Citizens Capital Markets gains Rheault and Jones, MDs, for syndicate and capital markets biz
Citizens Capital Markets & Advisory has appointed Matt Rheault and Jeff Jones as managing directors in its debt capital markets practice, both previously from Wells Fargo. Jones will lead the firm's asset-backed securities (ABS) and collateralized loan obligation (CLO) capital markets, while Rheault will head the syndicate business. Together, they bring four decades of experience to their new roles, reporting to Jerry Hullinger, head of debt capital markets.
Columbia Threadneedle expands global bond offering
Columbia Threadneedle Investments has launched a new CT (Lux) Global Aggregate Bond fund, repositioning its Asian bond strategy to a global mandate. The fund, managed by Keith Patton, head of global rates,
Here Are Thursday’s Top Wall Street Analyst Research Calls: Abbott Labs, AbbVie, Akamai Technologies, Five Below, Keurig Dr. Pepper, Salesforce, Stryker, StubHub, and More
This article details Wall Street analyst upgrades, downgrades, and initiations for various companies on Thursday, August 13, 2026, following the release of inline CPI data. Key movements include Five Below being upgraded to Buy at Jefferies and StubHub being cut to Underperform at Bank of America. The article also provides a general market overview, including performance of indices, treasury bonds, commodities, and cryptocurrency.
Home Depot CFO and VP Step Up As CEO Takes Medical Leave
Home Depot CEO Ted Decker is taking a temporary medical leave, with CFO Richard McPhail and Senior Executive Vice President Ann-Marie Campbell stepping in to manage the company. Campbell will oversee daily operations, McPhail will handle finances, and Greg Brenneman will serve as board chairman during Decker's absence. Decker is expected to return in the next few months.
Black Hills Energy wants to hike electric rates 32% in northeast Wyoming
Black Hills Energy is requesting a 32% electric rate increase, totaling $5.1 million annually, for its 2,600 customers in northeast Wyoming, primarily around Upton and Newcastle. If approved, this would raise the average residential monthly bill by about $32. The company cites infrastructure upgrades, new generation facilities, increasing costs for coal plants, and rising workforce compensation as reasons for the hike, which is their first base rate increase since 2014. The Wyoming Office of Consumer Advocate recommends a smaller increase of $3.6 million and a lower rate of return for the company.
Dominion Energy seeks approval for fuel cost increase in North Carolina
Dominion Energy is seeking approval from the North Carolina Utilities Commission to increase fuel costs for its customers by February 2027. If approved, North Carolina customers could see an approximate monthly increase of $25.73, with $23.48 attributed to fuel costs and $2.25 covering clean energy initiatives, coal ash pond closures, and demand-side management programs. The company emphasizes it does not profit from fuel costs and aims to keep bills affordable, following a similar rate hike approved in Virginia.
Advanced Drainage’s Q2 Earnings Call: Our Top 5 Analyst Questions
Advanced Drainage (WMS) exceeded Q2 revenue and EPS estimates, driven by strong organic growth and the NDS acquisition, with CEO Scott Barbour highlighting the benefits of a diversified portfolio. The company reconfirmed its full-year revenue and EBITDA guidance. Analysts focused on future EBITDA margins, NDS integration, the flow-through of lower input costs, and the pace of increasing recycled content.
Realty Income Stock And Other Rate Sensitive Dividend Picks To Watch
This article examines three rate-sensitive dividend stocks—Essential Properties Realty Trust (EPRT), Realty Income (O), and W. P. Carey (WPC)—in the context of current inflation reports and Treasury yields. It highlights their unique attributes, including long-term leases, diversified portfolios, and dividend histories, while also pointing out potential risks like leverage, equity issuance, and sensitivity to tenant credit. The piece aims to provide investors with a starting point for identifying income-focused plays that may be affected by interest rate changes.
Moodys Stock And 2 Bond Market Plays If CPI Shifts Rate Cut Expectations
This article discusses three companies—BGC Group, Moody's, and Artisan Partners Asset Management—that are particularly exposed to shifts in interest rate expectations, especially following the upcoming July CPI report. These companies offer various ways for investors to gain exposure to the bond market, from brokerage services to risk assessment and investment management. The piece highlights their financial profiles and potential implications of changing inflation and interest rate environments.
Alexandria Real Estate Sets 7.25% Interest Through Feb. 15, 2032
Alexandria Real Estate Equities (NYSE: ARE) announced the pricing of a public offering of $1 billion in 7.250% Series A fixed-to-fixed reset rate junior subordinated notes due 2057. The notes will bear a 7.250% interest rate until February 15, 2032, after which the rate will reset every five years to the five-year U.S. Treasury Rate plus 2.889%, with a 7.250% floor. The company plans to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes, including debt reduction and property investments, with closing expected around August 21, 2026.
Rising Equity Markets and Improved Flows Have Lifted Cohen & Steers' AUM Levels
Cohen & Steers has experienced a recovery in its assets under management (AUM) over the past couple of years, reaching $102.5 billion by July 2026. This growth is attributed to stronger equity markets and improved flows, despite previous headwinds from higher interest rates and increased competition. However, the current AUM is still 3.9% below its peak level seen at the end of December 2021.
[US Equities] Dow Inc extends losses, down $21, as rising crude oil prices offset receding rate-hike expectations (12th) ☆ Replacement
Dow Inc. experienced a significant loss of $21, extending its downward trend. This decline is attributed to increasing crude oil prices, which are counteracting the positive market sentiment from receding rate-hike expectations. The rising cost of crude oil likely impacts Dow Inc.'s operational costs and profitability.
JACK IN THE BOX INC 3Q 2026: Revenue $257.7M, EPS $1.03— 10-Q Summary
Jack in the Box Inc. reported a decline in third-quarter 2026 results, with revenue at $257.7 million and diluted EPS at $1.03, both down from the previous year. The company faced challenges including lower transactions, rising input costs, and declining same-store sales. Strategic actions included the sale of Del Taco and a focus on asset-light growth initiatives to mitigate these pressures.
Daily Coffee Report 8/12/26
The daily coffee report indicates that Arabica coffee futures consolidated near the lower end of the previous day's range, with support holding above 332.00 for the September contract due to declining certified stocks. The Brazilian real showed volatility before retesting its 200-day moving average. The report also notes the nearing end of fund roll activity and upcoming option expiration.
Hormel Stock And 2 Defensive U.S. Consumer Staples Picks For Dividend Investors
Amidst stubborn inflation and economic uncertainties, this article highlights three defensive U.S. consumer staples stocks—Reynolds Consumer Products (REYN), Bunge Global (BG), and Hormel Foods (HRL)—that offer dividends and relative stability. It analyzes each company's financial profile, market position, and potential for income-focused investors looking for capital preservation. The article suggests these stocks as initial samples from a broader screen of 23 other compelling income and stability stories within the consumer staples sector.
Southern Company (NYSE:SO) Moves With Grid And Rate-Sensitive Sector Themes
Southern Company (NYSE:SO) is trading in line with the broader utility sector, influenced by rising Treasury yields and the anticipation of tomorrow's inflation data. The company is experiencing significant demand growth driven by data centers in the Southeast, particularly Georgia, necessitating substantial investment in grid modernization and nuclear generation capacity. Its diversified energy portfolio and strong regional presence position it to address these evolving market and demand dynamics.
Ciena Corp Stock (CIEN) Moved Up by 12.38% on Aug 12: What Signal Does It Send?
Ciena Corp (CIEN) saw a significant stock price increase of 12.38% on August 12, driven by new network contracts, rising demand for AI infrastructure, and positive macroeconomic sentiment due to cooling inflation. Analysts have issued Buy ratings with an average price target of $588.59, despite ongoing risks like supply chain bottlenecks and high customer concentration. The company's role in high-bandwidth optical transport networks for AI and cloud services is a major factor in its strong performance.
American Century’s Gotelli Talks Key Muni Bonds Opportunity
Joe Gotelli of American Century Investments highlights significant opportunities in the muni bonds market, citing $63 billion in net inflows year-to-date and an attractive valuation backdrop due to higher yields. He emphasizes tax loss harvesting as a key strategy for investors to capitalize on recent market shifts and improve long-term portfolio performance, particularly through actively managed funds like TAXF. Gotelli also notes that intermediate-term muni bonds (10-20 years) offer the most opportune positioning.
Cohen & Steers Expands Active ETF Lineup With Real Assets Fund
Cohen & Steers has launched the Cohen & Steers Real Assets Active ETF (CSRA), an actively managed fund designed to deliver long-term total returns and maximize real returns during inflationary periods. With an expense ratio of 80 basis points, CSRA invests in a diversified mix of global real asset classes including real estate, commodities, natural resources, infrastructure, and precious metals, with an option to include fixed income to manage volatility. This new ETF expands Cohen & Steers' active ETF lineup to seven, offering an all-in-one strategy for inflation defense and diversification.
New Lawsuit Claims Ski Industry Giants Conspired to Inflate Ticket Prices
A new lawsuit has been filed against ski industry giants Vail Resorts, Alterra Mountain Company, and others, alleging they conspired to share confidential information and artificially inflate lift ticket prices by 55 percent since 2020. This suit claims the companies coordinated pricing and avoided competition, leading to overcrowded mountains and reduced quality of experience for consumers. It differs from a previous class-action suit, broadening the scope of alleged collusion to include data sharing on various operational aspects.
The Bull Case For Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (TSE:8306) Could Change Following Record Q1 Profitability And Debt Shelf Filing
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) reported record Q1 2026 results with significant increases in net interest income and net income, driven by higher interest rates and a favorable business mix. This strong profitability, particularly the surge in net interest income, reinforces the bank's earnings-focused investment narrative. While the new debt shelf registration doesn't immediately alter the risk-reward balance, investors should monitor global market exposure and potential rate/currency shifts that could impact future gains.
Nucor (NYSE:NUE) in Focus as Steel Names Draw Attention Before Inflation Data
Nucor (NYSE:NUE) is drawing attention as a prominent steel producer ahead of upcoming inflation data, with equity benchmarks near record highs. Despite thin summer trading volumes and rising Treasury yields, metals have held firm, keeping steel companies like Nucor in focus. The company, known for its diversified, scrap-based electric arc furnace steelmaking, serves various industrial sectors and its performance is closely watched as an indicator for the broader North American steel industry.
What Could Lift American Tower (NYSE:AMT) as S&P 500 Nears Records?
American Tower (NYSE:AMT) is navigating market conditions characterized by rising Treasury yields, which typically challenge real estate investment trusts due to their sensitivity to financing costs. Despite these headwinds, the company benefits from sustained structural demand for wireless connectivity and network densification, driven by increasing mobile data consumption and AI-driven data center growth. The article examines how AMT's long-term contracted revenue streams and global portfolio help it manage interest rate fluctuations, while also highlighting industry trends like energy management and the strategic balance between leverage and growth spending.
Why Is FuelCell Energy (NASDAQ:FCEL) In View as Markets Await the CPI Print?
FuelCell Energy (NASDAQ:FCEL) is drawing market attention as broad US equity markets await the consumer price index (CPI) report for July, with the stock seeing increased activity due to thin summer trading volumes. The article discusses FuelCell Energy's operations in stationary power generation, the broader challenges and trends within the fuel cell sector, and how the company's stock movements often reflect wider sentiment towards speculative energy technology. The current cautious market mood, influenced by climbing Treasury yields and firming oil prices, further highlights the stock as a lens for assessing emerging power technologies ahead of key economic data.
Sprott (SII) Q2 2026 Earnings Call Transcript
Sprott reported its Q2 2026 earnings, detailing a challenging quarter for precious metals with significant price declines in gold and silver, leading to a 15% decrease in AUM to $55.6 billion. Despite these headwinds, the company highlighted strong average AUM growth, increased adjusted EBITDA by 100%, and achieved a 71% adjusted EBITDA margin due to operating leverage. Management emphasized a strategic pivot towards critical materials like uranium and copper, which showed resilience and positive net sales, and discussed the success of new ETF launches in this sector.
Is it Time to Take a Closer Look at Target Maturity ETFs?
Target maturity ETFs offer consistency and interest rate protection, which could be beneficial in the current market environment. These ETFs, like the State Street My2030 Corporate Bond ETF (MYCJ) and the Invesco BulletShares 2030 High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (BSJU), invest in bonds that mature within a specific calendar year, providing defined payouts and reduced interest rate risk as they approach maturity. Given the fluctuating interest rates, advisors and investors might want to consider these products for their fixed income portfolios.
Mizuho Financial Group Inc Stock (MFG) Moved Up by 3.50% on Aug 12: Facts Behind the Movement
Mizuho Financial Group Inc (MFG) stock rose 3.50% due to expectations of a Bank of Japan rate hike, leading to higher bond yields and improved net interest margins for Japanese banks. Strong first-quarter earnings, raised profit guidance, and shareholder-friendly capital policies further boosted investor confidence. Technical indicators show neutral MACD and RSI, with a buy signal from Williams %R, while analysts have a "Strong Buy" rating with an average price target of $12.06.
Perspective: Morning Commentary for August 12
This morning commentary by Arlan Suderman focuses on July's CPI data, which largely met analyst expectations, and geopolitical events impacting markets. Key issues include a significant Ukrainian attack on Russia's Novorossiysk naval base, raising concerns about commodity exports, and China's aggressive military drills near Taiwan. The article also anticipates the highly awaited WASDE crop report, which is expected to provide updated corn and soybean yields and demand estimates.
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc Stock (MUFG) Moved Up by 3.05% on Aug 12: Drivers Behind the Movement
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc (MUFG) saw a 3.05% stock price increase on August 12, driven by several key factors. These include macroeconomic tailwinds from the Bank of Japan's hawkish policy, leading to expanded net interest margins, and strong first-quarter financial results that exceeded expectations. Additionally, strategic initiatives like the expanded structured notes program to broaden international revenue streams contributed to positive market sentiment.
Humana stock (HUM) climbs 3% as 2027 COLA calculations obscure rising medical-cost shortfall
Humana (HUM) stock rose by 3% despite a preliminary 3.1% Social Security COLA for 2027, as the main concern for the Medicare insurer remains rising healthcare expenses, not retiree payments. The company's Q2 2026 results showed increased revenue and adjusted EPS, but a higher insurance benefit ratio highlights pressure from medical inflation. Analysts generally have a "Moderate Buy" rating, with modest upside, emphasizing medical-cost execution and membership growth as key uncertainties.
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc Stock (SMFG) Moved Up by 3.82% on Aug 12: A Full Analysis
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) stock rose by 3.82% due to market expectations of the Bank of Japan's monetary policy normalization and strong first-quarter earnings. Higher interest rates are expected to boost net interest income, and disciplined capital management coupled with positive analyst sentiment further support the stock. However, company-specific risks include stock split recalculation uncertainty, earnings volatility, exposure to monetary policy, and cross-border M&A capital commitment.
First American Financial (FAF) Could Be a Great Choice
First American Financial (FAF) is highlighted as a compelling investment due to its strong dividend profile. The company offers a dividend yield of 3.07% with an annualized dividend of $2.20, having increased its dividend five times over the past five years. Additionally, FAF is expected to see significant earnings growth, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate of $7.02 per share for 2026, representing a 16.03% year-over-year increase.
This Fidelity Dividend ETF Was Built for Rising Rates. Three Fed Cuts Later, Investors Own the Wrong Tool
The Fidelity Dividend ETF for Rising Rates (FDRR), designed for periods of increasing interest rates, is now misaligned with the current market after three Fed rate cuts brought rates down to 3.75%. Despite its original mandate being obsolete, the ETF's annual distributions have grown since 2022. However, with about 32% of its holdings in tech mega-caps like NVIDIA and Apple, it delivers more large-cap growth beta than rate protection, and its modest 2% yield is lower and less steady than alternatives like the iShares Select Dividend ETF (DVY).
Why is Proficient Auto Logistics stock rallying today?
Proficient Auto Logistics (PAL) stock is rallying due to the imminent closure of its $130 million acquisition of Hansen & Adkins, which will make the combined entity the largest finished vehicle logistics provider in North America. The rally is further supported by Stifel maintaining a Buy rating and raising its price target to $12, along with a benign July CPI report that boosted broader markets. The company's $75 million convertible notes offering also provides the necessary financing for the deal.
Citi's Hollenhorst Weighs Oil Against Domestic Economy
Andrew Hollenhorst, chief US economist at Citi, discussed inflation and its potential impact on market expectations with Bloomberg's Vonnie Quinn. The conversation focused on recent trends in price and labor data.
Douglas Emmett (DEI) Q2 2026 Earnings Call Transcript
Douglas Emmett reported Q2 2026 results, highlighting strong leasing activity with 960,000 square feet of office leases and positive absorption. The company acquired a medical office portfolio and refinanced significant debt, but revised its full-year guidance downward due to higher market interest rates despite improved operating income. Management emphasized ongoing efforts in office and residential development and opportunistic acquisitions in the current market.
Nasdaq Surges 150 Points; US Inflation Rate Slows To 3.4% In July
U.S. stocks saw a positive trend with the Nasdaq Composite gaining 150 points, while the Dow and S&P 500 also rose. This comes as the U.S. inflation rate, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), slowed to 3.4% year-over-year in July, aligning with economist expectations and decreasing from June's 3.5%. Key sectors like information technology saw gains, while healthcare declined, and several stocks experienced significant movements, including OFA Group and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory surging, and Planet Green Holdings Corp and Silexion Therapeutics Corp seeing drops.
Alkermes amends credit agreement to reduce interest rates on term loans
Alkermes plc announced an amendment to its existing credit agreement, which will reduce interest rate spreads on its senior secured term loan facilities. The interest rate spread for the TLA Facility is reduced by 0.75%, and the spread for the TLB Facility is reduced by 0.50%. This change aims to lower borrowing costs for the company.
Three Reasons Why Bitcoin Adoption Will Keep Rising
Grayscale's Head of Research, Zach Pandl, outlines three key reasons why Bitcoin adoption is expected to continue rising in the medium- to longer-term, despite recent market fluctuations. These reasons include unchecked government deficits leading to inflation and currency debasement, the increasing ubiquity of blockchain technology through stablecoins and tokenization, and a generational shift in portfolio construction among younger investors who favor digital assets. The article concludes that the Bitcoin bear market has not altered the expectation for sustained adoption.
Nebius, CoreWeave, Lumentum, Quantinuum, Super Micro, and More Stocks That Explain Today’s Market
Stocks, including those of companies like Nebius, CoreWeave, and Super Micro, rose on Wednesday. This market surge followed a July consumer-price inflation report that met expectations and strong tech earnings, which collectively boosted the broader market. The article highlights several key companies whose stock performance reflects the day's market trends.
Asking the Right Questions - Raymond James - Commentaries
This article from Raymond James questions the common investor focus on perfectly timing interest rate peaks. It argues that due to the unpredictable nature of interest rate movements, a more practical approach is to leverage current attractive yields from high-quality bonds to secure long-term financial goals, rather than waiting for an elusive market peak. The author emphasizes that successful long-term planning prioritizes aligning available opportunities with defined objectives over perfect timing.
Here Are Wednesday’s Top Wall Street Analyst Research Calls: The Gap, Genmab, Hilton Worldwide, Intuitive Surgical, Marriott International, Merck, Novo Nordisk, Okta, and More
This article provides a rundown of top Wall Street analyst research calls for Wednesday, August 12, 2026, featuring upgrades, downgrades, and new initiations for various companies like Hilton Worldwide, The Gap, Intuitive Surgical, Merck, and Novo Nordisk. It also covers pre-market stock futures, bond yields, and commodity prices, emphasizing the market's anticipation of July's CPI data and geopolitical tensions affecting oil.
Wedge Capital Management L L P NC Purchases 26,120 Shares of Prudential Financial, Inc. $PRU
Wedge Capital Management L L P NC increased its stake in Prudential Financial (NYSE:PRU) by 8.7% in the second quarter, acquiring 26,120 additional shares, bringing its total holding to 325,257 shares valued at $35.1 million. This increase comes as Prudential reported strong Q2 earnings of $4.08 per share, exceeding estimates, despite revenue falling short. Analysts maintain a cautious outlook with a consensus "Reduce" rating for PRU, despite several price target increases.
Nasdaq Futures Climb as CoreWeave and Super Micro Provide a Boost, U.S. Inflation Data in Focus
Nasdaq futures rose due to strong earnings from cloud-computing company CoreWeave and server maker Super Micro Computer, reigniting enthusiasm for AI infrastructure stocks. Investors are now awaiting key U.S. inflation data for July, with expectations of an easing in both headline and core CPI, which could influence the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions. While AI stocks advanced, other sectors like software and certain S&P 500 components saw declines, and global markets reacted to inflation data and corporate earnings.
RXO (RXO) Gets A Valuation Reset As Weaker Jobs Data Lifts Growth Stock Outlook
RXO (RXO) is experiencing a valuation reset, gaining attention from traders after weaker July jobs data reduced expectations for Federal Reserve rate hikes, thereby benefiting growth stocks. Despite a recent 30-day share price pullback of 18.2%, the company still shows strong momentum with a 67.3% year-to-date return. The article discusses RXO's valuation, noting it trades below the average analyst price target and is close to fully priced based on a DCF model, but appears undervalued using a sales multiple comparison against industry peers.
Clorox (CLX) Looks 6% Overvalued Following Earnings And 2027 Guidance
Clorox (CLX) recently reported full-year 2026 results with reduced sales and earnings, alongside 2027 guidance incorporating the GOJO acquisition and a dividend increase. While the stock has seen recent gains, it remains down over the past year. Valuation models present mixed signals, with one narrative suggesting Clorox is 6% overvalued at $101.71, while a DCF model indicates it is significantly undervalued.
Bitcoin Above $65,000 Has These Crypto Linked Stocks Back On Watch
With Bitcoin surpassing $65,000 and shifting market sentiments influenced by U.S. inflation data and jobs reports, crypto-linked stocks are drawing renewed attention. This article spotlights Bitmine Immersion Technologies (BMNR), Exodus Movement (EXOD), and Digi Power X (DGXX), examining how current market conditions could impact each company's prospects. It details their operations, market positions, and the opportunities and risks associated with their exposure to the cryptocurrency sector.
At £7.10, should I buy Aviva shares today?
The article discusses whether Aviva shares are a good buy today, highlighting their 80% growth over five years and a 5.5% dividend yield. It attributes Aviva's recent success to rising interest rates boosting the pension risk transfer market and CEO Amanda Blanc's efforts to reshape the business, including the acquisition of Direct Line. The author plans to closely watch Aviva's upcoming Q2 2026 results, particularly general insurance premiums and commercial lines growth, and expresses increasing bullishness on the stock for a passive income portfolio.
BBVA: Good Operating Performance, But The Valuation Is Too High (NYSE:BBVA)
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A. delivered strong Q2 2026 results with robust loan growth and a 23% YoY increase in net interest income, achieving a 21% ROE and €3 billion net profit. Despite this operational strength, the article suggests that the current 2.45x P/BV valuation is too high compared to peers, indicating that the premium valuation already accounts for peak profitability. Consequently, the analyst has upgraded BBVA to a 'Hold' rating, advising that better value might be found in other European banks with lower valuations and higher yields.
TIPC Dividend: 7.67% Yield, $5.61/Share — History & Dates
Northern Trust 2045 Inflation-Linked Distributing Ladder ETF (TIPC) currently offers a 7.67% dividend yield, distributing $5.61 per share annually. The ETF has been paying dividends since 2025, but its 5-year and 10-year dividend growth rates are 0%, indicating flat or negative growth recently. The payout ratio is 0, suggesting potential for future dividend sustainability.
