Core Viewpoint - Charles Schwab Corporation (SCHW) has shown strong stock performance, with a 5.2% increase over the past month and a new 52-week high of $107.27, outperforming the Zacks Finance sector and the Zacks Financial - Investment Bank industry [1] Financial Performance - The company has consistently exceeded earnings expectations, reporting an EPS of $1.39 against a consensus estimate of $1.36 in its last earnings report [2] - For the current fiscal year, Charles Schwab is projected to achieve earnings of $5.77 per share on revenues of $26.4 billion, reflecting an 18.48% increase in EPS and a 10.37% increase in revenues [3] - The next fiscal year forecasts earnings of $6.7 per share on revenues of $28.79 billion, indicating a year-over-year change of 16.05% in EPS and 9.07% in revenues [3] Valuation Metrics - The stock trades at 18.6 times the current fiscal year EPS estimates, which is above the peer industry average of 16.4 times [7] - On a trailing cash flow basis, the stock trades at 18 times compared to the peer group's average of 14.6 times, with a PEG ratio of 0.87 [7] Style Scores and Zacks Rank - Charles Schwab has a Value Score of B, along with Growth and Momentum Scores of B, resulting in a VGM Score of A [6] - The company holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), supported by rising earnings estimates, indicating potential for future growth [8]

Core Viewpoint - Apogee Enterprises has experienced a 20.3% increase in share price over the past month, outperforming the S&P 500, but concerns remain about the sustainability of this trend leading up to the next earnings release [1][2]. Financial Performance - In Q3 fiscal 2026, Apogee reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.02, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.03, and reflecting a 14.3% decrease from the prior-year quarter [3]. - The company generated revenues of $349 million in the quarter, a 2.1% year-over-year increase, but fell short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $350 million [4]. - Cost of sales increased by 5.3% year over year to $266 million, leading to a gross profit decline of 6.9% to $82.9 million and a gross margin decrease to 23.8% from 26.1% [5]. Segment Performance - Revenues in the Architectural Metals segment decreased by 9.9% year over year to $124 million, while the Architectural Glass segment saw a 0.9% increase to $70.8 million [6]. - The Architectural Services segment's revenues improved by 0.2% to $105 million, and the Performance Surfaces segment experienced a significant 59.6% increase to $52.9 million, largely due to the UW Solutions acquisition [7]. Backlog and Cash Position - The backlog for the Architectural Services segment decreased to $775 million from $792 million in the previous quarter [8]. - Apogee had cash and cash equivalents of $41 million at the end of Q3 fiscal 2026, with cash provided by operating activities totaling $67 million for the first nine months of the fiscal year [9]. Guidance and Estimates - The company revised its guidance for net revenues to $1.39 billion from a previous range of $1.39-$1.42 billion, and adjusted EPS guidance to $3.40-$3.50 from $3.60-$3.90, reflecting unfavorable headwinds of 30 cents from tariffs [10]. - There has been a downward trend in estimates, with the consensus estimate shifting down by 14.29% [11]. VGM Scores and Outlook - Apogee has a subpar Growth Score of D and a Momentum Score of D, but a Value Score of B, placing it in the top 40% for this investment strategy, resulting in an aggregate VGM Score of C [12]. - The overall outlook indicates a downward trend in estimates, leading to a Zacks Rank of 5 (Strong Sell), suggesting a below-average return expectation in the coming months [13].

Core Insights - Zacks Premium offers tools for investors to enhance their stock market strategies and confidence, including daily updates, research reports, and stock screens [1][2] Zacks Style Scores - Zacks Style Scores are indicators that rate stocks based on value, growth, and momentum methodologies, helping investors identify stocks likely to outperform the market in the short term [2][3] - Stocks are rated from A to F, with A indicating the highest potential for outperformance [3] Value Score - The Value Style Score focuses on identifying undervalued stocks using financial ratios such as P/E, PEG, and Price/Cash Flow [3] Growth Score - The Growth Style Score assesses a company's financial health and future outlook by analyzing projected and historical earnings, sales, and cash flow [4] Momentum Score - The Momentum Style Score evaluates stocks based on price trends and earnings estimate changes, aiding investors in timing their positions in high-momentum stocks [5] VGM Score - The VGM Score combines all three Style Scores, providing a comprehensive indicator for investors who utilize multiple investing strategies [6] Zacks Rank - The Zacks Rank is a proprietary model that uses earnings estimate revisions to identify stocks, with 1 (Strong Buy) stocks achieving an average annual return of +23.83% since 1988, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 [7][8] - Investors are encouraged to select stocks with a Zacks Rank of 1 or 2 and Style Scores of A or B for optimal success [9] Company Spotlight: Verizon Communications (VZ) - Verizon Communications Inc. is a leading provider of communication services in North America, having grown through mergers and acquisitions, including its merger with MCI Corporation and the acquisition of Alltel Wireless Corp. [11] - Verizon holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) and has a VGM Score of A, with a Momentum Style Score of A, reflecting a 16.1% increase in share price over the past four weeks [12] - Analysts have revised Verizon's earnings estimate upwards, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate increasing by $0.02 to $4.87 per share, and the company has an average earnings surprise of +2.9% [12][13]

Company Performance - Seagate's shares have increased by 34.5% over the past month, reaching a new 52-week high of $459.41 [1] - Year-to-date, Seagate has gained 61.4%, significantly outperforming the Zacks Computer and Technology sector's 0.3% and the Zacks Computer - Integrated Systems industry's 21.2% [1] Earnings and Revenue Expectations - Seagate has consistently exceeded earnings estimates, reporting an EPS of $3.11 against a consensus estimate of $2.83 in its last earnings report [2] - For the current fiscal year, Seagate is projected to achieve earnings of $12.63 per share on revenues of $11.34 billion, reflecting a 55.93% increase in EPS and a 24.62% increase in revenues [3] - The next fiscal year forecasts earnings of $18.89 per share on revenues of $13.87 billion, indicating year-over-year changes of 49.52% and 22.33%, respectively [3] Valuation Metrics - Seagate's current valuation metrics show a P/E ratio of 35.2X for the current fiscal year, higher than the peer industry average of 24.2X [7] - The stock trades at 52.5X on a trailing cash flow basis compared to the peer group's average of 35X, with a PEG ratio of 0.92 [7] Zacks Rank and Style Scores - Seagate holds a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) due to favorable earnings estimate revisions from analysts [8] - The stock has a Value Score of F, while its Growth and Momentum Scores are A and A, respectively, resulting in a VGM Score of B [6] Industry Comparison - Micron Technology, a peer in the industry, also shows strong performance with a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) and has gained 22.1% over the past month [10][12] - Micron is expected to post earnings of $32.90 per share on revenues of $73.3 billion for the current fiscal year, having beaten consensus estimates by 22.25% last quarter [11]

Core Insights - Investors should conduct a thorough review of a company's financial background rather than relying solely on real-time trading numbers, especially in a volatile market [1] - The interest coverage ratio is a critical indicator of a company's ability to meet its debt obligations, particularly in a tighter financial environment [2][4] Financial Metrics - Companies like Casey's General Stores, Brinker International, Cardinal Health, and Flowserve have strong interest coverage ratios, indicating their capacity to service debt [3] - The interest coverage ratio is calculated as Earnings before Interest & Taxes (EBIT) divided by Interest Expense, providing insight into a company's financial stability [5] - A ratio below 1 indicates potential default risk, while a higher ratio suggests a company can withstand financial challenges [7] Investment Strategy - A favorable investment strategy includes selecting stocks with an interest coverage ratio above the industry average, a Zacks Rank of 1 or 2, and a VGM Score of A or B [8][11] - Stocks meeting these criteria are likely to outperform in various market conditions [11] Company Highlights - Casey's General Stores has a Zacks Rank of 1, with a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 24.1% and projected sales and EPS growth of 8.8% and 18.8%, respectively, leading to a 44.6% stock increase over the past year [10][12] - Cardinal Health holds a Zacks Rank of 2, with a trailing earnings surprise of 9.4% and projected sales and EPS growth of 16.4% and 21.5%, respectively, resulting in a 71.5% stock surge [12][13] - Brinker International, also with a Zacks Rank of 2, has a trailing earnings surprise of 8.2% and projected sales and EPS growth of 7.7% and 18.7%, but its stock has declined by 16.6% [13][14] - Flowserve, with a Zacks Rank of 2, shows a trailing earnings surprise of 10.5% and projected sales and EPS growth of 4.6% and 31.9%, leading to a 26.2% stock increase [14][15]

Core Insights - The importance of cash flow generation is emphasized as a critical factor for a company's existence, development, and success, especially amid global economic uncertainty [2][4] - Companies with positive cash flow can meet obligations, reinvest, and return wealth to shareholders, while negative cash flow indicates liquidity issues [4][5] - A focus on companies with increasing cash flow is essential for identifying potential investment opportunities [5][6] Company Analysis - DNOW Inc. (DNOW), Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality, Inc. (PRSU), Riley Exploration Permian, Inc. (REPX), and RF Industries, Ltd. (RFIL) are highlighted as strong picks due to improving cash flow trends [3][8] - DNOW has an expected earnings growth rate of 20.5% for 2026, with a consensus estimate revised upward by 8.7% over the past 30 days, and holds a VGM Score of A [9] - PRSU's earnings per share estimates for 2025 and 2026 have improved by 1.6% and 10.3% respectively over the past 60 days, with a VGM Score of B [10] - REPX's earnings per share estimates for 2025 and 2026 have increased by 5.0% and 14.2% respectively over the past 60 days, also holding a VGM Score of B [11] - RFIL's fiscal 2026 earnings estimate has been revised by 22.9% over the past week, maintaining a VGM Score of B [12] Screening Parameters - Stocks were screened for those with cash flow in the latest quarter at least equal to or greater than the 5-year average cash flow per common share, indicating a positive trend [6] - Additional criteria included a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), an average broker rating of 1, a current price of at least $5, and a VGM Score of B or better [7]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes that while sales and earnings are important metrics for evaluating a company, they may not be sufficient for long-term investment decisions. A deeper analysis of a company's financial health and stability is necessary for sustainable growth [1] Financial Analysis - A critical analysis of a company's financial background is essential for informed investment decisions, with coverage ratios being a key focus. The Interest Coverage Ratio is highlighted as a crucial indicator of a company's ability to meet its debt interest obligations [2][4] - The Interest Coverage Ratio is calculated as Earnings before Interest & Taxes (EBIT) divided by Interest Expense, and companies like Amazon, Stride, Brinker International, and Cardinal Health have strong ratios [3] Importance of Interest Coverage Ratio - The Interest Coverage Ratio indicates how effectively a company can pay interest on its debt, with a ratio below 1.0 suggesting potential default risks. Companies generating earnings significantly above their interest expenses are better positioned to withstand financial difficulties [5][7] Investment Strategy - A winning investment strategy includes selecting stocks with an Interest Coverage Ratio above the industry average, a favorable Zacks Rank, and a VGM Score of A or B, which can lead to better investment outcomes [8][11] - Stocks that meet criteria such as a minimum price of $5, strong historical and projected EPS growth, and substantial trading volume are more likely to perform well [9][11] Company Performance - Amazon has a Zacks Rank of 2, a VGM Score of B, and a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 22.5%, with projected sales and EPS growth of 12% and 29.7% respectively [10][12] - Stride also holds a Zacks Rank of 2 and a VGM Score of B, with projected sales and EPS growth of 4.6% and 3.1% respectively, despite a stock decline of 38.8% over the past year [12][13] - Brinker International has a Zacks Rank of 2 and a VGM Score of A, with projected sales and EPS growth of 6.5% and 14.9% respectively, and a stock increase of 15.7% in the past year [13][14] - Cardinal Health leads with a Zacks Rank of 2 and a VGM Score of A, showing a stock performance increase of 69.1% and projected sales and EPS growth of 16.3% and 20% respectively [10][14][15]

Core Insights - Zacks Premium offers tools for investors to enhance their stock market strategies and confidence, including daily updates, research reports, and stock screens [1] Zacks Style Scores - Zacks Style Scores are indicators designed to help investors select stocks likely to outperform the market within 30 days, rated from A to F based on value, growth, and momentum characteristics [2] - The Value Score identifies attractive stocks using ratios like P/E and Price/Sales, focusing on stocks that are undervalued [3] - The Growth Score emphasizes a company's financial health and future outlook, analyzing projected and historical earnings and cash flow to find stocks with sustainable growth [4] - The Momentum Score helps investors capitalize on price trends, using metrics like weekly price changes and monthly earnings estimate changes [5] - The VGM Score combines all three Style Scores, providing a comprehensive indicator for stocks with strong value, growth, and momentum [6] Zacks Rank - The Zacks Rank is a proprietary model based on earnings estimate revisions, aiding investors in building successful portfolios [7] - Stocks rated 1 (Strong Buy) have historically achieved an average annual return of +23.9%, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 [8] - With over 800 top-rated stocks available, the Style Scores assist in narrowing down choices for investors [9] Investment Strategy - For optimal returns, investors should focus on stocks with a Zacks Rank of 1 or 2 and Style Scores of A or B, ensuring the highest probability of success [10] - Stocks with lower ranks (3 Hold) should also have A or B Style Scores to maximize upside potential [10] - The direction of earnings estimate revisions is crucial; stocks with lower ranks but high Style Scores may still face downward price pressure [11] Company Spotlight: Monster Beverage - Monster Beverage Corporation, based in Corona, CA, is a marketer and distributor of energy drinks, previously known as Hansen Natural Corporation [12] - Currently rated 3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, Monster Beverage has a VGM Score of B [12] - The company is a strong candidate for growth investors, with a Growth Style Score of A and a forecasted year-over-year earnings growth of 22.8% for the current fiscal year [13] - Recent upward revisions in earnings estimates and an average earnings surprise of +5.5% further enhance its attractiveness [13]

Core Viewpoint - Moog (MOG.A) has shown strong stock performance, with an 8.5% increase over the past month and reaching a 52-week high of $261.32, outperforming the broader aerospace sector and defense equipment industry [1] Financial Performance - Moog has consistently exceeded earnings expectations, reporting an EPS of $2.56 against a consensus estimate of $2.24 in its last earnings report [2] - For the current fiscal year, Moog is projected to achieve earnings of $9.83 per share on revenues of $4.21 billion, reflecting a 13.12% increase in EPS and an 8.82% increase in revenues [3] - The next fiscal year forecasts earnings of $11.4 per share on revenues of $4.36 billion, indicating a year-over-year change of 15.97% in EPS and 3.58% in revenues [3] Valuation Metrics - Moog's current valuation metrics show a Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio of 26.4X for the current fiscal year, below the industry average of 35.8X, and a trailing cash flow ratio of 21.5X compared to the peer group's average of 31.6X [6] - The stock has a Value Score of B, a Growth Score of A, and a Momentum Score of B, resulting in a combined VGM Score of A [6] Zacks Rank - Moog holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), supported by favorable earnings estimate revisions from analysts, indicating potential for further gains [7] Industry Comparison - Moog's performance is compared to Innovative Solutions and Support, Inc. (ISSC), which has a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) and has seen a 66.5% increase in shares over the past month [8][10] - The Aerospace - Defense Equipment industry is positioned in the top 29% of all industries, suggesting favorable conditions for both Moog and ISSC [10]

Core Insights - Viking Holdings reported strong Q3 2025 results, with earnings of $1.20 per share exceeding estimates and showing year-over-year improvement [2] - Total revenues reached $1.99 billion, surpassing estimates by 0.1% and increasing by 19.1% year-over-year, driven by higher Capacity Passenger Cruise Days, occupancy, and revenue per PCD [3] - Adjusted EBITDA grew by 26.9% year-over-year to $703.5 million, supported by the same factors contributing to revenue growth [3] Financial Performance - Capacity Passenger Cruise Days increased by 11% year-over-year due to fleet expansion, which included four additional river vessels and two ocean ships [4] - Occupancy for Q3 2025 was reported at 96% [4] - Vessel operating expenses rose by 19.1% year-over-year, with expenses excluding fuel increasing by 21.7% due to fleet size growth [5] Cash Position - As of September 30, 2025, Viking Holdings had $3.03 billion in cash and cash equivalents, up from $2.6 billion in the previous quarter [6] - The company's net debt decreased to $2.75 billion from $3.22 billion in the prior quarter [6] Market Position and Outlook - Viking Holdings has a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), indicating an expectation of in-line returns in the coming months [10] - The company has a strong Growth Score of A but is lagging in Momentum and Value Scores, which are C [8] Industry Comparison - Viking operates within the Leisure and Recreation Services industry, where competitor Planet Fitness reported revenues of $330.35 million, reflecting a 13% year-over-year increase [11] - Planet Fitness is expected to post earnings of $0.77 per share for the current quarter, indicating a 10% year-over-year change [12]