Hertz Stock Eyes Best Week Ever on Activist Stake

Group 1 - Hertz Global Holdings Inc's stock surged 23.2% to $7.03, following a 56% rally, driven by Bill Ackman's Pershing Square acquiring a significant stake [1] - Pershing Square's stake in Hertz has increased from 4.1% to 19.8%, making it the second-largest shareholder [1] - Hertz's stock is experiencing a historic breakout, with a year-to-date increase of 97.3% in 2025, surpassing its year-over-year breakeven level [2] Group 2 - The stock reached a new 52-week peak of $7.75 during the session [2] - In the options market, there is a high level of put activity, with the put/call open interest ratio in the 77th percentile of annual readings, indicating potential for a shift in sentiment [3] - Unusual trading activity was noted, with 64,000 calls and 79,000 puts exchanged, significantly above average volumes [4] Group 3 - Analysts remain cautious, with all 10 covering Hertz maintaining "hold" or worse ratings, but a shift in sentiment could further boost the stock [5] - Short interest increased by 19%, with 53.13 million shares sold short, accounting for 18% of the total float, indicating potential for a short squeeze [5]