inc. across its ARKK and ARKW ETFs, valued at over $39 million. Concurrently, ARK made notable purchases of Robinhood Markets Inc. and Block Inc. shares, indicating a strategic move towards fintech and digital financial services. The firm also diversified its investments with acquisitions in Deere & Co, L3Harris Technologies Inc, Schrödinger Inc, and Rubrik Inc, while divesting from Teradyne Inc, SoFi Technologies Inc, Iridium Communications Inc, and Ibotta Inc.
Jefferies Reaffirms Their Hold Rating on Chime Financial, Inc. Class A (CHYM)
Jefferies analyst Trevor Williams has maintained a Hold rating on Chime Financial, Inc. Class A (CHYM) with a $19.00 price target, despite a recent upgrade to Buy from Goldman Sachs. The company reported quarterly revenue of $543.52 million and a GAAP net loss of $54.72 million for the quarter ending September 30.
ROSEN, LEADING TRIAL ATTORNEYS, Encourages Block, Inc. Investors to Secure Counsel Before Important Deadline in Securities Class Action - SQ, XYZ
Rosen Law Firm is reminding Block, Inc. investors who purchased Class A common stock between February 26, 2020, and April 30, 2024, of an important lead plaintiff deadline of March 18, 2025, in a securities class action lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges that Block engaged in compliance lapses regarding illicit activities on its Square and Cash App platforms, leading to artificial inflation of user metrics and reputational harm. Investors are encouraged to secure counsel and join the class action to potentially recover damages.
TD Cowen reiterates Block stock as ’Best Idea for 2026’ with $91 target
TD Cowen has reiterated a Buy rating on Block Inc. (NYSE:XYZ), calling it a "Best Idea for 2026" with a $91 target, citing potential for mid-teens gross profit growth through 2026. This positive outlook is based on Block’s "clean execution" in 2025, suggesting the company is on track to achieve its 2026-2028 targets despite macroeconomic uncertainty. Other firms like UBS, Moody's, Needham, and BofA Securities have also provided positive ratings and price target increases, highlighting Block's recent growth and strategic initiatives.
NioCorp to Showcase Elk Creek Project at RedChip Conference
NioCorp Developments Ltd. announced that CEO Mark A. Smith will present at the RedChip Companies Inc. virtual conference on December 10, 2025. The presentation will highlight the Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project and its potential to establish U.S. production of critical minerals like niobium, scandium, and titanium, aiming to enhance the company's industry position. An analyst recently rated NB stock as a Buy with a $9.50 price target.
Halozyme Elects James Lang to Board of Directors
Halozyme (HALO) announced the election of James Lang to its Board of Directors, with his term ending in 2027. Lang's compensation aligns with the company's director program and his appointment involves no special arrangements. TipRanks' AI Analyst, Spark, rates HALO as Outperform due to strong financial performance and positive earnings sentiment, despite some bearish technical indicators and high leverage.
Tornado Infrastructure Equipment Completes Acquisition by The Toro Company
Tornado Infrastructure Equipment Ltd. has finalized its acquisition by The Toro Company, with Toro's affiliate Tornado Acquisition Company ULC purchasing all outstanding Class ‘A’ common shares for $1.92 per share. Consequently, Tornado's shares are slated for delisting from the TSX Venture Exchange, and the company has begun the process to cease being a reporting issuer in several Canadian provinces. This move signifies a major change for Tornado, a leader in the hydrovac truck industry.
