Core Viewpoint - Investors are seeking growth stocks that can deliver above-average growth and exceptional returns, but identifying such stocks is challenging due to their inherent risks and volatility [1] Group 1: Growth Stock Identification - The Zacks Growth Style Score simplifies the process of finding promising growth stocks by analyzing a company's real growth prospects beyond traditional metrics [2] - Hennes & Mauritz AB (HNNMY) is currently recommended due to its favorable Growth Score and top Zacks Rank [2] Group 2: Earnings Growth - Earnings growth is crucial for investors, with double-digit growth being a strong indicator of a company's potential [3] - Hennes & Mauritz has a historical EPS growth rate of 7.4%, but projected EPS growth for this year is 23.3%, significantly higher than the industry average of 17.1% [4] Group 3: Asset Utilization - The asset utilization ratio, or sales-to-total-assets (S/TA) ratio, is an important metric for growth stocks, indicating how efficiently a company generates sales from its assets [5] - Hennes & Mauritz has an S/TA ratio of 1.35, outperforming the industry average of 1.34, indicating better efficiency in asset utilization [5] Group 4: Sales Growth - Sales growth is another critical factor, with Hennes & Mauritz expected to achieve an 8.3% sales growth this year, compared to the industry average of 3.9% [6] Group 5: Earnings Estimate Revisions - Positive trends in earnings estimate revisions correlate strongly with stock price movements, making this a valuable metric for investors [7] - Hennes & Mauritz has seen a 5.7% increase in current-year earnings estimates over the past month, indicating positive momentum [8] Group 6: Overall Positioning - Hennes & Mauritz holds a Zacks Rank of 2 and a Growth Score of A, positioning it well for potential outperformance in the market [10]

Core Viewpoint - Growth stocks are appealing due to their potential for above-average financial growth, but identifying strong candidates can be challenging due to inherent risks and volatility [1] Group 1: Company Overview - Tapestry (TPR) is highlighted as a recommended growth stock with a favorable Growth Score and a top Zacks Rank [2] - The company is recognized for its high-end shoes and handbags, making it a strong growth pick currently [3] Group 2: Earnings Growth - Tapestry has a historical EPS growth rate of 17.1%, with projected EPS growth of 23.8% this year, surpassing the industry average of 17.1% [5] - Earnings growth is crucial for investors, as double-digit growth often indicates strong future prospects [4] Group 3: Cash Flow Growth - Tapestry's year-over-year cash flow growth stands at 10.6%, significantly higher than the industry average of -1.1% [6] - The company's annualized cash flow growth rate over the past 3-5 years is 21.2%, compared to the industry average of 7.6% [7] Group 4: Earnings Estimate Revisions - The current-year earnings estimates for Tapestry have increased by 13% over the past month, indicating a positive trend in earnings estimate revisions [9] - Positive earnings estimate revisions are correlated with near-term stock price movements, validating the stock's potential [8] Group 5: Conclusion - Tapestry has achieved a Growth Score of A and a Zacks Rank 1, suggesting it is a potential outperformer and a solid choice for growth investors [10][11]

Core Insights - Federated Hermes, Inc. (FHI) shares reached an all-time high of $56.68, closing at $54.88, reflecting strong investor confidence due to growth in assets under management (AUM) and robust strategic positioning [1][8] Performance Overview - Over the last six months, FHI stock increased by 5.7%, while the industry declined by 12.9%, outperforming peers like Ares Management Corporation (ARES) and T. Rowe Price Group (TROW) [2] Growth Drivers - **Strategic Business Expansion**: FHI is accelerating growth through strategic acquisitions, including an 80% stake in FCP Fund Manager, L.P. to enhance its private markets capabilities [6] - **Acquisition History**: The company has made several acquisitions, such as C.W. Henderson & Associates, Inc. in 2022, to diversify revenue streams and strengthen its global footprint [7] - **AUM Growth**: FHI's AUM grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% over five years, reaching $902.6 billion by December 2025, driven by record money market assets and increased equity holdings [10] - **Money Market Strength**: Money market assets grew at a five-year CAGR of 10.2%, providing a broader range of fund options and favorable market conditions for money market strategies [11] Financial Stability - **Robust Balance Sheet**: As of December 31, 2025, FHI had long-term debt of $348.4 million and cash and investments totaling $724.3 million, indicating strong liquidity and manageable debt levels [12] - **Capital Distribution**: The company has a history of rewarding shareholders through share buybacks and dividends, with a recent 9.7% increase in its quarterly dividend to 34 cents per share [14] Challenges - **Rising Operating Expenses**: Operating expenses have a five-year CAGR of 4.5%, primarily due to intangible asset-related costs, which could increase further with new hires [15] - **Revenue Concentration Risk**: Investment advisory fees account for 65% of total revenues, making the company vulnerable to fluctuations in market conditions [18] Earnings and Valuation - **Earnings Estimates**: The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a 1.8% rise in 2026 earnings and a 10.9% rise in 2027 earnings, with upward revisions over the past month [19] - **Valuation Metrics**: FHI is trading at a trailing P/E ratio of 10.66X, lower than the industry average of 13.96X, indicating it may be undervalued compared to peers [21][23] Investment Consideration - The strong rally in FHI shares reflects confidence in its strategic growth initiatives and financial position, with ongoing expansion and a solid balance sheet enhancing shareholder value [25]

Key Takeaways CMG is expanding AI tools to personalize outreach and re-engage less-frequent users.Chipotle uses data analytics to tailor offers through its loyalty and mobile platforms.CMG aims to lift digital sales and member visit frequency with targeted engagement.Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (CMG) is expanding its use of artificial intelligence within its digital platform, with a focus on strengthening customer engagement. The company stated that AI-driven tools are being used to support personalized co ...

Key Takeaways Dutch Bros posted 7.7% Q4 same-shop sales growth, driven by 5.4% transaction gains.Order Ahead made up 14% of Q4 transactions as loyalty reached 72% of system sales.Dutch Bros sees 3%-5% same-shop sales growth in 2026 with 181 new shops planned.Dutch Bros Inc. (BROS) exited 2025 with higher digital engagement embedded in its predominantly drive-thru operating model. During the fourth quarter, Order Ahead represented approximately 14% of system transactions, reflecting increased customer use of ...

Core Insights - Citizens Financial Group (CFG) has agreed to acquire substantially all assets of Matrix Capital Markets Group, enhancing its advisory capabilities in the Downstream Energy & Convenience Retail sector [1][4][10] Acquisition Details - The acquisition will be executed by Citizens JMP Securities, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of CFG, and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals [3] - The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed [3] Strategic Rationale - The acquisition aims to broaden CFG's advisory coverage and strengthen its ability to deliver tailored capital markets solutions by integrating Matrix's experienced bankers and client relationships [4] - This move is part of CFG's long-term strategy to diversify revenue streams beyond traditional lending, with a focus on generating fee-based income [5] Financial Performance - CFG's non-interest income rose 10% year over year to $2.39 billion in 2025, with projections for further growth of 6-8% in 2026 [5] - The acquisition is expected to enhance fee-based income and support revenue diversification and long-term growth [5] Industry Trends - The deal reflects a broader trend among regional banks to expand their capital markets and advisory platforms for revenue diversification [6] - Similar acquisitions in the industry, such as Huntington Bancshares acquiring strategic business units from Janney Montgomery Scott, highlight the focus on scaling advisory operations [6] CFG's Previous Acquisitions - CFG has a history of expanding its advisory business through strategic acquisitions, including JMP Group in 2021 and Bowstring Advisors in 2019 [7] - The company has also pursued broader growth initiatives, such as acquiring Investors Bancorp and branches from HSBC Holdings, to strengthen its market presence [8] Market Performance - Over the past six months, CFG's shares have increased by 34.5%, outperforming the industry's growth of 18.6% [11]

Core Insights - Moving iMage Technologies, Inc. (MITQ) shares have declined 6.4% since the earnings report for the quarter ended December 31, 2025, underperforming the S&P 500 index's 1.5% decline during the same period [1] - The stock has fallen 16.2% over the past month compared to a 1.9% drop in the broader market, indicating a cautious investor sentiment despite improvements in quarterly performance [1] Financial Performance - For Q2 fiscal 2026, MITQ reported a net loss of $0.04 per share, an improvement from a loss of $0.05 per share in the same quarter last year [2] - Revenues increased by 10% year over year to $3.8 million from $3.4 million, while gross profit rose 24% to $1.2 million, with gross margin expanding to 30.7% from 27.2% [2] - Operating loss narrowed to $0.4 million from $0.6 million in the prior-year quarter, and net loss also narrowed to $0.4 million from $0.5 million [3] Key Business Metrics - MITQ ended the quarter with approximately $4.5 million in working capital, including net cash of $3.9 million and no debt [4] - Cash decreased from $5.7 million at June 30, 2025, to $3.9 million at December 31, 2025, primarily due to a $1.5 million cash outlay for the DCS loudspeaker line acquisition and increased inventory levels [4] - Inventory rose to $3.1 million at quarter-end from $2.1 million at June 30, 2025 [4] Operating Expenses - Operating expenses increased by 5.1% year over year to $1.6 million, mainly due to higher legal expenses [5] - Despite the rise in expenses, improved gross profit helped narrow operating losses, although operating cash flow showed a net use of $1.8 million for the six months ended December 31, 2025, compared to positive cash flow of $0.04 million in the prior-year period [5] Management Commentary - The Chairman and CEO described the second quarter as productive, highlighting a 10% revenue growth during a typically slower period for exhibitors [6] - There is cautious optimism about a rebound in domestic box office receipts in calendar 2026, driven by continued demand for immersive and premium large-format cinema experiences [6] Strategic Developments - The acquisition of the DCS loudspeaker line for $1.5 million is expected to enhance MITQ's proprietary product offerings and expand its international footprint [7][12] - The company has signed distribution agreements with over 25 cinema equipment dealers across various regions, promoting DCS in more than 50 countries [7] Factors Influencing Performance - Revenue growth was supported by steady order flow for parts, replacement products, and higher-margin proprietary offerings during a typically slower exhibition period [8] - Gross margin expansion was attributed to a higher percentage of product revenues and operational execution, while operating expenses were pressured by elevated legal costs [8] Guidance - Management anticipates third-quarter fiscal 2026 revenues of approximately $3 million, reflecting customary seasonality and initial ramp-up in DCS-related sales [11] - Gross margin percentage is expected to return to prior-year lower levels according to management commentary [11]

Market Overview - Market leadership has broadened with capital flowing into cyclical industrial, materials, and energy-adjacent businesses, indicating a rotation beneath the surface of mega-cap technology dominance [1] - The current environment rewards investors who look beyond obvious names, with Zacks Rank being an effective tool for identifying outperforming stocks [2] Kaiser Aluminum - Kaiser Aluminum benefits from aerospace recovery and industrial demand, operating at the intersection of aerospace, industrial manufacturing, and specialty materials [3] - The aerospace segment is a key driver, with historically elevated aircraft production backlogs supporting demand for high-performance aluminum products [4] - Analyst revisions for Kaiser Aluminum have increased, with current quarter estimates up by over 15% and next year's earnings by 9.3% in the last week, leading to a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) rating [7] Forum Energy Technologies - Forum Energy Technologies is positioned well within the global energy investment cycle, providing equipment and technology for oil, gas, and energy infrastructure markets [8] - The current environment is characterized by disciplined production growth and sustained infrastructure investment, favoring service and equipment providers [9] - Earnings outlook for Forum Energy Technologies has improved, with forward estimates strengthening as order activity increases, supporting its top Zacks Rank [10] Fresnillo - Fresnillo is a major player in the precious metals market, benefiting from strong silver and gold prices, with the company being one of the largest primary silver producers [11] - The improving commodity environment has led to stronger earnings expectations, with analyst estimates rising as realized pricing improves [12] - Larger producers like Fresnillo benefit disproportionately from rising metals prices due to their operational scale, allowing for efficient margin gains [13] Investment Opportunities - Kaiser Aluminum, Forum Energy Technologies, and Fresnillo represent diverse opportunities in aerospace recovery, global energy investment, and strength in precious metals, respectively [16] - All three companies currently hold a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) driven by improving earnings outlooks and positive price trends, highlighting strong momentum opportunities outside crowded trades [17]

Core Viewpoint - Investors are encouraged to consider Applied Materials (AMAT) due to recent improvements in earnings estimates and positive stock momentum [1][10] Earnings Estimate Revisions - The trend in earnings estimate revisions reflects growing analyst optimism regarding Applied Materials' earnings prospects, which is expected to positively influence its stock price [2] - The current-quarter earnings estimate is $2.55 per share, representing a +6.7% change from the previous year [6] - Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Applied Materials has increased by 17.08%, with five estimates moving higher and no negative revisions [6] - The full-year earnings estimate is projected at $10.63 per share, indicating a +12.9% change from the prior year, with seven estimates moving higher and no negative revisions [7] Zacks Rank - Applied Materials currently holds a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), indicating strong potential for outperformance based on the positive estimate revisions [9] - Stocks with Zacks Rank 1 and 2 have historically outperformed the S&P 500 [9] Stock Performance - Applied Materials shares have increased by 12.9% over the past four weeks, suggesting strong investor confidence in its earnings growth prospects [10]

Core Viewpoint - Fastly (FSLY) shows a significant improvement in earnings outlook, making it an attractive investment option as analysts continue to raise earnings estimates for the company [1][2]. Earnings Estimates - Analysts' optimism regarding Fastly's earnings prospects is driving higher estimates, which is expected to positively impact the stock price [2]. - The consensus earnings estimate for the current quarter is $0.08 per share, reflecting a year-over-year increase of +260.0% [5]. - For the full year, the earnings estimate is projected at $0.26 per share, indicating a +100.0% change from the previous year [6]. Estimate Revisions - Over the past 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Fastly has increased by 31.08%, with four estimates raised and no negative revisions [5]. - For the current year, five estimates have been revised upward, contributing to a 23.03% increase in the consensus estimate [6][7]. Zacks Rank - Fastly has achieved a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) due to favorable estimate revisions, indicating strong potential for outperformance [8]. - Stocks with Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) and 2 (Buy) have historically outperformed the S&P 500 [8]. Stock Performance - Fastly shares have increased by 101.1% over the past four weeks, suggesting strong investor confidence in the company's earnings growth prospects [9].