Industry Overview - The Zacks Foreign Banks Industry includes overseas banks operating in the U.S., supervised by the Federal Reserve, providing a range of financial services to both individual and corporate clients [3] - The industry has been undergoing restructuring to improve efficiency, focusing on higher-growth segments like wealth management and digital platforms [4][5] Key Themes Influencing the Industry - Continued restructuring efforts are enhancing revenue quality and improving net interest margins, leading to more stable fee-based income streams [4][5] - Lower interest rates from central banks are expected to stimulate borrowing and reduce funding costs, supporting banks' top-line growth [6] - The uneven global economic recovery post-COVID is limiting growth potential, with weak economic performance in some regions affecting profitability [7] Performance Metrics - The Zacks Foreign Banks Industry ranks 23, placing it in the top 9% of over 250 Zacks industries, indicating strong near-term outperformance potential [8][9] - The industry has collectively surged 93% over the past two years, outperforming the S&P 500 and the Zacks Finance Sector [11] Valuation Insights - The industry has a trailing 12-month price-to-tangible book ratio (P/TBV) of 3.45X, significantly lower than the S&P 500's 11.91X, indicating a discount compared to the broader market [15][18] Company Highlights HSBC - HSBC has $3.23 trillion in assets and is focusing on expanding operations in Asia, particularly in wealth management [21] - The bank is winding down non-core operations in various regions while enhancing its presence in Asia and the Middle East [23] - HSBC's shares have risen 35.2% in the past six months, with a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [25] Itau Unibanco - Itau Unibanco is expanding its operations through strategic acquisitions and has a strong presence in Brazil and other Southern Cone countries [28][30] - The bank's shares have gained 42.6% in the past six months, with a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [33] Barclays - Barclays has £1,544.2 billion ($2,106.3 billion) in total assets and is focusing on core businesses through targeted acquisitions and partnerships [36] - The bank's shares have increased by 27.4% in the past six months, with a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) [40]

Core Insights - A study by the American Cancer Society indicates that only about 20% of eligible individuals in the U.S. underwent lung cancer screening in 2024, suggesting a significant opportunity to improve early detection and potentially prevent approximately 62,110 lung cancer deaths over five years [1] Company Developments - Tempus AI, Inc. has partnered with Median Technologies to integrate the eyonis LCS solution into the Tempus Pixel platform, enhancing lung cancer screening capabilities with AI-based software [2] - The company received FDA 510(k) clearance for its Tempus ECG-Low EF software, which identifies patients with low left ventricular ejection fraction [3] - Tempus strengthened its imaging capabilities through the acquisition of Arterys in 2022, integrating AI-driven imaging tools into its ecosystem [4] Peer Updates - GE HealthCare launched the Voluson Performance series and acquired icometrix to enhance its AI-powered brain imaging analysis capabilities [5] - NANO-X IMAGING LTD received CE mark certification for its Nanox.ARC system, which generates tomographic images from a single sweep [6] Stock Performance - Tempus' shares have declined by 14.3% over the past year, while the industry has seen a 33.6% decline, contrasting with a 17.7% increase in the S&P 500 [7] - The company currently trades at a forward 12-month Price-to-Sales (P/S) ratio of 6.45X, above the industry average of 5.66X [11] Earnings Estimates - Tempus AI's loss per share estimate for 2025 has remained unchanged over the past 30 days, with current estimates at -$0.59 for the current year and -$0.21 for the next year [12][13]

Core Viewpoint - Constellation Energy Corporation (CEG) has experienced a 2% share price increase over the past month, underperforming compared to the Zacks Alternate Energy – Other industry's growth of 13% [1] Group 1: Company Performance and Strategy - CEG is positioned to benefit from the increasing demand for data centers, leveraging its nuclear fleet to provide reliable and clean power [1][4] - The company generates nearly 90% of its annual energy output from carbon-free sources, with a goal to achieve 95% carbon-free electricity by 2030 and 100% by 2040 [5] - The recent acquisition of Calpine enhances CEG's growth prospects by expanding its presence in competitive power markets and adding efficient gas-fired assets, which improves earnings diversification and cash flow stability [6][20] Group 2: Financial Metrics and Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CEG's 2026 earnings per share (EPS) has improved by 0.62% over the past 60 days, with a long-term earnings growth rate projected at 15.42% [10] - CEG has a trailing 12-month return on equity of 21.59%, significantly higher than the industry average of 6.39%, indicating effective utilization of shareholder funds [12][14] - The company has an ongoing capital return program, with a board authorization for up to $3 billion in share repurchases, of which approximately $593 million remains as of September 30, 2025 [16] Group 3: Market Position and Valuation - CEG trades at a premium price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio compared to its industry, reflecting its strong market position and growth potential [18] - The company aims to increase its annual dividend by 10%, subject to board approval, further enhancing shareholder value [17]

Core Insights - The global shift towards renewable energy sources is being driven by decarbonization goals, stricter emissions standards, and expanding clean-energy mandates, leading to increased investor interest in companies like NextEra Energy (NEE) and GE Vernova (GEV) [1] Industry Overview - The share of renewable energy in global power generation is rising, replacing fossil fuels and aiding in climate goals. Factors such as long-term power purchase agreements, stable revenue, and advanced technology are enhancing the financial attractiveness of the renewable sector [2] Company Profiles - NextEra Energy is a leading regulated utility and one of the largest renewable energy developers, providing stable earnings and exposure to clean energy growth. GE Vernova focuses on power generation equipment and grid modernization, positioning itself as a key player in electrification and decarbonization [3][18] NextEra Energy (NEE) Highlights - NEE's long-term earnings per share (EPS) growth outlook through 2028 is supported by the addition of renewable assets and strong execution across business segments, projecting a compound annual growth rate of over 8% through 2035 [5][10] - The company plans to add 76.5-107.6 gigawatts (GW) of new renewable capacity from 2026 to 2032, with a current backlog of 29.8 GW in signed contracts [6] GE Vernova (GEV) Highlights - GEV is focused on energy transition, with a diversified portfolio across Power, Wind, and Electrification, serving the entire electricity value chain [7][18] - The launch of GridOS for Distribution in February 2026 aims to enhance utilities' management of distribution grids, increasing recurring software revenue potential. GEV also completed the acquisition of Prolec GE, expanding its North American presence [8] Financial Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NEE indicates a year-over-year EPS increase of 7.82% for 2026 and 8.9% for 2027 [9] - For GEV, the 2026 EPS estimate shows a decline of 21.09%, while the 2027 estimate suggests a recovery with a 55.01% increase [11] Dividend and Valuation - NEE has a current dividend yield of 2.46%, compared to GEV's 0.24%, with the S&P 500 composite at 1.08% [13] - NEE's forward Price/Earnings (P/E) ratio is 22.73X, while GEV's is significantly higher at 55.07X, making NEE more attractive from a valuation perspective [14] Return on Equity (ROE) - NEE's current ROE is 12.18%, while GEV boasts a much higher ROE of 46.91%, indicating different efficiency levels in utilizing shareholders' funds [15] Stock Performance - Over the past six months, GEV shares have increased by 37.9%, while NEE shares have risen by 22.4% [16] Investment Recommendation - Currently, NextEra Energy is favored due to its stronger earnings growth, higher dividend yield, and more attractive valuation compared to GE Vernova, with both companies holding a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [19]

Core Viewpoint - Progress Software (PRGS) shares experienced a significant increase of 10.7% to $40.33, following a period of 14.8% loss over the past four weeks, driven by strong quarterly results and high trading volume [1][2]. Financial Performance - The increase in share price is attributed to solid quarterly results, with recurring revenue from the subscription model and high-margin infrastructure software contributing to margin expansion [2]. - For fiscal year 2025, PRGS completed the integration of its largest acquisition, ShareFile, ahead of schedule, and also integrated Nuclia's agentic RAG technology, enhancing its portfolio [3]. - The upcoming quarterly earnings are projected at $1.57 per share, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 19.9%, with revenues expected to reach $245.51 million, up 3.2% from the previous year [4]. Market Sentiment - The consensus EPS estimate for PRGS has been revised 0.9% higher in the last 30 days, indicating a positive trend that typically correlates with stock price appreciation [5]. - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), while another company in the same industry, ACI Worldwide (ACIW), has a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) and has seen a decline of 6.8% over the past month [6][7].

Core Viewpoint - Investors should closely monitor IBM stock due to significant implied volatility in the options market, particularly for the Feb. 20, 2026 $165 Call option, indicating expectations of a substantial price movement [1] Group 1: Implied Volatility - Implied volatility reflects market expectations for future price movements, with high levels suggesting potential for a significant rally or sell-off [2] - Options with high implied volatility are often sought by traders looking to sell premium, as this strategy can capitalize on time decay [4] Group 2: Analyst Sentiment - IBM currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) within the Computer - Integrated Systems industry, which is in the top 12% of the Zacks Industry Rank [3] - Over the past 60 days, three analysts have raised their earnings estimates for the current quarter, while one has lowered them, resulting in a net increase of the Zacks Consensus Estimate from $1.76 to $1.78 per share [3]

Core Viewpoint - The Supreme Court ruled that President Trump exceeded his authority by imposing global tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which could lead to lower input costs for U.S. companies and reduced trade uncertainty over time [1]. Group 1: Positive Beneficiaries - Apple (AAPL) and Amazon (AMZN) are expected to benefit from the ruling, as Apple has incurred approximately $3 billion in tariffs and has shifted production to reduce exposure to higher tariffs [4]. - The reinstatement of the "de minimis exemption," allowing duty-free imports under $800, will directly benefit Amazon's e-commerce operations [5]. - Apparel retailers like Nike (NKE) and Lululemon (LULU) may also benefit, as they have faced significant supply-chain disruptions due to tariffs and the exemption could help alleviate some of these pressures [7]. - Homebuilders such as Toll Brothers (TOL) and Lennar Corporation (LEN) could see advantages from lower import costs on essential construction materials, which have been a burden due to high material costs [8]. Group 2: Sector-Specific Impacts - General Motors (GM) has faced a substantial tariff burden estimated between $6.1 billion and $7.1 billion annually, while Ford (F) has benefited from foreign tariffs on medium- and heavy-duty trucks [6]. - The Producer Price Index (PPI) for construction has reached an all-time high, indicating increased costs for domestic producers, which could be alleviated by lower import costs [9]. Group 3: Market Reactions - The ruling may lead to short-term stock market volatility, particularly affecting sectors that benefited from tariff protections, such as domestic steel and aluminum producers [2][10]. - Investors are likely to monitor the potential impacts of tariff relief on the global economy and the stock market, with certain stocks poised to benefit from these changes [10].

Group 1 - Recent sentiment towards the Magnificent 7 and software stocks has been negative, leading to significant underperformance in these sectors, primarily due to concerns related to artificial intelligence developments [1][2] - The Magnificent 7 companies, including Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft, are recognized as AI leaders, but there are market concerns regarding their increasing capital expenditures, with Amazon planning to spend $200 billion in capital expenditures by 2026, up from $132 billion in 2025 and $83 billion in 2024 [2][3] - The anticipated peak in capital expenditures for 2026 may be premature, as management emphasizes the critical nature of these investments, which could lead to ongoing spending beyond initial expectations [3] Group 2 - Microsoft has seen a three-month performance decline of 15.5%, while the Magnificent 7 group as a whole has decreased by 2.7%, contrasting with the Zacks Tech sector's growth of 1.8% and the S&P 500's increase of 3.9% [4] - Total earnings for 427 S&P 500 companies that have reported are up 12.8% year-over-year, with revenues increasing by 8.8%, indicating a positive trend in overall market performance [6][18] - Nvidia is expected to report significant growth, with projected Q4 earnings of $1.52 per share on revenues of $65.56 billion, reflecting year-over-year growth rates of 70.8% and 66.7%, respectively [10][12] Group 3 - The Magnificent 7 group's earnings are projected to increase by 24.2% in Q4 compared to the previous year, with revenues expected to rise by 18.9%, following a previous growth of 28.3% in earnings and 18.1% in revenues in Q3 2025 [13] - The Magnificent 7 is expected to account for 25.5% of all S&P 500 earnings in 2025, up from 23.2% in 2024 and 18.3% in 2023, highlighting their growing influence in the market [17] - The overall earnings picture for the S&P 500 indicates double-digit earnings growth is expected in 2025 and 2026, suggesting a positive outlook for the market [28]

Company Performance - Sunrun's stock increased by 1.2% to $20.28, outperforming the S&P 500's gain of 0.69% for the day [1] - Over the past month, Sunrun's stock has risen by 6.82%, which is lower than the Oils-Energy sector's increase of 14.14% and better than the S&P 500's decline of 1% [1] Earnings Expectations - Sunrun is expected to report earnings of -$0.08 per share on February 26, 2026, indicating a year-over-year decline of 105.67% [2] - Revenue is anticipated to reach $656.91 million, reflecting a 26.7% increase compared to the same quarter last year [2] Full Year Estimates - For the full year, analysts project earnings of $1.32 per share and revenue of $2.43 billion, representing changes of -0.75% and +19.22% respectively from the previous year [3] - Recent adjustments to analyst estimates for Sunrun may indicate shifting business dynamics, with positive revisions suggesting a favorable business outlook [3] Valuation Metrics - Sunrun currently has a Forward P/E ratio of 55.03, which is significantly higher than the industry average Forward P/E of 19.42 [5] - The Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has remained unchanged over the past month, and Sunrun holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) [5] Industry Context - The solar industry, part of the Oils-Energy sector, has a Zacks Industry Rank of 80, placing it in the top 33% of over 250 industries [6] - Strong individual industry groups, as measured by the Zacks Industry Rank, tend to outperform weaker groups by a factor of 2 to 1 [6]

Company Performance - Badger Meter (BMI) closed at $159.37, reflecting a decrease of -1.56% from the previous day, underperforming the S&P 500 which gained 0.69% [1] - Over the last month, Badger Meter's shares have decreased by 5.95%, compared to the Computer and Technology sector's loss of 3.66% and the S&P 500's loss of 1% [1] Upcoming Earnings - Analysts expect Badger Meter to report earnings of $1.22 per share, indicating a year-over-year decline of 6.15% [2] - The consensus estimate for revenue is $231.56 million, representing a 4.21% increase compared to the same quarter of the previous year [2] Annual Estimates - For the annual period, Zacks Consensus Estimates project earnings of $5.03 per share and revenue of $968.27 million, reflecting increases of +5.01% and +5.63% respectively from the previous year [3] Analyst Revisions - Recent changes to analyst estimates for Badger Meter are important as they reflect short-term business trends, with positive revisions indicating analyst optimism about the company's profitability [3][4] Zacks Rank - Badger Meter currently holds a Zacks Rank of 5 (Strong Sell), with the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate having moved 5.82% lower over the last 30 days [5] Valuation Metrics - Badger Meter is trading at a Forward P/E ratio of 32.17, which is a premium compared to the industry average Forward P/E of 28 [6] - The company's PEG ratio is currently 2.6, compared to the industry average PEG ratio of 1.99 [6] Industry Context - The Instruments - Control industry, part of the Computer and Technology sector, has a Zacks Industry Rank of 176, placing it in the bottom 29% of over 250 industries [7] - Research indicates that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1 [7]