Core Viewpoint - Cal-Maine Foods is under investigation by the Justice Department regarding potential antitrust violations related to egg pricing, which has been a significant factor in U.S. inflation concerns [1][2]. Financial Performance - Cal-Maine reported a nearly doubled net sales of $1.42 billion for the fiscal quarter ending March 1, although this figure fell slightly short of Wall Street expectations [1][2]. - The company experienced a 145% increase in conventional egg sales compared to the same period last year, driven by a 121% surge in prices for conventional eggs, contributing to a $557.4 million increase in net sales [2]. Sales and Pricing Trends - In the last quarter, Cal-Maine sold 331.4 million dozen eggs, marking a 10% year-over-year increase [3]. - Egg prices peaked in February, with wholesale large white eggs reaching over $8 per dozen, before declining to $3.27 per dozen by mid-March [3][7]. Market Context - The surge in egg prices and subsequent shortages have been largely attributed to a bird flu outbreak that has led to the depopulation of 30.3 million birds this year [7]. - Grocery chains, including Walmart and Trader Joe's, have implemented nationwide limits on egg purchases due to the strained supply chain [7]. Stock Performance - Following the announcement of the investigation, Cal-Maine's shares fell 4% in after-hours trading, closing down 3.3% at $90.33, resulting in a 12.2% decline since the beginning of the year [5]. Investigation Details - The Justice Department's investigation aims to determine if there has been any anticompetitive conduct among egg producers [1][6]. - Cal-Maine has stated it is cooperating with the investigation but cannot predict its duration or potential financial impact [2].

Group 1 - The Trump administration is expected to maintain a rigorous stance on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), continuing the scrutiny established under the Biden administration [2][4] - The Department of Justice (DOJ) has already taken action by suing to block a $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks by Hewlett Packard Enterprise, citing concerns over reduced competition [3][4] - Strict guidelines from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and DOJ focus on preventing major deals that could lessen competition and reduce consumer options [5][6] Group 2 - Investment banks had anticipated a more favorable environment for M&A under the Trump administration, hoping for looser restrictions that could lead to increased deal activity and advisory revenue [7][8] - Despite the scrutiny on large tech deals, there may still be opportunities in other sectors, such as banking, where the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has rescinded a policy that could encourage large bank mergers [9] - Goldman Sachs has seen an 88% increase in stock price since November 2023, while Morgan Stanley and JPMorgan Chase are trading at elevated price to tangible book values compared to historical averages, prompting considerations for profit-taking [10]