Albemarle Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets engineered specialty chemicals worldwide. It operates through three segments: Energy Storage, Specialties and Ketjen. The Energy Storage segment offers lithium compounds, including lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide, and lithium chloride; technical services for the handling and use of reactive lithium products; and lithium-containing by-products recycling services. The Specialties segment provides bromine-based specialty chemicals, including elemental bromine, alkyl and inorganic bromides, brominated powdered activated carbon, and other bromine fine chemicals; lithium specialties, such as butyllithium and lithium aluminum hydride; develops and manufactures cesium products for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries; and zirconium, barium, and titanium products for pyrotechnical applications that include airbag initiators. The Ketjen segment offers clean fuels technologies (CFT), which is composed of hydroprocessing catalysts (HPC) together with isomerization and akylation catalysts; fluidized catalytic cracking (FCC) catalysts and additives; and performance catalyst solutions (PCS), which is composed of organometallics and curatives. The company serves the energy storage, petroleum refining, consumer electronics, construction, automotive, lubricants, pharmaceuticals, and crop protection markets. Albemarle Corporation was founded in 1887 and is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Albemarle Corporation

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) Monday closed down -0.25%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) closed down -0.45%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed down -0.36%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU25) fell -0.28%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU25) fell -0.40%.
Stock indexes on Monday gave up an early advance and settled lower. Position squaring and long liquidation pressures ahead of this week's US inflation reports on July CPI and PPI weighed on stocks Monday.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
Stocks on Monday initially moved higher, with the S&P 500 posting a 1-week high and the Nasdaq 10 posting a new record high. Recent dovish Fed comments have bolstered the outlook for Fed rate cuts sooner rather than later and are supportive of stocks. Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports an interest rate cut at the September FOMC meeting and that she favors three interest rate cuts this year. Stocks also garnered support Monday when CNBC reported that President Trump is extending the tariff truce with China, which was to expire on Tuesday, for another 90 days.
Stocks were also under pressure as hopes dim for an imminent end to the Russian-Ukrainian war. President Trump on Monday downplayed expectations of a breakthrough to end the war in Ukraine when he meets with Russian President Putin this Friday in Alaska, saying the summit is a "feel-out meeting" to end the war in Ukraine. Also, comments from Ukrainian President Zelenskiy dampened hopes for a quick end to the war when he rejected any talk of Ukraine ceding territory to Russia.
Stocks are seeing support from speculation that recent weaker-than-expected US economic news and dovish Fed commentary will push the Fed to lower interest rates as soon as next month. On Saturday, Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports cutting interest rates at the FOMC's next meeting in September and that she favors three rate cuts this year to "help avoid a further unnecessary erosion in labor market conditions and reduce the chance that the committee will need to implement a larger policy correction should the labor market deteriorate further." The chances of a Fed rate cut at the September FOMC meeting rose to 88% from 40% earlier this month.
The price of Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) rose more than +1% Monday to a 4-week high, boosted by strong demand from institutional investors and corporate buyers, which are helping to lift the entire cryptocurrency market. According to data from Coingecko, digital-asset treasury companies, listed vehicles that accumulate cryptocurrencies, have amassed a Bitcoin stockpile worth $113 billion thus far.
In recent tariff news, CNBC on Monday reported that President Trump will extend the tariff truce with China, which was to expire on Tuesday, for another 90 days. Last Wednesday, President Trump announced that he will impose a 100% tariff on semiconductor imports. Still, companies would be eligible for exemptions if they demonstrate a commitment to building their products in the US. However, the US will levy a separate tax on imports of electronic products that employ semiconductors. Also, President Trump announced last Wednesday that he will double tariffs on US imports from India to 50% from the current 25% tariff, due to India's purchases of Russian oil. Last Tuesday, Mr. Trump said that US tariffs on pharmaceutical imports would be announced "within the next week or so." According to Bloomberg Economics, the average US tariff will rise to 15.2% if rates are implemented as announced, up from 13.3% earlier, and significantly higher than the 2.3% in 2024 before the tariffs were announced.
The market's focus this week will be on corporate earnings results and any new trade or tariff news. On Tuesday, the July US CPI is expected to edge up to +2.8% y/y from +2.7% y/y in June, and the July CPI ex-food and energy is expected to climb +3.0% y/y from +2.9% y/y in June. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to fall by -1,000 to 225,000. Also on Thursday, the July final-demand PPI is expected to increase to +2.5% y/y from +2.3% y/y in June, and the July PPI ex-food and energy is expected to rise to +2.9% y/y from +2.6% y/y in June. On Friday, July US retail sales are expected to climb +0.5% m/m and retail sales ex-autos are expected to rise +0.3% m/m. Also on Friday, July manufacturing production is expected to remain unchanged m/m. Finally, the University of Michigan's Aug US consumer sentiment index is expected to climb by +0.3 to 62.0.
Federal funds futures prices are discounting the chances for a -25 bp rate cut at 88% at the September 16-17 FOMC meeting and 62% at the following meeting on October 28-29.
Earnings reports indicate that S&P 500 earnings for Q2 are on track to rise +9.1% y/y, much better than the pre-season expectations of +2.8% y/y and the most in four years, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. With over 82% of S&P 500 firms having reported Q2 earnings, about 82% of companies exceeded profit estimates.
Overseas stock markets on Monday settled mixed. The Euro Stoxx 50 fell from a 1-week high and closed down -0.30%. China's Shanghai Composite rallied to a 10-month high and closed up +0.34%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 was closed today for the Mountain Day holiday.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU25) Monday closed up +2 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield fell -0.4 bp to 4.279%. T-notes posted modest gains on Monday on mounting speculation that the Fed may soon cut interest rates after Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports an interest rate cut at the September FOMC meeting and that she favors three interest rate cuts this year. T-notes also have carryover support from last Thursday, when President Trump nominated Stephen Miran for Fed Governor to replace Adriana Kugler for the rest of the year. Miran views President Trump's policies as disinflationary and would support a more dovish Fed policy.
European government bond yields on Monday settled mixed. The 10-year German bund yield rose by +0.6 bp to 2.696%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell -3.6 bp to 4.565%.
Swaps are discounting the chances at 6% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at the September 11 policy meeting.
US Stock Movers
Monday.com (MNDY) closed down more than -29% on growth concerns after it failed to boost its full-year revenue guidance from the current estimate of $1.22 billion to $1.23 billion.
C3.ai (AI) closed down more than -25% after DA Davidson downgraded the stock to underperform from neutral with a price target of $13, citing preliminary earnings results that were "significantly below guidance."
AAON Inc. (AAON) closed down more than -10% after reporting Q2 EPS of 19 cents, well below the consensus of 32 cents.
Upstart Holdings (UPST) closed down more than -7% after announcing it will offer $500 million of convertible senior notes due in 2032 in a private offering.
Atlassian Corp (TEAM) closed down more than -5% as analysts have cut their price targets for the stock by an average of 11% since it posted earnings last Thursday.
Hershey (HSY) closed down more than -4% to lead chocolate makers lower on demand concerns after cocoa prices jumped more than +2% to a 6-week high.
Paramount Skydance (PSKY) closed down more than -3% after paying $7.7 billion to acquire the exclusive rights to show all events from the Ultimate Fighting Championship in the US over the next seven years.
TKO Group Holdings (TKO) closed up more than +10% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after Paramount Skydance acquired the rights to show all events from the Ultimate Fighting Championship in the US over the next seven years for $7.7 billion.
Elf Beauty (ELF) closed up more than +10% after Morgan Stanley upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $134.
Electronic Arts (EA) closed up more than +5% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after it successfully tested a beta launch for its Battlefield 6 video game.
Cryptocurrency-linked stocks moved higher on Monday after the price of Bitcoin rose by more than +1% to a 4-week high. As a result, Coinbase Global (COIN), MicroStrategy (MSTR), and MARA Holdings (MARA) closed up more than +1%.
Sapiens International Corp NV (SPNS) closed up more than +8% after Calcalist reported that Formula Systems is in advanced talks to sell control of the company for about $2 billion.
Albemarle (ALB) closed up +7% after operations were halted at a major Chinese mine, spurring speculation that the Chinese government might move to suspend other lithium projects to tackle overcapacity concerns.
Micron Technology (MU) closed up more than +4% after raising its fiscal Q4 sales estimate to $11.2 billion, plus or minus $100 million, from a previous estimate of $10.7 billion, plus or minus $300 million.
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions (KTOS) closed up more than +2% after Canaccord Genuity initiated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $74.
Earnings Reports (8/12/2025)
Cardinal Health Inc (CAH), Cava Group Inc (CAVA), Everus Construction Group Inc (ECG), H&R Block Inc (HRB), Lumentum Holdings Inc (LITE), Madison Square Garden Sports C (MSGS), On Holding AG (ONON), Smithfield Foods Inc (SFD).
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 Decline Ahead of US Inflation News

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -0.16%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -0.40%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down - 0.26%.
Stock indexes today are negative. Dovish Fed comments have pushed T-note yields lower, with the 10-year T-note yield down -2 bp to 4.26% after Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports an interest rate cut at the September FOMC meeting and that she favors three interest rate cuts this year. However, stocks fell back from their best levels on position squaring and long liquidation ahead of this week's US inflation reports on July CPI and PPI.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
Strength in chip makers is also a supportive factor for stocks today after Bloomberg reported that Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices agreed to pay 15% of revenue from China chip sales to the US government, which boosts optimism that chip export restrictions to China will be eased. Also, Micron Technology is up more than +3% after raising its Q4 sales estimate.
Hopes have dimmed for an imminent end to the Russian-Ukrainian war. Markets last week initially found support on news of a Trump-Putin summit this Friday in Alaska. However, over the weekend, comments from Ukrainian President Zelenskiy dampened hopes for a quick end to the war when he rejected any talk of Ukraine ceding territory to Russia.
On Saturday, Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports cutting interest rates at the FOMC's next meeting in September and that she favors three rate cuts this year to "help avoid a further unnecessary erosion in labor market conditions and reduce the chance that the committee will need to implement a larger policy correction should the labor market deteriorate further." The chances of a Fed rate cut at the September FOMC meeting rose to 89% from 40% earlier this month.
The price of Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) is up more than +0.5% today , boosted by strong demand from institutional investors and corporate buyers, which are helping to lift the entire cryptocurrency market. According to data from Coingecko, digital-asset treasury companies, listed vehicles that accumulate cryptocurrencies, have amassed a Bitcoin stockpile worth $113 billion thus far.
In recent tariff news, President Trump announced last Wednesday that he will impose a 100% tariff on semiconductor imports. Still, companies would be eligible for exemptions if they demonstrate a commitment to building their products in the US. However, the US will levy a separate tax on imports of electronic products that employ semiconductors. Also, President Trump announced last Wednesday that he will double tariffs on US imports from India to 50% from the current 25% tariff, due to India's purchases of Russian oil. Last Tuesday, Mr. Trump said that US tariffs on pharmaceutical imports would be announced "within the next week or so." According to Bloomberg Economics, the average US tariff will rise to 15.2% if rates are implemented as announced, up from 13.3% earlier, and significantly higher than the 2.3% in 2024 before the tariffs were announced.
The market's focus this week will be on corporate earnings results and any new trade or tariff news. On Tuesday, the July US CPI is expected to edge up to +2.8% y/y from +2.7% y/y in June, and the July CPI ex-food and energy is expected to climb +3.0% y/y from +2.9% y/y in June. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to fall by -1,000 to 225,000. Also on Thursday, the July final-demand PPI is expected to increase to +2.5% y/y from +2.3% y/y in June, and the July PPI ex-food and energy is expected to rise to +2.9% y/y from +2.6% y/y in June. On Friday, July US retail sales are expected to climb +0.5% m/m and retail sales ex-autos are expected to rise +0.3% m/m. Also on Friday, July manufacturing production is expected to remain unchanged m/m. Finally, the University of Michigan's Aug US consumer sentiment index is expected to climb by +0.3 to 62.0.
Federal funds futures prices are discounting the chances for a -25 bp rate cut at 89% at the September 16-17 FOMC meeting and 62% at the following meeting on October 28-29.
Earnings reports indicate that S&P 500 earnings for Q2 are on track to rise +9.1% y/y, much better than the pre-season expectations of +2.8% y/y and the most in four years, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. With over 82% of S&P 500 firms having reported Q2 earnings, about 82% of companies exceeded profit estimates.
Overseas stock markets today are mixed. The Euro Stoxx 50 fell from a 1-week high and is down -0.31%. China's Shanghai Composite rallied to a 10-month high and closed up +0.34%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 was closed today for the Mountain Day holiday.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU25) today are up by +3 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down -1.9 bp to 4.264%. T-notes are moving higher on mounting speculation that the Fed may soon cut interest rates after Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports an interest rate cut at the September FOMC meeting and that she favors three interest rate cuts this year. T-notes also have carryover support from last Thursday, when President Trump nominated Stephen Miran for Fed Governor to replace Adriana Kugler for the rest of the year. Miran views President Trump's policies as disinflationary and would support a more dovish Fed policy.
European government bond yields today are mixed. The 10-year German bund yield is up +0.4 bp to 2.694%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -3.8 bp to 4.563%.
Swaps are discounting the chances at 6% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at the September 11 policy meeting.
US Stock Movers
Semiconductor stocks are climbing today after Bloomberg reported that Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices agreed to pay 15% of revenue from China chip sales to the US government, which boosts optimism that chip export restrictions to China will be eased. ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) is up more than +3%. Also, ON Semiconductor (ON), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), and Marvell Technology (MRVL) are up more than +2%. In addition, Applied Materials (AMAT), Analog Devices (ADI), Qualcomm (QCOM), and Lam Research (LRCX) are up more than +1%.
Micron Technology (MU) is up more than +3% after raising its fiscal Q4 sales estimate to $11.2 billion, plus or minus $100 million, from a previous estimate of $10.7 billion, plus or minus $300 million.
Cryptocurrency-linked stocks are climbing today after the price of Bitcoin rose by more than +2% to a 4-week high. As a result, Coinbase Global (COIN), MicroStrategy (MSTR), MARA Holdings (MARA), and Riot Platforms (RIOT) are up more than +3%.
Sapiens International Corp NV (SPNS) is up more than +12% after Calcalist reported that Formula Systems is in advanced talks to sell control of the company for about $2 billion.
Albemarle (ALB) is up more than +9% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after operations were halted at a major Chinese mine, spurring speculation that the Chinese government might move to suspend other lithium projects to tackle overcapacity concerns.
Elf Beauty (ELF) is up more than +8% after Morgan Stanley upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $134.
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions (KTOS) is up more than +5% after Canaccord Genuity initiated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $74.
Intel (INTC) is up more than +4% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after the Wall Street Journal reported that CEO Lip-Bu Tan is scheduled to meet with President Trump later today.
Monday.com (MNDY) is down more than -26% after reporting Q2 cash and cash equivalents of $1.59 billion, below the consensus of $1.61 billion.
C3.ai (AI) is down more than -23% after DA Davidson downgraded the stock to underperform from neutral with a price target of $13, citing preliminary earnings results that were "significantly below guidance."
AAON Inc. (AAON) is down more than -13% after reporting Q2 EPS of 19 cents, well below the consensus of 32 cents.
Hershey (HSY) is down more than -5% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and chocolate makers on demand concerns after cocoa prices surged more than +9% to a 6-week high.
Upstart Holdings (UPST) is down more than -4% after announcing it will offer $500 million of convertible senior notes due in 2032 in a private offering.
Earnings Reports (8/11/2025)
AAON Inc (AAON), AST SpaceMobile Inc (ASTS), Celanese Corp (CE), Ralliant Corp (RAL), Roivant Sciences Ltd (ROIV).
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 Turn Negative Ahead of This Week's Key Inflation Reports

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -0.06%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -0.34%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +0.08%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU25) are down -0.05%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU25) are up +0.09%.
Stock indexes today are mixed, with the Nasdaq 100 posting a new all-time high. Dovish Fed comments have pushed T-note yields lower, with the 10-year T-note yield down -2 bp to 4.26% after Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports an interest rate cut at the September FOMC meeting and that she favors three interest rate cuts this year. However, stocks fell back from their best levels on position squaring and long liquidation ahead of this week's US inflation reports on July CPI and PPI.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
Strength in chip makers is also a supportive factor for stocks today after Bloomberg reported that Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices agreed to pay 15% of revenue from China chip sales to the US government, which boosts optimism that chip export restrictions to China will be eased. Also, Micron Technology is up more than +4% after raising its Q4 sales estimate.
Gains in stocks are limited as hopes dim for an imminent end to the Russian-Ukrainian war. Markets last week initially found support on news of a Trump-Putin summit this Friday in Alaska. However, over the weekend, comments from Ukrainian President Zelenskiy dampened hopes for a quick end to the war when he rejected any talk of Ukraine ceding territory to Russia.
Stocks are seeing support from speculation that weaker-than-expected US economic news and recent dovish Fed commentary will push the Fed to lower interest rates as soon as next month. On Saturday, Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports cutting interest rates at the FOMC's next meeting in September and that she favors three rate cuts this year to "help avoid a further unnecessary erosion in labor market conditions and reduce the chance that the committee will need to implement a larger policy correction should the labor market deteriorate further." The chances of a Fed rate cut at the September FOMC meeting rose to 89% from 40% earlier this month.
The price of Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) is up more than +2% today at a 4-week high, boosted by strong demand from institutional investors and corporate buyers, which are helping to lift the entire cryptocurrency market. According to data from Coingecko, digital-asset treasury companies, listed vehicles that accumulate cryptocurrencies, have amassed a Bitcoin stockpile worth $113 billion thus far.
In recent tariff news, President Trump announced last Wednesday that he will impose a 100% tariff on semiconductor imports. Still, companies would be eligible for exemptions if they demonstrate a commitment to building their products in the US. However, the US will levy a separate tax on imports of electronic products that employ semiconductors. Also, President Trump announced last Wednesday that he will double tariffs on US imports from India to 50% from the current 25% tariff, due to India's purchases of Russian oil. Last Tuesday, Mr. Trump said that US tariffs on pharmaceutical imports would be announced "within the next week or so." According to Bloomberg Economics, the average US tariff will rise to 15.2% if rates are implemented as announced, up from 13.3% earlier, and significantly higher than the 2.3% in 2024 before the tariffs were announced.
The market's focus this week will be on corporate earnings results and any new trade or tariff news. On Tuesday, the July US CPI is expected to edge up to +2.8% y/y from +2.7% y/y in June, and the July CPI ex-food and energy is expected to climb +3.0% y/y from +2.9% y/y in June. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to fall by -1,000 to 225,000. Also on Thursday, the July final-demand PPI is expected to increase to +2.5% y/y from +2.3% y/y in June, and the July PPI ex-food and energy is expected to rise to +2.9% y/y from +2.6% y/y in June. On Friday, July US retail sales are expected to climb +0.5% m/m and retail sales ex-autos are expected to rise +0.3% m/m. Also on Friday, July manufacturing production is expected to remain unchanged m/m. Finally, the University of Michigan's Aug US consumer sentiment index is expected to climb by +0.3 to 62.0.
Federal funds futures prices are discounting the chances for a -25 bp rate cut at 89% at the September 16-17 FOMC meeting and 62% at the following meeting on October 28-29.
Earnings reports indicate that S&P 500 earnings for Q2 are on track to rise +9.1% y/y, much better than the pre-season expectations of +2.8% y/y and the most in four years, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. With over 82% of S&P 500 firms having reported Q2 earnings, about 82% of companies exceeded profit estimates.
Overseas stock markets today are mixed. The Euro Stoxx 50 fell from a 1-week high and is down -0.31%. China's Shanghai Composite rallied to a 10-month high and closed up +0.34%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 was closed today for the Mountain Day holiday.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU25) today are up by +3 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down -1.9 bp to 4.264%. T-notes are moving higher on mounting speculation that the Fed may soon cut interest rates after Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports an interest rate cut at the September FOMC meeting and that she favors three interest rate cuts this year. T-notes also have carryover support from last Thursday, when President Trump nominated Stephen Miran for Fed Governor to replace Adriana Kugler for the rest of the year. Miran views President Trump's policies as disinflationary and would support a more dovish Fed policy.
European government bond yields today are mixed. The 10-year German bund yield is up +0.4 bp to 2.694%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -3.8 bp to 4.563%.
Swaps are discounting the chances at 6% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at the September 11 policy meeting.
US Stock Movers
Semiconductor stocks are climbing today after Bloomberg reported that Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices agreed to pay 15% of revenue from China chip sales to the US government, which boosts optimism that chip export restrictions to China will be eased. ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) is up more than +3%. Also, ON Semiconductor (ON), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), and Marvell Technology (MRVL) are up more than +2%. In addition, Applied Materials (AMAT), Analog Devices (ADI), Qualcomm (QCOM), and Lam Research (LRCX) are up more than +1%.
Micron Technology (MU) is up more than +3% after raising its fiscal Q4 sales estimate to $11.2 billion, plus or minus $100 million, from a previous estimate of $10.7 billion, plus or minus $300 million.
Cryptocurrency-linked stocks are climbing today after the price of Bitcoin rose by more than +2% to a 4-week high. As a result, Coinbase Global (COIN), MicroStrategy (MSTR), MARA Holdings (MARA), and Riot Platforms (RIOT) are up more than +3%.
Sapiens International Corp NV (SPNS) is up more than +12% after Calcalist reported that Formula Systems is in advanced talks to sell control of the company for about $2 billion.
Albemarle (ALB) is up more than +9% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after operations were halted at a major Chinese mine, spurring speculation that the Chinese government might move to suspend other lithium projects to tackle overcapacity concerns.
Elf Beauty (ELF) is up more than +8% after Morgan Stanley upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $134.
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions (KTOS) is up more than +5% after Canaccord Genuity initiated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $74.
Intel (INTC) is up more than +4% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after the Wall Street Journal reported that CEO Lip-Bu Tan is scheduled to meet with President Trump later today.
Monday.com (MNDY) is down more than -26% after reporting Q2 cash and cash equivalents of $1.59 billion, below the consensus of $1.61 billion.
C3.ai (AI) is down more than -23% after DA Davidson downgraded the stock to underperform from neutral with a price target of $13, citing preliminary earnings results that were "significantly below guidance."
AAON Inc. (AAON) is down more than -13% after reporting Q2 EPS of 19 cents, well below the consensus of 32 cents.
Hershey (HSY) is down more than -5% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and chocolate makers on demand concerns after cocoa prices surged more than +9% to a 6-week high.
Upstart Holdings (UPST) is down more than -4% after announcing it will offer $500 million of convertible senior notes due in 2032 in a private offering.
Earnings Reports (8/11/2025)
AAON Inc (AAON), AST SpaceMobile Inc (ASTS), Celanese Corp (CE), Ralliant Corp (RAL), Roivant Sciences Ltd (ROIV).
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 Turn Mixed Ahead of This Week's Key Inflation Reports

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.06%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.11%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +0.04%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU25) are up +0.04%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU25) are up +0.05%.
Stock indexes today are slightly higher, with the Nasdaq 100 posting a new all-time high as dovish Fed comments pushed T-note yields lower. The 10-year T-note yield is down -1 bp to 4.27% after Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports an interest rate cut at the September FOMC meeting and that she favors three interest rate cuts this year.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
Strength in chip makers is also a supportive factor for stocks today after Bloomberg reported that Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices agreed to pay 15% of revenue from China chip sales to the US government, which boosts optimism that chip export restrictions to China will be eased. Also, Micron Technology is up more than +5% after raising its Q4 sales estimate.
Gains in stocks are limited as hopes dim for an imminent end to the Russian-Ukrainian war. Markets last week initially found support on news of a Trump-Putin summit this Friday in Alaska. However, over the weekend, comments from Ukrainian President Zelenskiy dampened hopes for a quick end to the war when he rejected any talk of Ukraine ceding territory to Russia.
Stocks are seeing support from speculation that weaker-than-expected US economic news and recent dovish Fed commentary will push the Fed to lower interest rates as soon as next month. On Saturday, Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports cutting interest rates at the FOMC's next meeting in September and that she favors three rate cuts this year to "help avoid a further unnecessary erosion in labor market conditions and reduce the chance that the committee will need to implement a larger policy correction should the labor market deteriorate further." The chances of a Fed rate cut at the September FOMC meeting rose to 89% from 40% earlier this month.
The price of Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) is up more than +2% at a 4-week high, boosted by strong demand from institutional investors and corporate buyers, which are helping to lift the entire cryptocurrency market. According to data from Coingecko, digital-asset treasury companies, listed vehicles that accumulate cryptocurrencies, have amassed a Bitcoin stockpile worth $113 billion thus far.
In recent tariff news, President Trump announced last Wednesday that he will impose a 100% tariff on semiconductor imports. Still, companies would be eligible for exemptions if they demonstrate a commitment to building their products in the US. However, the US will levy a separate tax on imports of electronic products that employ semiconductors. Also, President Trump announced last Wednesday that he will double tariffs on US imports from India to 50% from the current 25% tariff, due to India's purchases of Russian oil. Last Tuesday, Mr. Trump said that US tariffs on pharmaceutical imports would be announced "within the next week or so." According to Bloomberg Economics, the average US tariff will rise to 15.2% if rates are implemented as announced, up from 13.3% earlier, and significantly higher than the 2.3% in 2024 before the tariffs were announced.
The market's focus this week will be on corporate earnings results and any new trade or tariff news. On Tuesday, the July US CPI is expected to edge up to +2.8% y/y from +2.7% y/y in June, and the July CPI ex-food and energy is expected to climb +3.0% y/y from +2.9% y/y in June. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to fall by -1,000 to 225,000. Also on Thursday, the July final-demand PPI is expected to increase to +2.5% y/y from +2.3% y/y in June, and the July PPI ex-food and energy is expected to rise to +2.9% y/y from +2.6% y/y in June. On Friday, July US retail sales are expected to climb +0.5% m/m and retail sales ex-autos are expected to rise +0.3% m/m. Also on Friday, July manufacturing production is expected to remain unchanged m/m. Finally, the University of Michigan’s Aug US consumer sentiment index is expected to climb by +0.3 to 62.0.
Federal funds futures prices are discounting the chances for a -25 bp rate cut at 89% at the September 16-17 FOMC meeting and 62% at the following meeting on October 28-29.
Earnings reports indicate that S&P 500 earnings for Q2 are on track to rise +9.1% y/y, much better than the pre-season expectations of +2.8% y/y and the most in four years, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. With over 82% of S&P 500 firms having reported Q2 earnings, about 82% of companies exceeded profit estimates.
Overseas stock markets today are mixed. The Euro Stoxx 50 fell from a 1-week high and is down -0.06%. China's Shanghai Composite rallied to a 10-month high and closed up +0.34%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 was closed today for the Mountain Day holiday.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU25) today are up by +3 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down -1.4 bp to 4.269%. T-notes are moving higher on mounting speculation that the Fed may soon cut interest rates after Fed Governor Michelle Bowman said she supports an interest rate cut at the September FOMC meeting and that she favors three interest rate cuts this year. T-notes also have carryover support from last Thursday when President Trump nominated Stephen Miran for Fed Governor to replace Adriana Kugler for the rest of the year. Miran views President Trump's policies as disinflationary and would support a more dovish Fed policy.
European government bond yields today are mixed. The 10-year German bund yield is up +0.1 bp to 2.691%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -3.3 bp to 4.568%.
Swaps are discounting the chances at 6% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at the September 11 policy meeting.
US Stock Movers
Semiconductor stocks are climbing today after Bloomberg reported that Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices agreed to pay 15% of revenue from China chip sales to the US government, which boosts optimism that chip export restrictions to China will be eased. ON Semiconductor (ON), Applied Materials (AMAT), Qualcomm (QCOM), KLA Corp (KLAC), Lam Research (LRCX), NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), and Marvell Technology (MRVL) are up more than +1%. However, Nvidia (NVDA) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) are down nearly 1% on the news.
Micron Technology (MU) is up more than +6% after raising its fiscal Q4 sales estimate to $11.2 billion, plus or minus $100 million, from a previous estimate of $10.7 billion, plus or minus $300 million.
Cryptocurrency-linked stocks are climbing today after the price of Bitcoin rose by more than +2% to a 4-week high. As a result, Coinbase Global (COIN), MicroStrategy (MSTR), MARA Holdings (MARA), and Riot Platforms (RIOT) are up more than +3%.
Sapiens International Corp NV (SPNS) is up more than +18% after Calcalist reported that Formula Systems is in advanced talks to sell control of the company for about $2 billion.
Albemarle (ALB) is up more than +13% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after operations were halted at a major Chinese mine, spurring speculation that the Chinese government might move to suspend other lithium projects to tackle overcapacity concerns.
Elf Beauty (ELF) is up more than +6% after Morgan Stanley upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $134.
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions (KTOS) is up more than +5% after Canaccord Genuity initiated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $74.
Generac Holdings (GNRC) is up more than +2% after Jeffries upgraded the stock to hold from underperform with a price target of $200.
AeroVironment (AVAV) is up more than +2% after Canaccord Genuity initiated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $305.
C3.ai (AI) is down more than -29% after DA Davidson downgraded the stock to underperform from neutral with a price target of $13, citing preliminary earnings results that were "significantly below guidance."
Monday.com (MNDY) is down more than -27% after reporting Q2 cash and cash equivalents of $1.59 billion, below the consensus of $1.61 billion.
AAON Inc. (AAON) is down more than -21% after reporting Q2 EPS of 19 cents, well below the consensus of 32 cents.
Hershey (HSY) is down more than -3% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and chocolate makers on demand concerns after cocoa prices surged more than +9% to a 6-week high.
Upstart Holdings (UPST) is down more than -1% after announcing it will offer $500 million of convertible senior notes due in 2032 in a private offering.
Earnings Reports (8/11/2025)
AAON Inc (AAON), AST SpaceMobile Inc (ASTS), Celanese Corp (CE), Ralliant Corp (RAL), Roivant Sciences Ltd (ROIV).
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 Supported by Fed Rate Cut Speculation and Strength in Chip Makers

In early trading on Monday, shares of Albemarle topped the list of the day's best performing components of the S&P 500 index, trading up 10.3%. Year to date, Albemarle has lost about 3.3% of its value.
And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Paramount Global, trading down 6.0%. Paramount Global is showing a gain of 5.5% looking at the year to date performance.
Two other components making moves today are Apple, trading down 1.4%, and Intel, trading up 4.8% on the day.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

S&P 500 Movers: PARA, ALB

Key Points
Non-GAAP earnings per share reached $0.11 in Q2 2025, beating the estimate of $(0.84).
GAAP revenue was $1,330.0 million in Q2 2025, exceeding the GAAP estimate of $1,222.6 million but fell 7.0 % year over year.
Adjusted EBITDA declined 12.9% year over year, mainly due to lower lithium prices despite volume gains.
Albemarle (NYSE:ALB), a leading producer of lithium and specialty chemicals, released its second quarter 2025 earnings on July 30, 2025. The headline: Albemarle outperformed analyst estimates on both GAAP revenue and non-GAAP EPS, even as persistent weakness in lithium prices pressured its key Energy Storage segment. Non-GAAP earnings per share were $0.11, well above the $(0.84) forecast, while GAAP revenue reached $1,330.0 million, beating the consensus estimate of $1,222.6 million. However, Both net sales and adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) declined compared to the prior-year period. The results show the effects of strong volumes, improved productivity, and tight cost control, against ongoing market headwinds.
Metric
Q2 2025
Q2 2025 Estimate
Q2 2024
Y/Y Change
EPS (Non-GAAP)
$0.11
$(0.84)
$0.04
175.0 %
Revenue
$1,330.0 million
$1,222.6 million
$1,430.4 million
(7.0 %)
Adjusted EBITDA
$336.5 million
$386.4 million
(12.9 %)
Revenue – Energy Storage segment
$717.7 million
$830.1 million
(13.5 %)
Revenue – Specialties segment
$351.6 million
$334.6 million
5.1%
Source: Analyst estimates provided by FactSet. Management expectations based on management's guidance, as provided in Q1 2025 earnings report.
What Albemarle Does and Where It’s Focused
Albemarle is a global leader in lithium production, supplying compounds essential for lithium-ion batteries powering electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage. Its business includes three core segments: Energy Storage (mainly lithium), Specialties (bromine and customized lithium solutions), and Ketjen (catalysts and refining chemicals).
The Energy Storage segment is the largest, delivering lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide to battery manufacturers. The Specialties segment makes bromine-based chemicals for fire safety and lithium products for pharmaceuticals and electronics. Over the past several quarters, Albemarle has focused on ramping up lithium production capacity, driving productivity, reducing capital spending, and tightening its contract mix to manage market swings in lithium prices. Success now depends on maintaining cost leadership, securing stable supply contracts, investing smartly for future growth, and keeping its balance sheet strong.
Quarter in Review: Major Moves and Financial Reality
The quarter showcased sharp contrasts between volume growth (+15%) and pricing pressure (-28%), especially in the Energy Storage segment. Energy Storage sales fell 13.5% year over year as the average selling price for lithium dropped 28%, but volumes increased by 15%, thanks to expanded production at sites like La Negra and Meishan. About half of Albemarle's 2025 lithium sales are protected by long-term contracts with floor prices, but the remainder faces exposure to weaker spot market prices. Segment adjusted EBITDA for Energy Storage slipped 22.4%, as savings from cost-cutting initiatives partly offset the pricing decline.
Specialties delivered stability, with segment sales up 5.1% year over year. and adjusted EBITDA surged 34.7% year over year. The segment's mix of bromine compounds (used in fire safety and industrial applications) and specialty lithium solutions (used in pharmaceuticals and electronics) benefited from higher volumes in health care, automobiles, and oilfields. This growth was enough to overcome incremental price pressure and weaker demand in construction. Management stated, “volume growth in key end markets led by pharma, automotive, and oilfield, partially offset by weakness in building and construction.”
The Ketjen segment, which offers catalyst products for refining and petrochemical customers, saw sales decline 1.8%. and adjusted EBITDA dropped 24.5%. Factors included order timing and higher input costs.
Beyond the numbers, Albemarle achieved a 100% run-rate against the high end of its $400 million cost and productivity improvement target. Capital expenditures were sharply reduced, with full-year 2025 guidance cut to $650–700 million, down 60% from $1.7 billion in 2024. This reflects the completion of major expansion projects and a strategic pivot toward financial flexibility. Operating cash flow (GAAP) for the first half of 2025 reached $538 million, up $73 million from the previous year. Estimated liquidity stood at $3.4 billion, including $1.8 billion in cash as of June 30, 2025. No new acquisitions were announced.
Albemarle redeemed preferred shares in its Grace subsidiary for $307 million during Q2 2025. Tax dynamics were volatile, with the adjusted effective tax rate spiking to 159.9% in Q2 2025, due to changes in income mix and tax allowances in Australia and China. No new sustainability targets were reported, but management reaffirmed existing goals for cutting carbon and water usage. As of December 31, 2024, Albemarle owned over 1,650 active patents.
Looking Ahead: Guidance and Investor Watchpoints
Management maintained its outlook for full-year 2025, assuming no material change in lithium market prices. Guidance calls for FY2025 net sales of $4.9–5.2 billion and adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) of $800–1,000 million, at an average lithium carbonate equivalent price of about $9 per kilogram. The Energy Storage segment is projected to generate $2.5–2.6 billion in sales and $600–700 million in adjusted EBITDA for FY2025. For Specialties, FY2025 guidance is $1.3–1.5 billion in sales and $210–280 million in adjusted EBITDA. Ketjen is forecast at $1.0–1.1 billion in sales and $120–150 million in adjusted EBITDA for FY2025. No changes were made to these targets from prior-quarter guidance.
Leadership said, “We now expect to achieve positive free cash flow for the full year 2025 assuming current lithium market pricing persists.” Investors should monitor further developments in lithium prices, the contract mix between spot and floor-priced agreements, any progress—or risks—in cost discipline, and the level of future investment. Margin pressure, tax rate volatility, and discipline in managing capital expenditures will remain material variables in upcoming quarters.
Revenue and net income presented using U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) unless otherwise noted.
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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.

Albemarle (ALB) Q2 Revenue Jumps

The worst performing sector as of midday Monday is the Materials sector, showing a 1.5% loss. Within that group, Albemarle Corp. (Symbol: ALB) and Freeport-McMoran Copper & Gold (Symbol: FCX) are two of the day's laggards, showing a loss of 10.2% and 3.6%, respectively. Among the high volume ETFs, one ETF closely following materials stocks is the Materials Select Sector SPDR ETF (Symbol: XLB), which is down 1.5% on the day, and up 9.10% year-to-date. Albemarle Corp., meanwhile, is down 11.75% year-to-date, and Freeport-McMoran Copper & Gold is up 14.82% year-to-date. Combined, ALB and FCX make up approximately 5.9% of the underlying holdings of XLB.
The next worst performing sector is the Utilities sector, showing a 1.2% loss. Among large Utilities stocks, CenterPoint Energy, Inc (Symbol: CNP) and Eversource Energy (Symbol: ES) are the most notable, showing a loss of 2.4% and 2.1%, respectively. One ETF closely tracking Utilities stocks is the Utilities Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLU), which is down 1.1% in midday trading, and up 11.86% on a year-to-date basis. CenterPoint Energy, Inc, meanwhile, is up 19.43% year-to-date, and Eversource Energy is up 16.14% year-to-date. Combined, CNP and ES make up approximately 3.8% of the underlying holdings of XLU.
Comparing these stocks and ETFs on a trailing twelve month basis, below is a relative stock price performance chart, with each of the symbols shown in a different color as labeled in the legend at the bottom:
Here's a snapshot of how the S&P 500 components within the various sectors are faring in afternoon trading on Monday. As you can see, two sectors are up on the day, while seven sectors are down.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Monday Sector Laggards: Materials, Utilities

In early trading on Monday, shares of Advanced Micro Devices topped the list of the day's best performing components of the S&P 500 index, trading up 3.7%. Year to date, Advanced Micro Devices registers a 42.9% gain.
And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Revvity, trading down 9.5%. Revvity is lower by about 15.9% looking at the year to date performance.
Two other components making moves today are Albemarle, trading down 8.5%, and Super Micro Computer, trading up 3.4% on the day.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

S&P 500 Movers: RVTY, AMD

Looking at options trading activity among components of the S&P 500 index, there is noteworthy activity today in Albemarle Corp. (Symbol: ALB), where a total volume of 25,570 contracts has been traded thus far today, a contract volume which is representative of approximately 2.6 million underlying shares (given that every 1 contract represents 100 underlying shares). That number works out to 55% of ALB's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 4.7 million shares. Especially high volume was seen for the $100 strike call option expiring January 16, 2026, with 5,190 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 519,000 underlying shares of ALB. Below is a chart showing ALB's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $100 strike highlighted in orange:
Vistra Corp (Symbol: VST) saw options trading volume of 26,609 contracts, representing approximately 2.7 million underlying shares or approximately 52.3% of VST's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 5.1 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $202.50 strike call option expiring August 01, 2025, with 3,430 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 343,000 underlying shares of VST. Below is a chart showing VST's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $202.50 strike highlighted in orange:
And DoorDash Inc (Symbol: DASH) saw options trading volume of 17,541 contracts, representing approximately 1.8 million underlying shares or approximately 49.2% of DASH's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 3.6 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $250 strike call option expiring July 25, 2025, with 5,586 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 558,600 underlying shares of DASH. Below is a chart showing DASH's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $250 strike highlighted in orange:
For the various different available expirations for ALB options, VST options, or DASH options, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
AHR Dividend Growth Rate
Institutional Holders of OAIE
Top Ten Hedge Funds Holding WLYB
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Notable Friday Option Activity: ALB, VST, DASH

In trading on Thursday, the VanEck Rare Earth/Strategic Metals ETF is outperforming other ETFs, up about 4.6% on the day. Components of that ETF showing particular strength include shares of Sigma Lithium, up about 7.6% and shares of Albemarle, up about 7.2% on the day.
And underperforming other ETFs today is the U.S. Global Jets ETF, down about 3.2% in Thursday afternoon trading. Among components of that ETF with the weakest showing on Thursday were shares of Southwest Airlines, lower by about 11.8%, and shares of American Airlines Group, lower by about 7.9% on the day.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Albemarle Corporation

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