American Airlines Group Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates as a network air carrier. The company provides scheduled air transportation services for passengers and cargo through its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C., as well as through partner gateways in London, Doha, Madrid, Seattle/Tacoma, Sydney, and Tokyo. It operates a mainline fleet of 965 aircraft. The company was formerly known as AMR Corporation and changed its name to American Airlines Group Inc. in December 2013. American Airlines Group Inc. was founded in 1926 and is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas.

American Airlines looks like a company with substantial revenue, but very weak quality in converting that revenue into profit and capital. P/S of 0.17 and P/FCF of 8.94 look inexpensive, however the P/E of 47.71 is above the industry median, which points to a premium relative to current earnings and suggests that the market is already pricing in a recovery. Gross margin of 22.75% and operating margin of 3.03% remain low relative to industry benchmarks, while net margin of 0.36% leaves almost no margin of safety. ROA of 0.32 and ROI of 0.97 are also noticeably weaker than the industry, confirming low efficiency in the use of assets and capital. Earnings and operating performance are uneven: in 2025 there were individual quarters with positive operating income, but TTM net_income and operating_income metrics are effectively around zero, while EPS and EPS forecast remain very weak. The balance sheet also remains strained: a current ratio of 0.49 and quick ratio of 0.38 indicate a shortage of short-term liquidity, while total liabilities of 67.8 billion versus equity of -4.85 billion show negative shareholders’ equity and a high financial burden. Long-term debt of 23.5 billion on its own does not appear to be increasing, but against the backdrop of negative equity and weak liquidity, the risk to shareholders remains high. A strong point is the large cash balance of 8.0 billion and the scale of the business with revenue of 13.9 billion, which supports operational resilience. However, net worth and revenue do not offset weak profitability, and TTM EBITDA appears unstable, limiting the potential for revaluation. The dividend yield of 0.34% is too low to meaningfully support the investment case. Overall, the fundamentals rather justify a cautious approach: the business remains cyclical, margins are low, liquidity is weak, and the balance sheet is burdened by liabilities. Therefore, it would be appropriate to moderately reduce the initial forecast, leaving only limited upside potential in the event of further improvement in operating results.

American Airlines Group, Inc.

Сильный индекс, значительно упал. Быки в растерянности.

Strong index, significantly down. The bulls are confused.

Слабый индекс, значительно вырос. Уверенность медведей остается на низком уровне.

Weak index, significantly up. Bearish confidence remains low.

Сильный индекс, значительно вырос. Нейтральный рынок.

Strong index, significantly up. Neutral market.

Слабый индекс, значительно упал. Нейтральный рынок.

Weak index, significantly down. Neutral market.

Средний индекс, значительно вырос. Увеличился приток средств в лонги.

Medium index, significantly up. The inflow of funds into longs has increased.

Сильный индекс, без изменений. Отток средств из шортов на высоком уровне.

Strong index, flat. Outflow of funds from shorts at a high level.

AAL has strong revenue and cheap sales and FCF multiples, but weak liquidity, negative equity, and low profitability limit the upside.

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Wednesday closed down -1.52%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed down -2.19%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed down -2.06%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) fell -1.59%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) fell -2.23%.
Stock indexes retreated on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 sliding to a 1-month low and the Nasdaq 100 sinking to a 3-month low. Chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks sold off on Wednesday, leading the overall market lower. Also, heightened geopolitical risks are weighing on stocks as crude prices surged, and bond yields jumped when President Trump said the US will “hit Iran hard” after a recent attack from Iran that targeted a US base in Jordan.
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Stocks whipsawed Wednesday afternoon and briefly erased their losses before selling off again into the close after the FOMC kept interest rates unchanged in a hawkish Fed hold. Three Fed members dissented in favor of a quarter-point rate hike, and Fed Chair Warsh said the Fed is committed to “deliver price stability.” The 10-year T-note yield rose +4 bp to 4.64%.
Earnings results from Microsoft and Meta Platforms after Wednesday’s close will be looked at to see whether the vast spending behind the buildout of artificial intelligence can deliver adequate returns.
The FOMC, as expected, kept the fed funds target range unchanged at 3.50% to 3.75% in a 9-3 vote, with Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack, Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari, and Dallas Fed President Lorie Logan voting for a quarter-point rate hike.
The post-FOMC statement said, "Economic activity is expanding at a solid pace despite elevated uncertainty that owes, in part, to the conflict in the Middle East," adding that "productivity growth and capital investment are strong." Inflation remains elevated "in part reflecting supply shocks that have driven price increases in certain sectors, including energy."
Fed Chair Warsh said, "The economy is showing impressive resilience" even with recent shocks and policymakers "will not hesitate to act" if inflation remains elevated.
Sep WTI crude oil prices (CLU26) jumped by more than +6% on Wednesday as the recent lull in hostilities came to an abrupt end after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it targeted a US airbase and command center in Jordan with ballistic missiles. The IRGC also claimed to have hit and halted three tankers attempting to transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the US and Saudi Arabia launched a joint attack on "Iran-aligned terrorists" in Iraq after the IRGC directed them to target US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.
Tensions remain high in the Middle East as the US maintains its blockade of Iranian oil shipments in the Persian Gulf. Also, diplomatic attempts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz appear to be at an impasse. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Gharibabadi said Oman's proposal for a route through the Strait of Hormuz, with 50% under Iran's control and 50% under Oman's, would not address Iran's concerns and that the inbound passage and part of the outbound channel must be entirely under Iran's control.
US MBA mortgage applications fell -6.4% in the week ended July 24, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -3.6% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down -9.9%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +7 bp to an 11.5-month high of 6.76% from 6.69% the prior week.
The outlook for strong Q2 earnings, which continue this week, is a bullish factor for stocks. The markets are awaiting results from a raft of megacap technology companies this week, including Microsoft and Meta Platforms today, and Amazon.com and Apple on Thursday. Forecasts compiled by Bloomberg Intelligence suggest Q2 earnings may increase by +23%, close to Q1’s blowout earnings of +30%, which was more than double the +12% analysts had expected. AI spending is expected to account for most of earnings, with AI infrastructure stocks set to contribute nearly 60% of the S&P 500's earnings-per-share growth in Q2. So far, earnings results have been positive, with 87% of the 216 S&P 500 companies that have reported Q2 earnings beating estimates, according to Bloomberg data.
The markets are discounting a 56% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the next FOMC meeting on September 15-16.
Overseas stock markets settled mixed on Wednesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed down -0.65%. China's Shanghai Composite rebounded from a 1-week low and closed up +0.40%. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average fell to a 2.25-month low and closed down -1.49%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU6) on Wednesday closed down -1 tick. The 10-year T-note yield rose +3.3 bp to 4.639%. T-notes were under pressure from Wednesday’s +6% surge in crude oil prices, which raises inflation expectations and is hawkish for Fed policy. Also, the FOMC's hawkish hold on interest rates weighed on T-note prices after three Fed members dissented in favor of a 25 bp rate hike, and Fed Chair Warsh said policymakers "will not hesitate to act" if inflation remains elevated.
European government bond yields moved higher on Wednesday. The 10-year German bund yield rose +5.6 bp to 3.160%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose +9.2 bp to 5.036%.
The German Jun import price index eased to 6.1% y/y from 6.8% y/y in May.
The markets are discounting a 90% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at their next policy meeting on September 10.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks fell sharply on Wednesday, weighing on the broader market. The Philadelphia Stock Exchange Semiconductor Index ($SOX) dropped to a 2.5-month low and closed down more than -5%. Nebius Group NV (NBIS) closed down more than -12% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100, and KLA Corp (KLAC) closed down more than -10%. Also, Micron Technology (MU) closed down more than -9%, and Applied Materials (AMAT) and ARM Holdings (ARM) closed down by more than -8%. In addition, Sandisk (SNDK) and NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) closed down more than -7%, and Marvell Technology (MRVL) and Lam Research (LRCX) closed down more than -6%. Finally, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Microchip Technology (MCHP), and Intel (INTC) closed down more than -5%.
Airline stocks fell on Wednesday as crude oil prices surged. Alaska Air Group (ALK) closed down more than -5%, and Southwest Airlines (LUV) closed down more than -4%. Also, Delta Air Lines (DAL), American Airlines Group (AAL), and United Airlines Holdings (UAL) closed down more than -3%.
Trucking and freight companies were under pressure on Wednesday amid soaring crude oil prices. ArcBest (ARCB) closed down more than -5%, and FedEx Freight Holding (FDXF) closed down more than -4%. Also, Saia Inc (SAIA) closed down more than -3%, and Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL) and XPO Inc (XPO) closed down more than -2%. In addition, Marten Transport Ltd (MRTN) closed down more than -1%.
Most software stocks rose on Wednesday as investors rotated out of chipmakers into software. Intuit (INTU) closed up more than +6%, and Adobe Systems (ADBE), Datadog (DDOG), and Workday (WDAY) closed up more than +5%. Also, Atlassian Corp (TEAM) and ServiceNow (NOW) closed up more than +4%, and Salesforce (CRM) closed up more than +3% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials. In addition, Autodesk (ADSK) closed up more than +3%, and Thomson Reuters (TRI) closed up more than +2%.
Energy producers and service providers rallied on Wednesday, as crude oil prices jumped by more than +6%. APA Corp (APA) closed up more than +5%, and Diamondback Energy (FANG) and Devon Energy (DVN) closed up more than +4%. Also, ConocoPhillips (COP) and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) closed up more than +3%, and ExxonMobil Holdings (XOM) and Chevron (CVX) closed up more than +2%.
Lennox International (LII) closed down more than -20% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 net sales of $1.55 billion, weaker than the consensus of $1.56 billion.
Vertiv Holdings (VRT) closed down more than -17% after reporting Q2 net sales of $3.27 billion, below the consensus of $3.39 billion.
Masco Corp (MAS) closed down more than -11% after reporting Q2 net sales of $1.99 billion, weaker than the consensus of $2.08 billion.
Caterpillar (CAT) closed down more than -6% to lead losers in the Dow Jones industrials after Baird downgraded the stock to neutral from outperform, citing a growing trend of state and local government actions targeting data centers, a key growth driver for the company.
Avis Budget Group (CAR) closed down more than -6% after reporting Q2 EPS of 98 cents, well below the consensus of $1.91.
Humana (HUM) closed down more than -5% after it maintained its full-year profit outlook despite posting better-than-expected Q2 profit.
Garmin Ltd (GRMN) closed up more than +16% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 revenue of $2.02 billion, above the consensus of $1.92 billion, and raising its full-year revenue estimate to $8.05 billion from a previous estimate of $7.90 billion, stronger than the consensus of $7.99 billion.
GE Healthcare (GEHC) closed up more than +12% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after reporting Q2 adjusted EPS of $1.13, better than the consensus of $1.04.
Amphenol (APH) closed up more than +4% after reporting Q2 net sales of $8.76 billion, better than the consensus of $8.31 billion.
Ford Motor (F) closed up more than +2% after raising its full-year adjusted EBIT to $10 billion to $11 billion from a previous forecast of $8.5 billion to $10.5 billion.
Earnings Reports (7/30/2026)
A O Smith Corp (AOS), Air Products and Chemicals Inc (APD), Alliant Energy Corp (LNT), Altria Group Inc (MO), Amazon.com Inc (AMZN), American Electric Power Co Inc (AEP), Apple Inc (AAPL), Arthur J Gallagher & Co (AJG), Avery Dennison Corp (AVY), Baxter International Inc (BAX), Bristol-Myers Squibb Co (BMY), Builders FirstSource Inc (BLDR), Camden Property Trust (CPT), Cigna Group/The (CI), Coinbase Global Inc (COIN), Corteva Inc (CTVA), CRH PLC (CRH), Dexcom Inc (DXCM), Edison International (EIX), EMCOR Group Inc (EME), Erie Indemnity Co (ERIE), Eversource Energy (ES), Exelon Corp (EXC), First Solar Inc (FSLR), GoDaddy Inc (GDDY), Hershey Co/The (HSY), Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), Ingersoll Rand Inc (IR), Intercontinental Exchange Inc (ICE), International Paper Co (IP), KKR & Co Inc (KKR), Labcorp Holdings Inc (LH), Live Nation Entertainment Inc (LYV), Martin Marietta Materials Inc (MLM), Mastercard Inc (MA), Mettler-Toledo International Inc (MTD), Monolithic Power Systems Inc (MPWR), Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), Quanta Services Inc (PWR), Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc (REGN), Southern Co/The (SO), Stryker Corp (SYK), Trane Technologies PLC (TT), Valero Energy Corp (VLO), Weyerhaeuser Co (WY), Willis Towers Watson PLC (WTW), Xcel Energy Inc (XEL), Yum! Brands Inc (YUM).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Plunge on a Rout in Chipmakers and a Hawkish Fed Hold

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -0.71%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -1.53%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.98%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) are down -0.75%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) are down -1.03%.
Stock indexes are falling today, with the S&P 500 sliding to a 1-month low and the Nasdaq 100 sinking to a 3-month low. Chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks are selling off today, leading the overall market lower. Also, heightened geopolitical risks are weighing on stocks as crude prices surged, and bond yields jumped when President Trump said the US will “hit Iran hard” after a recent attack from Iran that targeted a US base in Jordan.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
The markets were little changed following the results of the 2-day FOMC meeting early this afternoon, with policymakers keeping interest rates unchanged in a 9-3 decision. Also, earnings results from Microsoft and Meta Platforms after today’s close will be looked at to see whether the vast spending behind the buildout of artificial intelligence can deliver adequate returns. The 10-year T-note yield is up +4 bp to 4.64%.
Sep WTI crude oil prices (CLU26) jumped by more than +7% today as the recent lull in hostilities came to an abrupt end after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it targeted a US airbase and command center in Jordan with ballistic missiles. The IRGC also claimed to have hit and halted three tankers attempting to transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the US and Saudi Arabia launched a joint attack on "Iran-aligned terrorists" in Iraq after the IRGC directed them to target US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.
Tensions remain high in the Middle East as the US maintains its blockade of Iranian oil shipments in the Persian Gulf. Also, diplomatic attempts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz appear to be at an impasse. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Gharibabadi said Oman's proposal for a route through the Strait of Hormuz, with 50% under Iran's control and 50% under Oman's, would not address Iran's concerns and that the inbound passage and part of the outbound channel must be entirely under Iran's control.
US MBA mortgage applications fell -6.4% in the week ended July 24, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -3.6% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down -9.9%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +7 bp to an 11.5-month high of 6.76% from 6.69% the prior week.
The outlook for strong Q2 earnings, which continue this week, is a bullish factor for stocks. The markets are awaiting results from a raft of megacap technology companies this week, including Microsoft and Meta Platforms today, and Amazon.com and Apple on Thursday. Forecasts compiled by Bloomberg Intelligence suggest Q2 earnings may increase by +23%, close to Q1’s blowout earnings of +30%, which was more than double the +12% analysts had expected. AI spending is expected to account for most of earnings, with AI infrastructure stocks set to contribute nearly 60% of the S&P 500's earnings-per-share growth in Q2. So far, earnings results have been positive, with 87% of the 216 S&P 500 companies that have reported Q2 earnings beating estimates, according to Bloomberg data.
The markets are discounting a 34% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the conclusion of today’s FOMC meeting.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is down -0.73%. China's Shanghai Composite rebounded from a 1-week low and closed up +0.40%. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average fell to a 2.25-month low and closed down -1.49%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU6) today are down -9 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +3.0 bp to 4.637%. T-notes are under pressure today from a +7% surge in crude oil prices, which raises inflation expectations and is hawkish for Fed policy. Also, long liquidation and position evening are weighing on T-notes ahead of the FOMC’s interest rate decision later today.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield is up +5.0 bp to 3.154%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is up +7.7 bp to 5.021%.
The German Jun import price index eased to 6.1% y/y from 6.8% y/y in May.
The markets are discounting an 88% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on September 10.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks are sharply lower today, weighing on the broader market. The Philadelphia Stock Exchange Semiconductor Index ($SOX) dropped to a 2.5-month low and is down more than -3%. Nebius Group NV (NBIS) is down more than -9% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100, and KLA Corp (KLAC) and Sandisk (SNDK) are down more than -7%. Also, Applied Materials (AMAT), NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), and ARM Holdings (ARM) are down by more than -5%, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is down more than -4%. In addition, Marvell Technology (MRVL), Lam Research (LRCX), and Microchip Technology (MCHP) are down more than -3%, and Nvidia (NVDA), Intel (INTC), and Texas Instruments (TXN) are down more than -2%.
Trucking and freight companies are under pressure today from soaring crude oil prices. ArcBest (ARCB) is down more than -7%, and Saia Inc (SAIA), FedEx Freight Holding (FDXF), JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT), and CH Robinson Worldwide (CHRW) are down more than -2%. Also, Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL), Marten Transport Ltd (MRTN), Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings (KNX), and XPO Inc (XPO) are down more than -1%.
Airline stocks are sliding today with the surge in crude oil prices. Alaska Air Group (ALK) is down more than -3%, and Delta Air Lines (DAL) and Southwest Airlines (LUV) are down more than -2%. Also, American Airlines Group (AAL) and United Airlines Holdings (UAL) are down more than -1%.
Energy producers and service providers are climbing today, with crude oil prices up by more than +7%. Diamondback Energy (FANG) is up more than +4%, and ConocoPhillips (COP), APA Corp (APA), Devon Energy (DVN), ExxonMobil Holdings (XOM), and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) are up more than +3%. Also, Baker Hughes (BKR) and Chevron (CVX) are up more than +2%, and Phillips 66 (PSX) and Valero Energy (VLO) are up more than +1%.
Lennox International (LII) is down more than -19% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 net sales of $1.55 billion, weaker than the consensus of $1.56 billion.
Vertiv Holdings (VRT) is down more than -13% after reporting Q2 net sales of $3.27 billion, below the consensus of $3.39 billion.
Avis Budget Group (CAR) is down more than -11% after reporting Q2 EPS of 98 cents, well below the consensus of $1.91.
Masco Corp (MAS) is down more than -10% after reporting Q2 net sales of $1.99 billion, weaker than the consensus of $2.08 billion.
Caterpillar (CAT) is down more than -6% to lead losers in the Dow Jones industrials after Baird downgraded the stock to neutral from outperform, citing a growing trend of state and local government actions targeting data centers, a key growth driver for the company.
Humana (HUM) is down more than -6% after it maintained its full-year profit outlook despite posting better-than-expected Q2 profit.
Garmin Ltd (GRMN) is up more than +17% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 revenue of $2.02 billion, above the consensus of $1.92 billion, and raising its full-year revenue estimate to $8.05 billion from a previous estimate of $7.90 billion, stronger than the consensus of $7.99 billion.
GE Healthcare (GEHC) is up more than +11% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after reporting Q2 adjusted EPS of $1.13, better than the consensus of $1.04.
Amphenol (APH) is up more than +6% after reporting Q2 net sales of $8.76 billion, better than the consensus of $8.31 billion.
Teradyne (TER) is up more than +5% after reporting Q2 net revenue of $1.33 billion, stronger than the consensus of $1.22 billion.
Ford Motor (F) is up more than +5% after raising its full-year adjusted EBIT to $10 billion to $11 billion from a previous forecast of $8.5 billion to $10.5 billion.
Earnings Reports (7/29/2026)
Align Technology Inc (ALGN), American Water Works Co Inc (AWK), Amphenol Corp (APH), Aon PLC (AON), Automatic Data Processing Inc (ADP), Biogen Inc (BIIB), Boston Scientific Corp (BSX), Bunge Global SA (BG), Carvana Co (CVNA), CBRE Group Inc (CBRE), CH Robinson Worldwide Inc (CHRW), Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (CMG), Cognizant Technology Solutions (CTSH), Electronic Arts Inc (EA), Entergy Corp (ETR), Equinix Inc (EQIX), Essex Property Trust Inc (ESS), Everest Group Ltd (EG), Fair Isaac Corp (FICO), Flex Ltd (FLEX), Fortinet Inc (FTNT), Fortive Corp (FTV), Garmin Ltd (GRMN), GE HealthCare Technologies Inc (GEHC), Generac Holdings Inc (GNRC), General Dynamics Corp (GD), Humana Inc (HUM), IDEX Corp (IEX), Invitation Homes Inc (INVH), Johnson Controls International (JCI), L3Harris Technologies Inc (LHX), Lam Research Corp (LRCX), Lennox International Inc (LII), Masco Corp (MAS), Meta Platforms Inc (META), MGM Resorts International (MGM), Microsoft Corp (MSFT), Mid-America Apartment Communities (MAA), Old Dominion Freight Line Inc (ODFL), O'Reilly Automotive Inc (ORLY), Procter & Gamble Co/The (PG), PTC Inc (PTC), Public Storage (PSA), QUALCOMM Inc (QCOM), Regency Centers Corp (REG), Robinhood Markets Inc (HOOD), Smurfit Westrock PLC (SW), Stanley Black & Decker Inc (SWK), Starbucks Corp (SBUX), Tyler Technologies Inc (TYL), Ventas Inc (VTR), Verisk Analytics Inc (VRSK), Vertiv Holdings Co (VRT), VICI Properties Inc (VICI), Vulcan Materials Co (VMC), Waste Management Inc (WM), WEC Energy Group Inc (WEC).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Tumble as Chipmakers Plunge, Oil Spikes

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -0.71%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -1.53%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.98%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) are down -0.75%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) are down -1.03%.
Stock indexes are falling today, with the S&P 500 sliding to a 1-month low and the Nasdaq 100 sinking to a 3-month low. Chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks are selling off today, leading the overall market lower. Also, heightened geopolitical risks are weighing on stocks as crude prices surged, and bond yields jumped when President Trump said the US will “hit Iran hard” after a recent attack from Iran that targeted a US base in Jordan.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
The markets are awaiting the results of the 2-day FOMC meeting that ends early this afternoon, with policymakers expected to keep interest rates unchanged. Also, earnings results from Microsoft and Meta Platforms after today’s close will be looked at to see whether the vast spending behind the buildout of artificial intelligence can deliver adequate returns. The 10-year T-note yield is up +4 bp to 4.64%.
Sep WTI crude oil prices (CLU26) jumped by more than +7% today as the recent lull in hostilities came to an abrupt end after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it targeted a US airbase and command center in Jordan with ballistic missiles. The IRGC also claimed to have hit and halted three tankers attempting to transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the US and Saudi Arabia launched a joint attack on "Iran-aligned terrorists" in Iraq after the IRGC directed them to target US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.
Tensions remain high in the Middle East as the US maintains its blockade of Iranian oil shipments in the Persian Gulf. Also, diplomatic attempts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz appear to be at an impasse. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Gharibabadi said Oman's proposal for a route through the Strait of Hormuz, with 50% under Iran's control and 50% under Oman's, would not address Iran's concerns and that the inbound passage and part of the outbound channel must be entirely under Iran's control.
US MBA mortgage applications fell -6.4% in the week ended July 24, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -3.6% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down -9.9%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +7 bp to an 11.5-month high of 6.76% from 6.69% the prior week.
The outlook for strong Q2 earnings, which continue this week, is a bullish factor for stocks. The markets are awaiting results from a raft of megacap technology companies this week, including Microsoft and Meta Platforms today, and Amazon.com and Apple on Thursday. Forecasts compiled by Bloomberg Intelligence suggest Q2 earnings may increase by +23%, close to Q1’s blowout earnings of +30%, which was more than double the +12% analysts had expected. AI spending is expected to account for most of earnings, with AI infrastructure stocks set to contribute nearly 60% of the S&P 500's earnings-per-share growth in Q2. So far, earnings results have been positive, with 87% of the 216 S&P 500 companies that have reported Q2 earnings beating estimates, according to Bloomberg data.
The markets are discounting a 34% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the conclusion of today’s FOMC meeting.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is down -0.73%. China's Shanghai Composite rebounded from a 1-week low and closed up +0.40%. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average fell to a 2.25-month low and closed down -1.49%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU6) today are down -9 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +3.0 bp to 4.637%. T-notes are under pressure today from a +7% surge in crude oil prices, which raises inflation expectations and is hawkish for Fed policy. Also, long liquidation and position evening are weighing on T-notes ahead of the FOMC’s interest rate decision later today.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield is up +5.0 bp to 3.154%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is up +7.7 bp to 5.021%.
The German Jun import price index eased to 6.1% y/y from 6.8% y/y in May.
The markets are discounting an 88% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on September 10.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks are sharply lower today, weighing on the broader market. The Philadelphia Stock Exchange Semiconductor Index ($SOX) dropped to a 2.5-month low and is down more than -3%. Nebius Group NV (NBIS) is down more than -9% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100, and KLA Corp (KLAC) and Sandisk (SNDK) are down more than -7%. Also, Applied Materials (AMAT), NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), and ARM Holdings (ARM) are down by more than -5%, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is down more than -4%. In addition, Marvell Technology (MRVL), Lam Research (LRCX), and Microchip Technology (MCHP) are down more than -3%, and Nvidia (NVDA), Intel (INTC), and Texas Instruments (TXN) are down more than -2%.
Trucking and freight companies are under pressure today from soaring crude oil prices. ArcBest (ARCB) is down more than -7%, and Saia Inc (SAIA), FedEx Freight Holding (FDXF), JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT), and CH Robinson Worldwide (CHRW) are down more than -2%. Also, Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL), Marten Transport Ltd (MRTN), Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings (KNX), and XPO Inc (XPO) are down more than -1%.
Airline stocks are sliding today with the surge in crude oil prices. Alaska Air Group (ALK) is down more than -3%, and Delta Air Lines (DAL) and Southwest Airlines (LUV) are down more than -2%. Also, American Airlines Group (AAL) and United Airlines Holdings (UAL) are down more than -1%.
Energy producers and service providers are climbing today, with crude oil prices up by more than +7%. Diamondback Energy (FANG) is up more than +4%, and ConocoPhillips (COP), APA Corp (APA), Devon Energy (DVN), ExxonMobil Holdings (XOM), and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) are up more than +3%. Also, Baker Hughes (BKR) and Chevron (CVX) are up more than +2%, and Phillips 66 (PSX) and Valero Energy (VLO) are up more than +1%.
Lennox International (LII) is down more than -19% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 net sales of $1.55 billion, weaker than the consensus of $1.56 billion.
Vertiv Holdings (VRT) is down more than -13% after reporting Q2 net sales of $3.27 billion, below the consensus of $3.39 billion.
Avis Budget Group (CAR) is down more than -11% after reporting Q2 EPS of 98 cents, well below the consensus of $1.91.
Masco Corp (MAS) is down more than -10% after reporting Q2 net sales of $1.99 billion, weaker than the consensus of $2.08 billion.
Caterpillar (CAT) is down more than -6% to lead losers in the Dow Jones industrials after Baird downgraded the stock to neutral from outperform, citing a growing trend of state and local government actions targeting data centers, a key growth driver for the company.
Humana (HUM) is down more than -6% after it maintained its full-year profit outlook despite posting better-than-expected Q2 profit.
Garmin Ltd (GRMN) is up more than +17% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 revenue of $2.02 billion, above the consensus of $1.92 billion, and raising its full-year revenue estimate to $8.05 billion from a previous estimate of $7.90 billion, stronger than the consensus of $7.99 billion.
GE Healthcare (GEHC) is up more than +11% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after reporting Q2 adjusted EPS of $1.13, better than the consensus of $1.04.
Amphenol (APH) is up more than +6% after reporting Q2 net sales of $8.76 billion, better than the consensus of $8.31 billion.
Teradyne (TER) is up more than +5% after reporting Q2 net revenue of $1.33 billion, stronger than the consensus of $1.22 billion.
Ford Motor (F) is up more than +5% after raising its full-year adjusted EBIT to $10 billion to $11 billion from a previous forecast of $8.5 billion to $10.5 billion.
Earnings Reports (7/29/2026)
Align Technology Inc (ALGN), American Water Works Co Inc (AWK), Amphenol Corp (APH), Aon PLC (AON), Automatic Data Processing Inc (ADP), Biogen Inc (BIIB), Boston Scientific Corp (BSX), Bunge Global SA (BG), Carvana Co (CVNA), CBRE Group Inc (CBRE), CH Robinson Worldwide Inc (CHRW), Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (CMG), Cognizant Technology Solutions (CTSH), Electronic Arts Inc (EA), Entergy Corp (ETR), Equinix Inc (EQIX), Essex Property Trust Inc (ESS), Everest Group Ltd (EG), Fair Isaac Corp (FICO), Flex Ltd (FLEX), Fortinet Inc (FTNT), Fortive Corp (FTV), Garmin Ltd (GRMN), GE HealthCare Technologies Inc (GEHC), Generac Holdings Inc (GNRC), General Dynamics Corp (GD), Humana Inc (HUM), IDEX Corp (IEX), Invitation Homes Inc (INVH), Johnson Controls International (JCI), L3Harris Technologies Inc (LHX), Lam Research Corp (LRCX), Lennox International Inc (LII), Masco Corp (MAS), Meta Platforms Inc (META), MGM Resorts International (MGM), Microsoft Corp (MSFT), Mid-America Apartment Communities (MAA), Old Dominion Freight Line Inc (ODFL), O'Reilly Automotive Inc (ORLY), Procter & Gamble Co/The (PG), PTC Inc (PTC), Public Storage (PSA), QUALCOMM Inc (QCOM), Regency Centers Corp (REG), Robinhood Markets Inc (HOOD), Smurfit Westrock PLC (SW), Stanley Black & Decker Inc (SWK), Starbucks Corp (SBUX), Tyler Technologies Inc (TYL), Ventas Inc (VTR), Verisk Analytics Inc (VRSK), Vertiv Holdings Co (VRT), VICI Properties Inc (VICI), Vulcan Materials Co (VMC), Waste Management Inc (WM), WEC Energy Group Inc (WEC).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Tumble Ahead of FOMC as Chipmakers Plunge

Southwest Airlines Co. LUV has a stronger investment case after a sharp earnings rebound and a major stock rally. Better revenue productivity, solid liquidity and shareholder returns support the recovery story.
The case is still balanced. Fuel exposure, Boeing-related execution risk and a valuation premium to the airline sub-industry limit how aggressively investors may want to chase the shares.
LUV’s Earnings Beat Strengthens the Bull Case
Southwest Airlines reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of 94 cents per share, up 118.6% year over year. The result was 80.8% above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 52 cents.
The earnings beat came despite a revenue miss. Operating revenues of $8.43 billion rose 16.4% but missed the consensus mark by 1.7%, showing that cost control and stronger unit economics were central to the quarter’s upside.
Southwest Airlines Co. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Southwest Airlines Restores Margin Momentum
Adjusted operating income climbed 138.8% to $585 million. Adjusted operating margin expanded 3.3 percentage points to 6.7%, despite an $889 million year-over-year increase in fuel expense.
The improvement was not driven by broad volume growth. Capacity increased only 0.2%, while adjusted revenue per available seat mile jumped 20.1%, helped by higher fares, disciplined capacity, assigned and extra-legroom seating, bag fees and better revenue management.
LUV’s Valuation Sends Mixed Signals
LUV trades at 0.66X forward 12-month price-to-sales. That is above 0.53X for the Zacks airline sub-industry but below Southwest Airlines' five-year median of 0.88X.
That creates a split valuation picture. The stock may look inexpensive against its own history, but it does not offer a clear discount to direct industry benchmarks. Delta Air Lines DAL and American Airlines Group AAL remain relevant peers for investors comparing airline demand, pricing and cost exposure; Delta Air Lines operates a global network serving more than 290 destinations, while American Airlines' investor relations site provides financial information for stockholders and analysts.
Southwest Airlines Has Moderate Target Upside
Southwest Airlines' $55 price target compares with a reported share price of $46.31. The target still implies upside, but the stock has already gained 12.1% year to date and 50.8% over the trailing 12 months.
After that move, execution matters more. Further appreciation likely depends on whether Southwest Airlines can sustain unit-revenue gains while managing fuel, retrofit costs and fleet-delivery risk.
LUV’s Liquidity Supports the Turnaround
Southwest Airlines ended the second quarter with $5.3 billion of liquidity, including $3.8 billion in cash and cash equivalents. Gross leverage was 2.1 times, and first-half operating cash flow reached nearly $2 billion.
Capital allocation also supports flexibility. The company paid $181 million in dividends in the first half of 2026 and repurchased $1.25 billion of common stock in the first quarter, while management expects 2026 net capital spending near the low end of, or below, the prior $3.0-$3.5 billion range.
Southwest Airlines’ Rating Case Needs Confirmation
The bottom line: Southwest Airlines has improved its earnings profile, but investors still need confirmation that the rebound can withstand fuel volatility, higher nonfuel costs and Boeing-related execution challenges.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Its Value Score of A, Growth Score of A, Momentum Score of B and VGM Score of A indicate favorable estimate and style characteristics, but the remaining risk factors argue for selectivity rather than an unconditional chase after the rally.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Is Southwest Airlines Stock Attractive After Its Earnings Rebound?

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -0.18%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -0.85%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.23%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) are down -0.25%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) are down -0.30%.
Stock indexes turned lower today as crude prices surged, and bond yields jumped after President Trump said the US will “hit Iran hard” after a recent attack from Iran that targeted a US base in Jordan. The markets are awaiting the results of the 2-day FOMC meeting that ends early this afternoon, with policymakers expected to keep interest rates unchanged. Also, earnings results from Microsoft and Meta Platforms after today’s close will be looked at to see whether the vast spending behind the buildout of artificial intelligence can deliver adequate returns. The 10-year T-note yield is up +3 bp to 4.63%.
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Sep WTI crude oil prices (CLU26) jumped by more than +6% today as the recent lull in hostilities came to an abrupt end after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it targeted a US airbase and command center in Jordan with ballistic missiles. The IRGC also claimed to have hit and halted three tankers attempting to transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the US and Saudi Arabia launched a joint attack on "Iran-aligned terrorists" in Iraq after the IRGC directed them to target US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.
Tensions remain high in the Middle East as the US maintains its blockade of Iranian oil shipments in the Persian Gulf. Also, diplomatic attempts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz appear to be at an impasse. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Gharibabadi said Oman's proposal for a route through the Strait of Hormuz, with 50% under Iran's control and 50% under Oman's, would not address Iran's concerns and that the inbound passage and part of the outbound channel must be entirely under Iran's control.
US MBA mortgage applications fell -6.4% in the week ended July 24, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -3.6% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down -9.9%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +7 bp to an 11.5-month high of 6.76% from 6.69% the prior week.
The outlook for strong Q2 earnings, which continue this week, is a bullish factor for stocks. The markets are awaiting results from a raft of megacap technology companies this week, including Microsoft and Meta Platforms today, and Amazon.com and Apple on Thursday. Forecasts compiled by Bloomberg Intelligence suggest Q2 earnings may increase by +23%, close to Q1’s blowout earnings of +30%, which was more than double the +12% analysts had expected. AI spending is expected to account for most of earnings, with AI infrastructure stocks set to contribute nearly 60% of the S&P 500's earnings-per-share growth in Q2. So far, earnings results have been positive, with 86% of the 170 S&P 500 companies that have reported Q2 earnings beating estimates, according to Bloomberg data.
The markets are discounting a 36% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the conclusion of today’s FOMC meeting.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is down -0.48%. China's Shanghai Composite rebounded from a 1-week low and closed up +0.40%. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average fell to a 2.25-month low and closed down -1.49%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU6) today are down -8 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +2.6 bp to 4.633%. T-notes are under pressure today from a +6% surge in crude oil prices, which raises inflation expectations and is hawkish for Fed policy. Also, long liquidation and position evening are weighing on T-notes ahead of the FOMC’s interest rate decision later today.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield is up +3.2 bp to 3.136%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is up +5.3 bp to 4.997%.
The German Jun import price index eased to 6.1% y/y from 6.8% y/y in May.
The markets are discounting an 88% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on September 10.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks are moving lower today, weighing on the broader market. Nebius Group NV (NBIS) is down more than -8% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100, and Sandisk (SNDK) is down more than -6%. Also, Applied Materials (AMAT) and KLA Corp (KLAC) are down by more than -4%, and NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) and ARM Holdings (ARM) are down by more than -3%. In addition, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), ASML Holding NV (ASML), Micron Technology (MU), Lam Research (LRCX), and Microchip Technology (MCHP) are down more than -2%.
Trucking and freight companies are under pressure today from soaring crude oil prices. ArcBest (ARCB) is down more than -4%, and Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL) and Saia Inc (SAIA) are down more than -2%. Also, FedEx Freight Holding (FDXF), Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings (KNX), JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT), Marten Transport Ltd (MRTN), CH Robinson Worldwide (CHRW), and XPO Inc (XPO) are down more than -1%.
Airline stocks are sliding today with the surge in crude oil prices. Alaska Air Group (ALK) and Southwest Airlines (LUV) are down more than -2%, and American Airlines Group (AAL), United Airlines Holdings (UAL), and Delta Air Lines (DAL) are down more than -1%.
Energy producers and service providers are climbing today, with crude oil prices up by more than +6%. ConocoPhillips (COP), Diamondback Energy (FANG), and Valero Energy (VLO) are up more than +3%, and APA Corp (APA), Chevron (CVX), Devon Energy (DVN), ExxonMobil Holdings (XOM), Marathon Petroleum (MPC), Occidental Petroleum (OXY), and Phillips 66 (PSX) are up more than +2%. Also, SLB Ltd (SLB), Baker Hughes (BKR), and Haliburton (HAL) are up more than +1%.
Lennox International (LII) is down more than -13% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 net sales of $1.55 billion, weaker than the consensus of $1.56 billion.
Vertiv Holdings (VRT) is down more than -8% after reporting Q2 net sales of $3.27 billion, below the consensus of $3.39 billion.
CoStar Group (CSGP) is down more than -8% after reporting Q2 revenue of $925 million, weaker than the consensus of $929.4 million.
Skyworks Solutions (SWKS) is down more than -7% after forecasting Q4 adjusted EPS of $1.27, below the consensus of $1.29.
Avis Budget Group (CAR) is down more than -6% after reporting Q2 EPS of 98 cents, well below the consensus of $1.91.
Caterpillar (CAT) is down more than -2% after Baird downgraded the stock to neutral from outperform, citing a growing trend of state and local government actions targeting data centers, a key growth driver for the company.
Teradyne (TER) is up more than +13% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 after reporting Q2 net revenue of $1.33 billion, stronger than the consensus of $1.22 billion.
GE Healthcare (GEHC) is up more than +10% after reporting Q2 adjusted EPS of $1.13, better than the consensus of $1.04.
Garmin Ltd (GRMN) is up more than +7% after reporting Q2 revenue of $2.02 billion, above the consensus of $1.92 billion, and raising its full-year revenue estimate to $8.05 billion from a previous estimate of $7.90 billion, stronger than the consensus of $7.99 billion.
Bloom Energy (BE) is up more than +7% after reporting Q2 revenue of $1.07 billion, stronger than the consensus of $838.7 million, and raising its full-year revenue forecast to $3.9 billion to $4.2 billion from a previous forecast of $3.4 billion to $3.8 billion, above the consensus of $3.74 billion.
Generac Holdings (GNRC) is up more than +5% after raising its full-year adjusted Ebitda margin to 20% to 21% from a previous estimate of 18.5% to 19.5%, better than the consensus of 19.2%.
Ford Motor (F) is up more than +4% after raising its full-year adjusted EBIT to $10 billion to $11 billion from a previous forecast of $8.5 billion to $10.5 billion.
Earnings Reports (7/29/2026)
Align Technology Inc (ALGN), American Water Works Co Inc (AWK), Amphenol Corp (APH), Aon PLC (AON), Automatic Data Processing Inc (ADP), Biogen Inc (BIIB), Boston Scientific Corp (BSX), Bunge Global SA (BG), Carvana Co (CVNA), CBRE Group Inc (CBRE), CH Robinson Worldwide Inc (CHRW), Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (CMG), Cognizant Technology Solutions (CTSH), Electronic Arts Inc (EA), Entergy Corp (ETR), Equinix Inc (EQIX), Essex Property Trust Inc (ESS), Everest Group Ltd (EG), Fair Isaac Corp (FICO), Flex Ltd (FLEX), Fortinet Inc (FTNT), Fortive Corp (FTV), Garmin Ltd (GRMN), GE HealthCare Technologies Inc (GEHC), Generac Holdings Inc (GNRC), General Dynamics Corp (GD), Humana Inc (HUM), IDEX Corp (IEX), Invitation Homes Inc (INVH), Johnson Controls International (JCI), L3Harris Technologies Inc (LHX), Lam Research Corp (LRCX), Lennox International Inc (LII), Masco Corp (MAS), Meta Platforms Inc (META), MGM Resorts International (MGM), Microsoft Corp (MSFT), Mid-America Apartment Communities (MAA), Old Dominion Freight Line Inc (ODFL), O'Reilly Automotive Inc (ORLY), Procter & Gamble Co/The (PG), PTC Inc (PTC), Public Storage (PSA), QUALCOMM Inc (QCOM), Regency Centers Corp (REG), Robinhood Markets Inc (HOOD), Smurfit Westrock PLC (SW), Stanley Black & Decker Inc (SWK), Starbucks Corp (SBUX), Tyler Technologies Inc (TYL), Ventas Inc (VTR), Verisk Analytics Inc (VRSK), Vertiv Holdings Co (VRT), VICI Properties Inc (VICI), Vulcan Materials Co (VMC), Waste Management Inc (WM), WEC Energy Group Inc (WEC).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Pressured by Renewed US-Iran Hostilities

United Airlines Holdings (UAL) has a balanced investment setup after a strong revenue quarter. Demand, premium revenue and loyalty trends support the recovery case, but fuel and labor costs are pressuring margins.
The stock’s appeal depends on whether United Airlines can turn revenue strength into steadier earnings expansion. Rising estimates and liquidity help, while execution risk keeps the case from looking clear-cut.
UAL’s Earnings Beat Masks Profit Pressure
United Airlines reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $1.99 per share, above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.92. Still, earnings declined 48.6% year over year as higher fuel costs weighed on profitability.
United Airlines Holdings Inc Price and EPS Surprise
Adjusted operating income fell 46.3% to $951 million. Adjusted operating margin narrowed 6.2 percentage points to 5.4%, showing that the earnings beat did not erase the pressure from cost inflation.
United Airlines’ Outlook Supports Recovery
United Airlines now expects 2026 adjusted earnings of $9-$11 per share. For the third quarter, adjusted earnings are projected to be in the range of $2.50-$3.50 per share, based on an assumed all-in fuel price of about $3.69 per gallon.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for current-year earnings has increased 4.7% in the past four weeks. Management also expects third- and fourth-quarter total revenue per available seat mile growth to exceed the second quarter’s 12.1% increase.
UAL’s Valuation Offers a Mixed Signal
UAL trades at 0.54X forward 12-month price-to-sales, close to 0.53X for the airline sub-industry. The multiple is also above United Airlines' five-year median of 0.33X, limiting the argument that the stock is uniformly cheap.
The forward price-to-earnings ratio of 9.4 and PEG ratio of 0.9 add support to the valuation case. Delta Air Lines DAL and American Airlines Group AAL remain useful peer comparisons for investors weighing airline demand, pricing and cost exposure across the group. Delta Air Lines operates a broad global network, while American Airlines Group is the parent of American Airlines and trades under AAL.
United Airlines Has Limited Target Upside
United Airlines' $131 price target compares with the reported share price of $120.57. That implies positive but moderate appreciation potential from the cited level.
The modest spread puts more weight on execution. Continued earnings delivery, fare realization and fuel-cost recovery are central to whether UAL becomes more attractive from here.
UAL’s Balance Sheet Adds Flexibility and Risk
United Airlines ended the second quarter with $19.6 billion of available liquidity and trailing 12-month net leverage of 2.2 times. That liquidity gives the airline room to fund fleet and customer-facing investments while managing cyclical swings.
Debt remains part of the risk profile. Debt, finance lease obligations and other financial liabilities stood at $26.46 billion, making balance-sheet discipline important as United Airlines works through fuel volatility and capital spending needs.
United Airlines’ Scores Favor Selective Patience
The bottom line: United Airlines has revenue momentum, a reasonable valuation and improving estimates, but margin compression keeps the investment case mixed. Fuel, labor and execution risks still matter.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), which points to patience rather than an aggressive near-term buying stance. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
The company's Value Score of A supports the valuation case, while the Growth Score of C, the Momentum Score of D and a VGM Score of B point to attractive features, not a decisive signal.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Is United Airlines Stock Attractive After Its Strong Revenue Growth?

American Airlines AAL offers a mixed investment setup: a depressed sales multiple, a $17 price target and improving revenue quality, offset by fuel volatility, weak margins and a leveraged balance sheet.
The stock’s recovery case depends on whether commercial momentum can translate into steadier earnings. That remains uncertain, but AAL’s valuation gives investors a clear reason to keep watching the shares.
Why AAL’s Valuation Points to Potential Upside
AAL trades at 0.16 times forward 12-month sales, below its five-year median of 0.17 times and well under the sub-industry multiple of 0.54 times. That discount suggests the market is still assigning a heavy risk premium to the airline’s earnings volatility and balance-sheet constraints.
The $17 price target is based on 0.18 times forward sales. Compared with the report-date share price of $14.95, that implies potential upside, though the valuation case depends on AAL sustaining revenue growth while rebuilding margins.
American Airlines’ Earnings Recovery Faces Fuel Pressure
Second-quarter adjusted earnings of 15 cents per share exceeded the consensus estimate of 3 cents. Operating revenues reached a record $16.74 billion, reflecting a strong rebound across cabins and geographies.
The earnings quality was less convincing. Fuel expense surged 83.3%, pressuring profitability, while adjusted operating margin contracted to 2.7% from 8.2% a year earlier. That gap shows why revenue strength alone may not be enough if fuel remains volatile.
This was the third earnings beat by the company in the last four quarters. It missed the mark in the other quarter. The average beat is 97.6%.
American Airlines Price and EPS Surprise
How AAL’s Balance Sheet Shapes the Investment Case
AAL’s balance sheet remains a major constraint. The company carries $28.2 billion of long-term debt, a $4 billion stockholders’ deficit and a current ratio near 0.53, leaving limited room for operating shocks.
There are offsets. American ended the second quarter with $11.3 billion of available liquidity, and first-half operating cash flow improved to $4.69 billion from $3.42 billion a year earlier. Management also refinanced maturities and continued debt-repayment efforts, which helps reduce near-term financial pressure.
American Airlines’ Revenue Momentum Supports the Thesis
Management expects third-quarter revenue to increase 16%-19% on 3%-5% capacity growth. That spread points to pricing, mix and network gains rather than capacity alone.
Premium passenger unit revenue rose 13.4%, while managed corporate revenue increased 26% in the second quarter. AAdvantage enrollments grew more than 30%, and co-branded card spending rose 8%, supporting the view that loyalty and premium demand can improve revenue quality.
Still, full-year adjusted guidance ranging from a loss of 65 cents per share to a profit of 65 cents per share highlights limited visibility. United Airlines Holdings UAL and Delta Air Lines DAL remain relevant comparisons for investors assessing premium travel, corporate demand and fuel sensitivity across large U.S. carriers.
How AAL’s Scores Balance Value Against Weak Momentum
The bottom line is that AAL looks inexpensive, but not without reason. Revenue momentum and a low sales multiple support the undervaluation argument, while fuel pressure, weak margins and leverage keep the risk-reward profile balanced.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating a neutral short-term earnings-revision setup. Its Value Score of A and VGM Score of B support the valuation case, while the Growth Score of C and Momentum Score of F show that earnings visibility and price trends remain uneven. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Is AAL Stock Undervalued After Its Commercial and Premium Recovery?

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Monday closed up +0.02%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +0.51%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed down -0.32%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) rose +0.02%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) fell -0.33%.
Stock indexes settled mixed on Monday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average posting a 1-week high and the Nasdaq 100 falling to a 2.5-month low. The weakness in chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks on Monday weighed on the Nasdaq 100 and limited gains in the broader market. Investors rotated out of semiconductor and AI-infrastructure stocks on Monday and into beaten-down sectors, such as software.
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Stocks initially jumped on Monday after the US and Iran held off on attacks for a third straight day, easing geopolitical risks, pushing crude oil prices sharply lower, and helping lift global stock and bond markets. On Sunday, Mike Waltz, US ambassador to the United Nations, said the US is giving diplomacy “some space.” The plunge in crude oil prices on Monday knocked the 10-year T-note yield down -4 bp to 4.64%.
Monday’s US economic news showed strength in the economy and is supportive of stocks after US Jun capital goods new orders nondefense ex-aircraft, a proxy for capital spending, rose +0.9% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.7% m/m.
Sep WTI crude oil prices (CLU26) plunged by more than -7% on Monday as tensions eased in the Middle East after the US held off against further airstrikes on Iran for a third straight day and Iran signaled it was refraining from any retaliation as it held negotiations with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz.
However, tensions remain high in the Middle East as the US maintains its blockade of Iranian oil shipments in the Persian Gulf and President Trump raised the possibility of intensified action against Iran. Also, Houthi militants in Yemen claimed to have struck facilities linked to Saudi Aramco in the Red Sea port towns of Jizan and Yanbu on Saturday. Yanbu, the western end of the East-West pipeline, has become Saudi’s key crude export outlet since the Strait of Hormuz has effectively been shut off by the war. Jizan is home to a refinery and export terminal along the Red Sea.
The outlook for strong Q2 earnings, which continue this week, is a bullish factor for stocks. The markets are waiting for results from a raft of megacap technology companies this week, including Amazon.com, Meta Platforms, and Microsoft. Forecasts compiled by Bloomberg Intelligence suggest Q2 earnings may increase by +23%, close to Q1’s blowout earnings of +30%, which was more than double the +12% analysts had expected. AI spending is expected to account for most of earnings, with AI infrastructure stocks set to contribute nearly 60% of the S&P 500's earnings-per-share growth in Q2. So far, earnings results have been positive, with 86% of the 135 S&P 500 companies that have reported Q2 earnings beating estimates, according to Bloomberg data.
The markets are discounting a 38% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the next FOMC meeting on Tue/Wed.
Overseas stock markets settled higher on Monday. The Euro Stoxx 50 climbed to a 2.5-week high and closed up +0.02%. China's Shanghai Composite closed up +1.15% on Friday. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average closed up +0.50%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU6) on Monday closed up +8 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield fell -3.6 bp to 4.641%. T-notes moved higher amid Monday’s -7% plunge in crude oil prices, which eased inflation expectations. The 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 1-month low of 2.201% on Monday. Weak demand for the Treasury’s $70 billion auction of 5-year T-notes limited gains in T-notes as the auction had a bid-to-cover ratio of 2.28, below the 10-auction average of 2.35 and the lowest in 3.75 years.
European government bond yields moved lower on Monday. The 10-year German bund yield fell -3.9 bp to 3.133%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell -3.5 bp to 4.997%.
The German Jul IFO business confidence index rose +0.9 to a 5-month high of 86.6, stronger than expectations of 86.0.
ECB Governing Council member Peter Kazimir said "he remains of the view that the ECB will have to raise interest rates at least one more time" to ensure that inflation risks don't spin out of control.
The markets are discounting an 88% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on September 10.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks retreated on Monday, weighing on the broader market. The iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) fell to a 1-week low and closed down more than -2%. Sandisk (SNDK) closed down more than -12% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and ASML Holding NV (ASML) closed down more than -5%. Also, Western Digital (WDC), Lam Research (LRCX), and Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) closed down more than -4%, and Micron Technology (MU), Applied Materials (AMAT), and KLA Corp (KLAC) closed down more than -3%. In addition, Marvell Technology (MRVL) closed down more than -2%.
Energy producers and service providers moved lower on Monday amid the -7% decline in crude oil prices. Devon Energy (DVN), Diamondback Energy (FANG), and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) closed down more than -4%, and APA Corp (APA), ConocoPhillips (COP), and Haliburton (HAL) closed down more than -3%. Also, Chevron (CVX) closed down more than -2%, and ExxonMobil Holdings (XOM) and SLB Ltd (SLB) closed down more than -1%.
Software stocks rallied on Monday, a supportive factor for the overall market. Atlassian (TEAM) closed up more than +10%, and Workday (WDAY) closed up more than +9% to lead gainers in the S&P 500. Also, Thomson Reuters (TRI) closed up more than +8%, and Autodesk (ADSK) and Palantir Technologies (PLTR) closed up more than +7%. In addition, ServiceNow (NOW) closed up more than +6%, and Salesforce (CRM) closed up more than +6% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials. Finally, Adobe (ADBE) closed up more than +5%, Oracle (ORCL) closed up more than +4%, Intuit (INTU) and Datadog (DDOG) closed up by more than +2%, and Microsoft (MSFT) closed up by more than +1%.
Airline stocks and cruise line operators moved higher on Monday after crude oil prices plunged more than -7%. American Airlines Group (AAL), Carnival (CCL), Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), and Royal Caribbean Cruises (RCL) closed up more than +3%, and Alaska Air Group (ALK) closed up more than +2%. Also, United Airlines Holdings (UAL) and Delta Air Lines (DAL) closed up more than +1%, and Southwest Airlines (LUV) closed up +0.67%.
CH Robinson Worldwide (CHRW) closed down more than -6%, adding to last Friday’s -9% plunge, to lead trucking and freight companies lower after a Dallas jury awarded $604 million in compensatory damages against the company and two other defendants for a verdict related to a trucking accident. Also, FedEx Freight Holding Company (FDXF) and Marten Transport (MRTN) closed down more than -4%, and Arcbest (ARCB) closed down more than -3%. In addition, Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL), Knight-Swift Transportation (KNX), JB Hunt Transport (JBHT), and XPO Inc (XPO) closed down more than -2%.
MapLight Therapeutics (MPLT) closed down more than -71% after posting results from a mid-stage trial of its experimental therapy to treat schizophrenia, which Stifel said did not meet the “upside case” scenario.
Nvidia (NVDA) closed down more than -4% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials after announcing it had made a “substantial” investment in AI startup Safe Superintelligence.
Forte Biosciences (FBRX) closed up more than +39% after Argenx SE agreed to buy the company for about $2.2 billion, or $77 a share.
D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) closed up more than +20% after Benchmark Company LLC reinstated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $30.
IonQ (IONQ) closed up more than +9% after Benchmark Company LLC reinstated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $60.
Baker Hughes (BKR) closed up more than +6% after reporting Q2 revenue of $6.74 billion, better than the consensus of $6.51 billion.
Rocket Lab Corp. (RKLB) closed up more than +4% after KGI Securities upgraded the stock to outperform from neutral with a price target of $107.
Earnings Reports (7/28/2026)
American Tower Corp (AMT), Arch Capital Group Ltd (ACGL), Armstrong World Industries Inc (AWI), Avis Budget Group Inc (CAR), Axalta Coating Systems Ltd (AXTA), Axis Capital Holdings Ltd (AXS), Bloom Energy Corp (BE), Boeing Co/The (BA), BXP Inc (BXP), Caesars Entertainment Inc (CZR), Carrier Global Corp (CARR), Centene Corp (CNC), CenterPoint Energy Inc (CNP), Chemed Corp (CHE), CMS Energy Corp (CMS), Coca-Cola Co/The (KO), Corning Inc (GLW), CoStar Group Inc (CSGP), Crane Co (CR), DTE Energy Co (DTE), Ecolab Inc (ECL), Enphase Energy Inc (ENPH), ExlService Holdings Inc (EXLS), Expand Energy Corp (EXE), Extra Space Storage Inc (EXR), FirstEnergy Corp (FE), Ford Motor Co (F), HF Sinclair Corp (DINO), Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc (HLT), Hubbell Inc (HUBB), Illinois Tool Works Inc (ITW), Incyte Corp (INCY), Invesco Ltd (IVZ), IQVIA Holdings Inc (IQV), KLA Corp (KLAC), Landstar System Inc (LSTR), Liberty Live Holdings Inc (LLYVA), Manhattan Associates Inc (MANH), Mondelez International Inc (MDLZ), NOV Inc (NOV), NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), Omnicom Group Inc (OMC), Oshkosh Corp (OSK), PACCAR Inc (PCAR), PayPal Holdings Inc (PYPL), Pentair PLC (PNR), PPG Industries Inc (PPG), Qorvo Inc (QRVO), Repligen Corp (RGEN), Rithm Capital Corp (RITM), Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL), S&P Global Inc (SPGI), Seagate Technology Holdings PL (STX), Sherwin-Williams Co/The (SHW), Skyworks Solutions Inc (SWKS), STAG Industrial Inc (STAG), Teradyne Inc (TER), Textron Inc (TXT), TransUnion (TRU), United Parcel Service Inc (UPS), Unum Group (UNM), Veralto Corp (VLTO), Visa Inc (V), WP Carey Inc (WPC), Xylem Inc/NY (XYL).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Settle Mixed as AI Angst Offsets Easing Geopolitical Tensions

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.11%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.54%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.46%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) are up +0.11%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) are down +0.40%.
Stock indexes gave up early gains today and are trading mixed, with the Nasdaq 100 falling to a 2.5-month low. The weakness in chipmakers is weighing on the broader market as investors rotate out of semiconductor and AI-infrastructure stocks and into beaten-down sectors, such as software.
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Stocks initially jumped today, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average posting a 1-week high after the US and Iran held off attacks on one another for a third straight day, easing geopolitical risks, pushing crude oil prices down sharply, and helping lift global stock and bond markets. On Sunday, Mike Waltz, US ambassador to the United Nations, said the US is giving diplomacy “some space.” The plunge in crude oil prices today has knocked the 10-year T-note yield down -3 bp to 4.65%.
Today’s US economic news shows strength in the economy and is supportive of stocks after US Jun capital goods new orders, nondefense ex-aircraft, rose +0.9% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.7% m/m.
Sep WTI crude oil prices (CLU26) are down more than -6% today, as tensions eased in the Middle East after the US held off against further airstrikes on Iran for a third straight day and Iran signaled it was refraining from any retaliation as it held negotiations with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz.
However, tensions remain high in the Middle East as President Trump has raised the possibility of intensified action against Iran. Also, Houthi militants in Yemen claimed to have struck facilities linked to Saudi Aramco in the Red Sea port towns of Jizan and Yanbu on Saturday. Yanbu, the western end of the East-West pipeline, has become Saudi’s key crude export outlet since the Strait of Hormuz has effectively been shut off by the war. Jizan is home to a refinery and export terminal along the Red Sea.
The outlook for strong Q2 earnings, which continue this week, is a bullish factor for stocks. The markets are waiting for results from a raft of megacap technology companies this week, including Amazon.com, Meta Platforms, and Microsoft. Forecasts compiled by Bloomberg Intelligence suggest Q2 earnings may increase by +23%, close to Q1’s blowout earnings of +30%, which was more than double the +12% analysts had expected. AI spending is expected to account for most of earnings, with AI infrastructure stocks set to contribute nearly 60% of the S&P 500's earnings-per-share growth in Q2. So far, earnings results have been positive, with 86% of the 135 S&P 500 companies that have reported Q2 earnings beating estimates, according to Bloomberg data.
The markets are discounting a 38% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the next FOMC meeting on Tue/Wed.
Overseas stock markets are higher today. The Euro Stoxx 50 climbed to a 2.5-week high and is up +0.39%. China's Shanghai Composite closed up +1.15% on Friday. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average closed up +0.50%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU6) today are up +5 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down -2.4 bp to 4.653%. T-notes are moving higher amid today’s -6% plunge in crude oil prices, which eases inflation expectations. The 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 3-week low of 2.221% today. Supply pressures are limiting the upside in T-notes as the Treasury will auction $183 billion of T-notes today and tomorrow, beginning with a $69 billion auction of 2-year T-notes and a $70 billion auction of 5-year T-notes later today.
European government bond yields are moving lower today. The 10-year German bund yield is down -4.6 bp to 3.126%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -4.9 bp to 4.983%.
The German Jul IFO business confidence index rose +0.9 to a 5-month high of 86.6, stronger than expectations of 86.0.
ECB Governing Council member Peter Kazimir said "he remains of the view that the ECB will have to raise interest rates at least one more time" to ensure that inflation risks don't spin out of control.
The markets are discounting an 89% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on September 10.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks are falling today, weighing on the broader market. The iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) is down more than -3% at a 1-week low. Sandisk (SNDK) is down more than -11% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and Western Digital (WDC) are down more than -6%. Also, Lam Research (LRCX), ASML Holding NV (ASML), Micron Technology (MU), Applied Materials (AMAT), and Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) are down more than -5%, and KLA Corp (KLAC) is down more than -4%. In addition, Marvell Technology (MRVL) is down more than -3%, and Intel (INTC) and Microchip Technology (MCHP) are down more than -2%.
Energy producers and service providers are sliding today amid the -6% decline in crude oil prices. ConocoPhillips (COP), Devon Energy (DVN), Diamondback Energy (FANG), and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) are down more than -2%. Also, Haliburton (HAL), APA Corp (APA), ExxonMobil Holdings (XOM), and Chevron (CVX) are down more than -1%.
MapLight Therapeutics (MPLT) is down more than -64% after posting results from a mid-stage trial of its experimental therapy to treat schizophrenia, which Stifel said did not meet the “upside case” scenario.
Nvidia (NVDA) is down more than -4% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials after announcing it had made a “substantial” investment in AI startup Safe Superintelligence.
Software stocks are rallying today, a supportive factor for the overall market. Workday (WDAY) is up more than +8% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100, and Atlassian (TEAM) is up more than +7%. Also, Autodesk (ADSK) and Oracle (ORCL) are up more than +5%, and Salesforce (CRM) is up more than +4% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials. In addition, Adobe (ADBE) is up more than +4%, and ServiceNow (NOW), Palantir Technologies (PLTR), and Intuit (INTU) are up more than +3%. Finally, Microsoft (MSFT) is up by more than +2%, and Datadog (DDOG) is up by more than +1%.
Airline stocks and cruise line operators are climbing today with the -6% plunge in crude oil prices. Alaska Air Group (ALK), Carnival (CCL), and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) are up more than +2%. Also, United Airlines Holdings (UAL), American Airlines Group (AAL), and Delta Air Lines (DAL) are up more than +1%. Also, Southwest Airlines (LUV) is up +0.53%.
Forte Biosciences (FBRX) is up more than +39% after Argenx SE agreed to buy the company for about $2.2 billion, or $77 a share.
D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) is up more than +16% after Benchmark Company LLC reinstated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $30.
IonQ (IONQ) is up more than +7% after Benchmark Company LLC reinstated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $60.
Baker Hughes (BKR) is up more than +6% after reporting Q2 revenue of $6.74 billion, better than the consensus of $6.51 billion.
Rocket Lab Corp. (RKLB) is up more than +2% after KGI Securities upgraded the stock to outperform from neutral with a price target of $107.
Earnings Reports (7/27/2026)
Rambus Inc (RMBS), Welltower Inc (WELL), Kilroy Realty Corp (KRC), Brown & Brown Inc (BRO), Principal Financial Group Inc (PFG), UDR Inc (UDR), Sanmina Corp (SANM), Nucor Corp (NUE), Sun Communities Inc (SUI), Universal Health Services Inc (UHS), Amkor Technology Inc (AMKR), F5 Inc (FFIV), Cincinnati Financial Corp (CINF), Element Solutions Inc (ESI), Applied Digital Corp (APLD), Cadence Design Systems Inc (CDNS), Brixmor Property Group Inc (BRX).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Fall from Early Highs as Chipmakers Retreat

SkyWest, Inc SKYW reported a narrower-than-expected result in the second-quarter of 2026, wherein both earnings and revenues missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
However, the result had a positive impact on the market. The stock has gained 7.7% since its earnings release on July 23.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Quarterly earnings per share (EPS) of $2.54 missed the consensus mark of $2.70 and declined 12.7% year over year. Revenues of $1.103 billion missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.106 billion and improved 6.5% year over year.
Revenues from flying agreements (contributing 96.5% to the top line) rose 7.8% year over year to $1.06 billion. The airline carried 1.3% fewer passengers in the reported quarter on a year-over-year basis. Departures increased 2.3% on a year-over-year basis. The passenger load factor (percentage of seats filled by passengers) fell 2.2 points to 80.6%.
SkyWest, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Concurrent with its second-quarter 2026 results, SkyWest intends to purchase and operate 11 new E175 aircraft under a multiyear flying contract for American Airlines AAL. The 11 new E175 aircraft are expected to replace 11 CRJ700s. SkyWest is currently flying under contract with American.
During the first half of 2026, the company took delivery of two E175 aircraft, one each for Alaska Airlines (ALK) and United Airlines (UAL).
By the end of 2027, SKYW anticipates having 300 E175 aircraft in its fleet. As previously announced, SkyWest entered into a purchase agreement with Embraer, which secures delivery positions for 33 additional E175s from 2028 through 2032 for potential future flying opportunities. The company’s purchase agreement with Embraer also includes purchase rights for 50 additional E175s, as previously announced.
Operating expenses were $947 million, up 9% year over year, owing to an expected rise in incremental direct operating costs associated with increased production in the reported quarter and higher pilot training costs.
At the end of the second quarter, the company had cash and marketable securities of $6 million compared with $707 million at the December-quarter end of 2025. Long-term debt (net of current maturities) was $1.64 billion compared with $1.85 billion reported at the end of the fourth quarter of 2025.
Capital expenditures during the reported quarter were $139 million, including the purchase of one new E175 aircraft, spare engines and other fixed assets.
SkyWest repurchased 783,000 shares for $75 million during the first quarter of 2026. As of March 31, 2026, SkyWest had $138 million available under its current share repurchase program.
SkyWest repurchased 833,000 shares of its common stock for approximately $75 million during the second quarter of 2026 at an average price of $89.55 per share. During the first half of 2026, SkyWest repurchased 1.6 million shares of its common stock for $150 million. As of June 30, 2026, SkyWest had approximately $63 million of remaining availability under its existing stock repurchase program. As announced today, SkyWest’s board of directors approved a $250 million increase to the existing stock repurchase program.
Currently, SKYW carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Q2 Performances of Other Transportation Companies
Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies WAB, operating as Wabtec Corporation, reported encouraging second-quarter 2026 results, wherein both earnings and revenues surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate and increased year over year.
Quarterly adjusted earnings of $2.76 per share beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.63 by 4.9% and increased 21.6% year over year, owing to higher sales and operating margin expansion.
Revenues climbed 17.5% to $3.18 billion and surpassed the consensus mark of $3.08 billion by 3.2%.
United Airlines Holdings, Inc. UAL reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $1.99 per share, down 48.6% year over year but above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.92 by 3.7%.
Operating revenues rose 16% to $17.67 billion and were essentially in line with the $17.68 billion consensus mark. A 12.1% increase in total revenues per available seat mile or TRASM, and broad-based gains across premium, loyalty and cargo revenues, supported the top line despite sharply higher fuel costs.
Zacks' Research Chief Names "Stock Most Likely to Double"
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This top pick is a little-known satellite-based communications firm. Space is projected to become a trillion dollar industry, and this company's customer base is growing fast. Analysts have forecasted a major revenue breakout in 2025. Of course, all our elite picks aren't winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks' Stocks Set to Double like Hims & Hers Health, which shot up +209%.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Indicator	TTM Median
P/E	47.71 26.63
Price/Sales	0.17 1.47
P/B	0.00 2.65
P/FCF	8.94 19.57

Indicator	TTM Median
ROE	0.00 14.40
ROA	0.32 5.89
ROI	0.97 8.74
Net Worth	9.78 1.31
Quick Ratio	0.38 1.17
Current Ratio	0.49 1.58

Indicator	TTM Median
Net Profit Margin	0.36 7.36
Operating Margin	3.03 9.96
Gross Margin	22.75 32.60
Return on tangible equity	0.00 25.62

Indicator	TTM Median
EPS	0.15 0.64
EPS Forecast	0.03 0.62
Revenue	13.91B 181.00M
Gross Profit	2.73B —
EBITDA	0.00 —

American Airlines Group, Inc.

Recent quarterly and TTM performance

Valuation

Debts

Efficiency

Other ratios

Revenue