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IonQ's Growth Story Is Just Beginning. Here's What Investors Should Know.
The Motley Fool· 2026-02-08 16:30
Core Viewpoint - IonQ is positioned as the world's only vertically integrated quantum platform provider, with significant potential for growth despite recent stock declines [1][4]. Group 1: Company Overview - IonQ's stock experienced a significant rise in 2025, reaching a 52-week high of $84.64 in October, but has since declined by 14% year-to-date as of February 3, 2026 [1]. - The company claims to have a full-stack quantum platform, covering all essential elements from quantum chip manufacturing to software [4]. Group 2: Strategic Acquisitions - IonQ has expanded its technology through strategic acquisitions, including Skyloom, which enhances its ability to build a scalable quantum computer network [5]. - Other acquisitions, such as SkyWater Technology and Seed Innovations, aim to improve supply chain efficiency and develop AI-powered software for quantum tasks [6][7]. - The acquisition of Oxford Ionics is intended to address calculation errors in quantum computing, a significant barrier to adoption [8]. Group 3: Technological Advancements - IonQ achieved a world record for its quantum machine's accuracy and anticipates increasing its qubit support from 256 in 2026 to over a million by 2030, enhancing computational power [9]. Group 4: Financial Performance - In Q3, IonQ's revenue surged by 222% year-over-year to $39.9 million, indicating strong sales growth [10]. - However, the company reported an operating loss of $168.8 million in Q3, up from a loss of $53.1 million the previous year, due to rising operating expenses [11]. - IonQ faced a net loss of $1.1 billion in Q3 2025, a significant increase from the previous year's loss of $52.5 million, primarily due to warrant liabilities [12]. Group 5: Financial Position - Despite the losses, IonQ maintains a strong balance sheet with $3.5 billion in cash and equivalents and no debt as of November 4, allowing for continued investment in research and development [12][13]. Group 6: Investment Opportunity - The decline in IonQ's stock price presents a potential buying opportunity, as the company is expected to generate sales between $106 million and $110 million in 2025, a substantial increase from $43.1 million in 2024 [14][17]. - IonQ's sales multiple has decreased significantly from its peak valuation, suggesting that while not yet a bargain, the current price may be attractive given the company's growth potential [16].
Is Silver Headed for $200 This Year?
Yahoo Finance· 2026-02-08 16:30
Core Insights - The price of silver reached an all-time high of over $121 per ounce in January 2026 but experienced significant volatility shortly thereafter [2] - A sharp decline of over 30% occurred on January 30, attributed to President Trump's announcement regarding the Federal Reserve's leadership, which negatively impacted silver prices [2][3] - As of February 3, silver was trading around $88 per ounce, indicating a strong correlation between silver prices and investor confidence in the stock market and the Federal Reserve's independence [3] Market Dynamics - Investor concerns about the Federal Reserve's leadership led to an initial rise in silver prices, but with perceived stability, investors began to sell off the asset [4] - Despite the volatility, the iShares Silver Trust has seen a gain of over 12% at the start of the year, outperforming the S&P 500, which only gained around 2% [4] Future Outlook - The potential for silver prices to rise again depends on market sentiment and investor confidence in the new Federal Reserve leadership [5] - There is speculation that silver could reach $200 due to retail investor interest, although a slowdown in price growth is also anticipated given recent trends [6] - The iShares Silver Trust is considered a viable investment for portfolio diversification, but investors should be prepared for associated volatility [6]
Better iShares International ETF: IEFA vs. IXUS
Yahoo Finance· 2026-02-08 16:26
Core Insights - The iShares Core MSCI Total International Stock ETF (IXUS) includes both developed and emerging markets, while the iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF (IEFA) focuses solely on developed markets, providing different investment exposures [1][2] Cost & Size Comparison - Both IXUS and IEFA have an expense ratio of 0.07% - As of January 30, 2026, IXUS has a 1-year return of 37.7% compared to IEFA's 34.9% - IXUS has a dividend yield of 3.2%, while IEFA offers a slightly higher yield at 3.6% - IXUS has assets under management (AUM) of $51.9 billion, whereas IEFA has a significantly larger AUM of $162.6 billion [3][4] Performance & Risk Comparison - The maximum drawdown over five years for IXUS is -30.05%, while IEFA's is -30.41% - An investment of $1,000 in IXUS would grow to $1,305 over five years, compared to $1,353 for IEFA [5] Portfolio Composition - IEFA tracks developed markets in Europe, Australasia, and the Far East, holding 2,589 companies with a sector tilt towards financial services (22%), industrials (20%), and healthcare (11%) [6] - IXUS holds over 4,100 stocks, providing broader diversification with sector allocations leaning towards financial services, industrials, and basic materials, featuring top holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, ASML, and Samsung Electronics [7] Investment Implications - The choice between IXUS and IEFA depends on the desired exposure; IEFA avoids the volatility of emerging markets but limits potential upside during strong emerging market cycles, while IXUS offers broader diversification and exposure to high-growth potential [8]
Eli Lilly Shares Surge on Weight-Loss Drug Momentum. Is It Time to Buy the Stock?
Yahoo Finance· 2026-02-08 16:25
Core Insights - Eli Lilly's share price increased over 30% in the past year following strong sales of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs and positive guidance for 2026 [1] Group 1: Sales Performance - Sales of Mounjaro surged 110% to $7.4 billion in Q4, while Zepbound revenue increased 123% from $1.9 billion a year ago to $4.3 billion [2] - Overall Q4 revenue grew by 43% to $19.29 billion, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) rising 42% to $7.54, exceeding analyst expectations [4] Group 2: Future Guidance - The company projects 2026 revenue between $80 billion and $83 billion, indicating a 25% growth at the midpoint, with adjusted EPS forecasted to range from $33.50 to $35 [5] - Projections for 2026 are significantly above consensus estimates, which anticipated EPS of $33.23 on sales of $77.72 billion [5] Group 3: Product Outlook - Continued strong demand for Mounjaro and Zepbound is expected, potentially enhanced by Medicare coverage later this year [6] - The anticipated approval of orforglipron for obesity in Q2 presents a significant opportunity, as it is an oral medication rather than an injectable, which may attract a larger market [7]
Bitcoin crash sends shock to 401(k) investors
Yahoo Finance· 2026-02-08 16:16
Core Insights - The recent crypto market sell-off significantly impacted various companies, including BlockTrust IRA, which is an AI cryptocurrency retirement platform [1][4] - Bitcoin's price dropped from over $70,000 to as low as $62,000, marking its largest decline since October 2024, which affected market sentiment across the board [2][3] - The volatility of cryptocurrencies raises concerns about their suitability for retirement plans, despite some regulatory changes allowing access to alternative assets [6][7] Company Insights - BlockTrust IRA added $70 million in IRA funds over the past year but faced challenges during the recent market downturn [4] - The firm employs a long-term analytical approach to investment, which has helped it navigate market volatility effectively [5] - The company emphasizes the importance of perspective in investment strategy, particularly in the context of the unpredictable nature of crypto assets [5] Industry Insights - The crypto sell-off has raised questions about the integration of cryptocurrencies into the American retirement system, particularly regarding risk management [6] - Regulatory changes, such as the executive order by President Trump, have opened the door for retirement plans to include digital assets, although concerns about volatility remain [7] - Many retirement plans may already have indirect exposure to cryptocurrencies through investments in publicly traded companies involved in the crypto space [7]
IJJ vs. IWN: Can the Mid-Cap ETF Compete with a Small-Cap Fund?
The Motley Fool· 2026-02-08 16:16
Core Insights - The iShares Russell 2000 Value ETF (IWN) and iShares SP Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF (IJJ) were both launched 20 years ago but have diverged in performance and characteristics [1][2]. Cost & Size Comparison - IWN has an expense ratio of 0.24% and an AUM of $12.59 billion, while IJJ has a lower expense ratio of 0.18% and an AUM of $8.47 billion [3][4]. - The 1-year return for IWN is 18.44%, compared to IJJ's 10.84%, and IWN has a dividend yield of 1.53% versus IJJ's 1.7% [3]. Performance & Risk Comparison - Over the past five years, IWN experienced a maximum drawdown of 26.71%, while IJJ had a lower drawdown of 22.68% [5]. - A $1,000 investment in IWN would have grown to $1,338, whereas the same investment in IJJ would have grown to $1,528 [5]. Portfolio Composition - IJJ focuses on mid-cap value stocks, with significant holdings in financial services, industrials, and consumer cyclical sectors, totaling 311 holdings [6]. - IWN, in contrast, holds a broader array of 1,413 small-cap stocks, with top holdings including EchoStar Corp., Hecla Mining Company, and TTM Technologies, reflecting a wide diversification [7]. Investment Implications - Investors' choice between IWN and IJJ may hinge on their risk tolerance, as small-cap stocks (IWN) are generally more volatile than mid-cap stocks (IJJ) [8][10]. - IJJ has outperformed IWN by over 20% in both the last five years and since inception, making it a more stable option with potential for price gains [10].
7 Billion Reasons to Buy Walt Disney Stock in February
The Motley Fool· 2026-02-08 16:15
Core Viewpoint - Disney's recent post-earnings sell-off presents a significant buying opportunity for long-term investors despite concerns over its streaming service growth and challenges in its cable business [1][2]. Financial Performance - Disney reported solid overall results for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, but there are investor concerns regarding the slower growth of its streaming video on demand (SVOD) service, which is not sufficient to offset declines in its linear networks [2]. - The company is guiding for $19 billion in cash from operations for fiscal 2026, with capital expenditures projected at $9 billion, leaving $10 billion in free cash flow (FCF) for stock buybacks and dividend expenses [5]. Stock Buyback Program - Disney has announced a near-record stock buyback plan of $7 billion for fiscal 2026, which is double the amount from fiscal 2025 and the second-highest annual buyback plan in its history [5]. - The buyback program is expected to reduce the outstanding share count by approximately 67.5 million shares, or 3.8%, which is a significant reduction in a single year [9]. - This strategy reflects management's confidence in the stock's undervaluation and is seen as a more effective way to return cash to shareholders compared to increasing dividends [7][10]. Growth and Valuation - Despite the challenges in growth, Disney is generating consistent high FCF, and its streaming business has become profitable with improving margins [11]. - The company is projected to achieve double-digit adjusted earnings per share growth in fiscal 2026, making it an attractive value stock at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 15.7 [3][11].
Walmart surprises shoppers with bold new restaurant offering
Yahoo Finance· 2026-02-08 16:07
Core Insights - McDonald's has significantly reduced its presence in Walmart stores, closing about 200 locations in 2020, with over half of those being in Walmart [2][3] - Walmart is evolving its food offerings by introducing sushi bars in select locations, aiming to enhance customer perception and compete with regional grocers [5][6] Group 1: McDonald's Presence in Walmart - McDonald's closed approximately 200 restaurants in 2020, with around 100 of those located inside Walmart stores [2] - The decline of McDonald's locations within Walmart has continued, with only about 150 remaining out of over 1,000 that once existed [3] Group 2: Walmart's New Food Offerings - Walmart's new Supercenter in Jacksonville, Florida, features a sushi bar as part of its next-generation store design [5][8] - The introduction of sushi aims to improve Walmart's foodservice offerings and compete with regional grocers known for higher quality prepared foods [6][7] - Walmart plans to remodel and build 150 Supercenter locations to incorporate features like the sushi bar seen in Jacksonville [14] Group 3: Sushi Market Trends - Sushi has become increasingly popular in the U.S., with market research estimating around 16,800 to 17,400 sushi restaurant establishments by 2025 [11] - Sales volumes of sushi at U.S. retailers have increased by over 50% in the past four years, with dollar sales rising approximately 72% [14] - Walmart's sushi offerings include fresh sushi made daily at Sam's Club locations under the Member's Mark brand, emphasizing community involvement [10][9]
Better iShares International ETF: IEFA vs. IXUS
The Motley Fool· 2026-02-08 16:06
Core Insights - The iShares Core MSCI Total International Stock ETF (IXUS) and the iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF (IEFA) provide different exposures to international equities, with IXUS including emerging markets and IEFA focusing solely on developed markets [1][2] Cost and Size Comparison - Both IXUS and IEFA have an expense ratio of 0.07% - As of January 30, 2026, IXUS has a 1-year return of 37.7% while IEFA has a return of 34.9% - IXUS has a dividend yield of 3.2% compared to IEFA's 3.6% - IXUS has assets under management (AUM) of $51.9 billion, while IEFA has $162.6 billion [3][4] Performance and Risk Comparison - Over the past five years, IXUS experienced a maximum drawdown of -30.05%, while IEFA had a drawdown of -30.41% - An investment of $1,000 in IXUS would have grown to $1,305, whereas the same investment in IEFA would have grown to $1,353 [5] Fund Composition - IEFA tracks developed markets in Europe, Australasia, and the Far East, holding 2,589 companies with a sector focus on financial services (22%), industrials (20%), and healthcare (11%) [6] - IXUS holds over 4,100 stocks, providing broader diversification with sector allocations leaning towards financial services, industrials, and basic materials [7] Investor Implications - The choice between IXUS and IEFA depends on the desired exposure; IXUS offers global exposure including emerging markets, while IEFA provides stability and a higher dividend yield from developed markets [8][11] - IEFA's focus on developed markets avoids emerging market volatility but limits growth potential, while IXUS can deliver higher returns due to emerging market growth despite associated risks [9][10]
GSIT Investor News: If You Have Suffered Losses in GSI Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: GSIT), You Are Encouraged to Contact The Rosen Law Firm About Your Rights
Globenewswire· 2026-02-08 16:06
Core Viewpoint - Rosen Law Firm is investigating potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of GSI Technology Inc. due to allegations of materially misleading business information issued by the company [1]. Group 1: Investigation and Allegations - The investigation is prompted by claims that GSI Technology may have misled investors regarding its business operations [1]. - A post on Stockwits alleged that GSI Technology's chip did not run the Gemma-3 as claimed, which led to a significant drop in the company's stock price [3]. Group 2: Stock Price Impact - Following the allegations, GSI Technology's stock price fell by $1.08 per share, representing a 14.2% decrease, closing at $6.52 per share on February 4, 2026 [3]. Group 3: Class Action Details - Investors who purchased GSI Technology securities may be entitled to compensation through a class action lawsuit, with no out-of-pocket fees due to a contingency fee arrangement [2]. - Interested investors can join the class action by submitting a form or contacting the law firm directly [2]. Group 4: Rosen Law Firm's Credentials - Rosen Law Firm has a strong track record in securities class actions, having achieved significant settlements and recognition in the field [4]. - The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors, with notable achievements in 2019 and 2020 [4].