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 демонстрирует смешанную фундаментальную картину. С одной стороны, компания имеет хорошие показатели ликвидности, включая высокий текущий коэффициент и отношение долга к капиталу, что указывает на устойчивую финансовую позицию. Тем не менее, низкие значения коэффициентов рентабельности, таких как ROE и ROA, а также отрицательные значения EPS и EBITDA, сигнализируют о том, что компания испытывает трудности с эффективностью. В то время как выручка значительно превышает медиану отрасли, низкие маржи прибыли и рост долговой нагрузки создают риски для будущего роста. Дивидендная доходность находится на приемлемом уровне, но её динамика показывает снижение, что может оттолкнуть инвесторов. Учитывая все эти факторы, необходимо проявить осторожность при оценке компании, так как текущее переоцененное состояние по мультипликаторам может указывать на необходимость коррекции прогноза.

Albemarle Corporation

Rockwell Automation Inc. ROK is scheduled to report second-quarter fiscal 2026 results on May 5, before the opening bell.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Rockwell Automation’s earnings has moved 0.3% south in the past 60 days to $2.89 per share. The consensus mark implies 17.9% growth from the year-ago actual. The consensus estimate for sales is pegged at $2.16 billion, indicating a 7.9% year-over-year rise.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ROK’s Earnings Surprise History
Rockwell Automation’s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being around 11%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
What the Zacks Model Indicates for Rockwell Automation
Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for ROK this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the chances of an earnings beat. But that is not the case here.
Earnings ESP: Rockwell Automation has an Earnings ESP of -0.05%. You can uncover the best stocks before they are reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: The company currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Factors Likely to Have Shaped ROK’s Q2 Performance
Rockwell Automation is expected to have continued to benefit from price increase actions to mitigate the impacts of inflationary pressures, which are likely to have improved margins. ROK has been planning to mitigate tariff costs through pricing actions and supply-chain optimization. These tailwinds are likely to have aided growth in the to-be-reported quarter.
Our model, thus, predicts an organic sales improvement of 5.3% for the quarter.
The broader manufacturing environment remained supportive during the quarter, as reflected in the Institute for Supply Management reporting readings above 50 (denoting expansion). The index was 52.6% in January, 52.4% in February and 52.7% in March. The New Orders Index also remained above 50 throughout this period. This is likely to have reflected in Rockwell Automation’s order.
However, ROK has faced margin headwinds in recent quarters, including higher logistics prices due to increased energy prices and constrained air freight lanes. Moreover, increased spending on talent and growth, an unfavorable mix and currency are expected to have impacted its margins.
Q2 Expectations for Rockwell Automation’s Segments
We expect the Intelligent Devices segment’s fiscal second-quarter sales to improve 9.7% year over year to $983 million. Our prediction for the segment’s operating profit is $180 million, indicating a year-over-year rise of 13.5%.
Our model predicts sales of $581 million for the Software & Control segment, indicating 2.3% growth from the prior year’s actual. The segment’s operating profit is pinned at $196.3 million, which implies 14.8% growth from the year-ago quarter’s reported figure.
We expect the Lifecycle Services segment’s sales to be $557 million, indicating a 3.8% increase from the prior-year period’s actual. The estimate for the segment’s operating profit is pegged at $79 million, suggesting a 1.4% increase from the year-ago quarter’s reported figure.
ROK Stock’s Price Performance
In the past year, Rockwell Automation’s shares have surged 64.5% compared with the industry’s 84.8% rally.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are some companies with the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat in their upcoming releases.
Hubbell Incorporated HUBB, slated to release first-quarter 2026 results on April 30, has an Earnings ESP of +1.27% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Hubbell’s first-quarter 2026 earnings is pegged at $3.87 per share, suggesting a year-over-year rise of 10.6%. HUBB has a trailing four-quarter average surprise of 2.8%.
Albemarle Corporation ALB, scheduled to release first-quarter 2026 earnings on May 6, has an Earnings ESP of +20.12%. It carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Albemarle’s earnings for the first quarter is pegged at $1.24, indicating a turnaround performance from the loss of 18 cents in the year-ago quarter. Albemarle has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 57.8%.
Illinois Tool Works Inc. ITW, slated to release first-quarter 2026 results on April 30, has an Earnings ESP of +0.30% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Illinois Tool Works’ first-quarter 2026 earnings is pegged at $2.55 per share, suggesting a year-over-year rise of 7.1%. ITW has a trailing four-quarter average surprise of 2.1%.
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Rockwell Automation Stock to Report Q2 Earnings: What's in Store?

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 9,506 contracts has been traded thus far today, a contract volume which is representative of approximately 950,600 underlying shares (given that every 1 contract represents 100 underlying shares). That number works out to 46% of ALB's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 2.1 million shares. Especially high volume was seen for the $155 strike put option expiring January 15, 2027, with 2,642 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 264,200 underlying shares of ALB. Below is a chart showing ALB's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $155 strike highlighted in orange:
CVS Health Corporation (Symbol: CVS) options are showing a volume of 34,054 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 3.4 million underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 45.6% of CVS's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 7.5 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $84 strike call option expiring May 01, 2026, with 15,380 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 1.5 million underlying shares of CVS. Below is a chart showing CVS's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $84 strike highlighted in orange:
And Seagate Technology Holdings PLC (Symbol: STX) options are showing a volume of 15,606 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 1.6 million underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 44.4% of STX's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 3.5 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $290 strike put option expiring June 18, 2026, with 1,564 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 156,400 underlying shares of STX. Below is a chart showing STX's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $290 strike highlighted in orange:
For the various different available expirations for ALB options, CVS options, or STX options, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
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Top Ten Hedge Funds Holding LFS
Highest Yielding Preferred Stocks
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Notable Tuesday Option Activity: ALB, CVS, STX

International Paper Company IP is scheduled to report first-quarter 2026 results on April 30, 2026, before the opening bell.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for IP’s first-quarter revenues is pegged at $6.05 billion, indicating 2.5% growth from the year-ago reported figure.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for International Paper’s earnings has moved down 41.9% in the past 60 days to 18 cents per share. The estimate indicates a decrease from the 23 cents reported in the year-ago quarter.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
IP’s Earnings Surprise History
International Paper’s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in one of the trailing four quarters and missed on three occasions, the average surprise being negative 97.8%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
What the Zacks Model Unveils for International Paper
Our model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for IP this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the chances of an earnings beat. However, that is not the case here, as you can see below.
IP’s Earnings ESP: International Paper has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. You can uncover the best stocks before they are reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank of International Paper: The company currently has a Zacks Rank of 5 (Strong Sell).
Factors Likely to Have Shaped IP’s Q1 Performance
On Jan. 31, 2025, International Paper completed the previously announced acquisition of DS Smith, forming a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions focused on the North America and EMEA markets. Post the completion of the sale of its Global Cellulose Fibers business in January 2026, IP currently has two reporting segments: Packaging Solutions North America and Packaging Solutions EMEA.
Reflecting the impacts of the DS Smith acquisition, we expect the Packaging Solutions EMEA segment’s net sales to be $2.39 billion in the first quarter, indicating a significant increase from the $1.55 billion posted in the year-ago quarter. The segment’s operating loss is pegged at $46 million, per our model. The Packaging Solutions EMEA segment posted an operating profit of $46 million in the first quarter of 2025. Weaker-than-expected volumes due to lower industrial production are expected to get reflected in the upcoming results.
We expect Packaging Solutions North America’s net sales to decrease 2.6% year over year to $3.61 billion. The operating profit is anticipated to increase 114% year over year to $304 million in the quarter.
International Paper has been witnessing weak packaging demand as inflationary pressures have impacted consumers, and their priorities have shifted toward non-discretionary goods and services. The company’s customers and the broader retail channel have been trying to lower their elevated inventories, impacting the packaging demand. However, these headwinds are likely to have been offset by stable demand in the e-commerce channel and IP’s growth initiatives.
IP Recent Developments
On April 16, 2026, the company inked a deal to acquire North Pacific Paper Company (“NORPAC”) for $360 million. The deal is in sync with International Paper's strategic transformation to maximize value creation for customers, shareholders and employees.
NORPAC's facility complements IP's existing mill system, helping the company increase system flexibility, reduce costs and expand capabilities. IP will gain from NORPAC's attractive customer base, location and operational capabilities.
International Paper Stock's Price Performance
International Paper's shares have lost 28.3% in the past year compared with the industry's 10.9% decline. During this time, the Basic Materials sector has jumped 49.8%, whereas the S&P 500 has grown 35.3%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks Poised to Beat Estimates
Here are some Basic Materials stocks, which, according to our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat in their upcoming releases.
CF Industries Holdings, Inc. CF, scheduled to release first-quarter 2026 earnings on May 6, has an Earnings ESP of +1.07% and currently flaunts a Zacks Rank of 1. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
CF Industries’ earnings estimates for the first quarter have moved up 11.4% over the past 60 days. The estimate is pegged at $2.35 cents per share, indicating an increase of 27% from the year-ago quarter’s actual. CF Industries has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 13.1%.
Albemarle Corporation ALB, scheduled to release first-quarter 2026 earnings on May 6, has an Earnings ESP of +20.12% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Albemarle’s earnings for the first quarter is pegged at $1.24, indicating a turnaround from the loss of 18 cents incurred in the year-ago quarter. Albemarle has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 57.8%.
Kinross Gold Corporation KGC, slated to release first-quarter 2026 earnings on April 29, currently has an Earnings ESP of +7.07% and a Zacks Rank #3.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Kinross Gold’s earnings for the first quarter is pegged at 68 cents, indicating a year-over-year upsurge of 126%. Kinross Gold has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 26.1%.
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International Paper Stock to Report Q1 Earnings: What's in Store?

Smurfit Westrock PLC SW is scheduled to report first-quarter 2026 results on April 30, before market open.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pegged at $7.76 billion, indicating 1.4% growth from the year-ago quarter's reported figure.
The consensus mark for earnings per share (EPS) is pegged at 50 cents, indicating a year-over-year dip from 73 cents. The bottom-line estimate has moved 26.4% south in the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Smurfit Westrock’s Earnings Surprise History
The company’s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in one of the trailing four quarters and missed in the other three, delivering an average negative surprise of 12.4%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Factors Likely to Shape SW’s Q1 Results
Demand for corrugated packaging and containerboard used to package essential items, such as food, beverages and medicines, has been stable. Strong growth in e-commerce and rising demand for paper as a sustainable packaging solution have favored the industry. These trends are expected to get reflected in Smurfit Westrock’s first-quarter 2026 results.
However, some of these gains are likely to have been offset by weak volumes in Europe and lower box demand. This is expected to hurt Smurfit Westrock’s quarterly results.
The merger-related costs are expected to have affected SW’s quarterly performance and free cash flow margin. Pricing actions and cost-saving initiatives are likely to have negated some of these headwinds.
Smurfit Westrock’s Q1 Segmental Projection
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Europe, MEA and APAC’s revenues is pegged at $2.79 billion for the first quarter, indicating an increase from the $2.58 billion reported in the first quarter of 2025. The segment’s adjusted EBITDA is pegged at $424 million. In the prior-year quarter, the segment reported adjusted EBITDA of $389 million.
The estimates for the North America segment’s first-quarter 2026 revenues are pegged at $4.45 billion compared with the $4.58 billion reported in the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the segment’s adjusted EBITDA is pegged at $624 million, suggesting a 20% year-over-year dip.
The LATAM segment’s revenue estimate is pegged at $524 million, suggesting year-over-year growth from $502 million. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the segment’s adjusted EBITDA is pegged at $121 million, indicating a rise from the $115 million reported in the prior-year quarter.
What the Zacks Model Unveils for SW Stock
Our model does not predict an earnings beat for Smurfit Westrock this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat. That is not the case here.
SW’s Earnings ESP: The Earnings ESP for Smurfit Westrock is 0.00%. You can uncover the best stocks before they are reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
SW’s Zacks Rank: SW currently has a Zacks Rank #3.
Smurfit Westrock Stock’s Price Performance
Shares of the company have lost 2% in the past year compared with the industry’s 10.9% decline. During this time, the Basic Materials sector has jumped 49.8%, whereas the S&P 500 has grown 35.3%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks Poised to Beat Estimates
Here are some Basic Materials stocks, which, according to our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat in their upcoming releases.
CF Industries Holdings, Inc. CF, scheduled to release first-quarter earnings on May 6, has an Earnings ESP of +1.07% and flaunts a Zacks Rank of 1 at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
CF Industries’ earnings estimates for the first quarter have moved up 11.4% over the past 60 days. The estimate is pegged at $2.35 cents per share, indicating an increase of 27% from the year-ago quarter’s actual. CF Industries has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 13.1%.
Albemarle Corporation ALB, scheduled to release first-quarter earnings on May 6, has an Earnings ESP of +20.12%. It carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Albemarle’s earnings for the first quarter is pegged at $1.24, indicating a turnaround from the loss of 18 cents incurred in the year-ago quarter. Albemarle has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 57.8%.
Kinross Gold Corporation KGC, slated to release first-quarter 2026 earnings on April 29, has an Earnings ESP of +7.07% and a Zacks Rank #3.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Kinross Gold’s earnings for the first quarter is pegged at 68 cents, indicating a year-over-year upsurge of 126%. Kinross Gold has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 26.1%.
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Smurfit Westrock Set to Report Q1 Earnings: What's in Store?

Albemarle (ALB) has been one of the most searched-for stocks on Zacks.com lately. So, you might want to look at some of the facts that could shape the stock's performance in the near term.
Shares of this specialty chemicals company have returned +10.9% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +3.3% change. The Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry, to which Albemarle belongs, has lost 4.4% over this period. Now the key question is: Where could the stock be headed in the near term?
While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.
Earnings Estimate Revisions
Rather than focusing on anything else, we at Zacks prioritize evaluating the change in a company's earnings projection. This is because we believe the fair value for its stock is determined by the present value of its future stream of earnings.
Our analysis is essentially based on how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to take the latest business trends into account. When earnings estimates for a company go up, the fair value for its stock goes up as well. And when a stock's fair value is higher than its current market price, investors tend to buy the stock, resulting in its price moving upward. Because of this, empirical studies indicate a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and short-term stock price movements.
For the current quarter, Albemarle is expected to post a loss of $0.33 per share, indicating a change of -117.8% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -4562.1% over the last 30 days.
The consensus earnings estimate of -$0.45 for the current fiscal year indicates a year-over-year change of -102%. This estimate has changed -226.3% over the last 30 days.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $2.09 indicates a change of +564.4% from what Albemarle is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed -19%.
Having a strong externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, offers a more conclusive picture of a stock's price direction in the near term, since it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. Due to the size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, Albemarle is rated Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell).
The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:
12 Month EPS
Projected Revenue Growth
Even though a company's earnings growth is arguably the best indicator of its financial health, nothing much happens if it cannot raise its revenues. It's almost impossible for a company to grow its earnings without growing its revenue for long periods. Therefore, knowing a company's potential revenue growth is crucial.
In the case of Albemarle, the consensus sales estimate of $1.49 billion for the current quarter points to a year-over-year change of -36.6%. The $5.5 billion and $5.82 billion estimates for the current and next fiscal years indicate changes of -42.8% and +5.9%, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise History
Albemarle reported revenues of $1.35 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -41.4%. EPS of -$1.55 for the same period compares with $2.74 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.39 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of -2.24%. The EPS surprise was -400%.
Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed EPS estimates just once. The company topped consensus revenue estimates three times over this period.
Valuation
No investment decision can be efficient without considering a stock's valuation. Whether a stock's current price rightly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects is an essential determinant of its future price performance.
While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S) and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.
The Zacks Value Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which pays close attention to both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics to grade stocks from A to F (an An is better than a B; a B is better than a C; and so on), is pretty helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.
Albemarle is graded F on this front, indicating that it is trading at a premium to its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.
Bottom Line
The facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about Albemarle. However, its Zacks Rank #5 does suggest that it may underperform the broader market in the near term.
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Albemarle Corporation (ALB) is Attracting Investor Attention: Here is What You Should Know

Buenaventura Mining BVN is scheduled to report first-quarter 2026 results on April 29, after market close.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Buenaventura Mining’s first-quarter total sales is pegged at $600 million, indicating a 95% jump from the year-ago quarter’s actual.
The consensus mark for earnings has moved north in the past 60 days to $1.09 per share. It indicates a 98.2% surge from the prior-year quarter’s reported number.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Buenaventura Mining’s Earnings Surprise History
BVN’s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimates in the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 80.4%. The trend is shown in the chart below.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
What the Zacks Model Unveils for Buenaventura Mining Stock
Our proven model does not predict an earnings beat for Buenaventura Mining this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the chances of an earnings beat. That is not the case here, as you can see below.
You can uncover the best stocks before they are reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Earnings ESP: Buenaventura Mining has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%.
Zacks Rank: BVN currently carries a Zacks Rank of 3.
Factors Likely to Have Shaped BVN’s Q1 Performance
The company recently released its first-quarter 2025 production and sales figures, as well as the average realized metal prices, which provide insight into how it likely fared in the quarter.
Gold production from direct operations was 30,035 ounces in the first quarter, up 7.6% from the year-ago quarter. Including Coimolache, the total gold produced was 37,815 ounces, up 20.1%. BVN sold 32,731 ounces of gold in the first quarter of 2026, which marked 9% year-over-year growth.
Buenaventura Mining produced 3.9 million ounces of silver from total direct operations, reflecting a 5.9% year-over-year rise. Including Coimolache, silver production was 3.7 million ounces. Buenaventura Mining also produced 4,495 MT of lead, 7,379 MT of zinc and 10,898MT of copper in the quarter.
Silver sales volumes were up 1.2% at 3.6 million ounces, lead sales were up 20.7% to 4,187 MT, while zinc sales volumes were up 15.6%. Copper sales were at 12,269 MT, 7.6% higher than the prior year.
The quarter benefited from a favorable pricing environment. The company stated that average realized gold prices surged 65.6% year over year to $4,875 per ounce. Silver prices averaged $99.29 per ounce in the quarter, skyrocketing 208.2% year over year. Copper prices were up 47.4% year over year, and zinc prices increased 17.9%. However, lead prices dipped 5% in the quarter.
Overall, higher sales volume and prices are expected to get reflected in Buenaventura Mining’s results in the quarter.
BVN Stock’s Price Performance
Shares of Buenaventura Mining have skyrocketed 136% in a year compared with the industry’s 164.4% upsurge. During this time, the Basic Materials sector has jumped 49.9%, whereas the S&P 500 has grown 35.4%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks Poised to Beat Estimates
Here are some Basic Materials stocks, which, according to our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat in their upcoming releases.
CF Industries Holdings, Inc. CF, scheduled to release first-quarter earnings on May 6, currently has an Earnings ESP of +1.07% and sports a Zacks Rank of 1. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
CF Industries’ earnings estimates for the fourth quarter have moved up 11.4% over the past 60 days. The estimate is pegged at $2.35 cents per share, indicating an increase of 27% from the year-ago quarter. CF Industries has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 13.1%.
Albemarle Corporation ALB, scheduled to release first-quarter earnings on May 6, has an Earnings ESP of +20.12%. It carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Albemarle’s earnings for the first quarter is pegged at $1.24, indicating a turnaround from the loss of 18 cents incurred in the year-ago quarter. Albemarle has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 57.8%.
Kinross Gold Corporation KGC, slated to release first-quarter 2026 earnings on April 29, currently has an Earnings ESP of +7.07% and a Zacks Rank #3.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Kinross Gold’s earnings for the first quarter is pegged at 68 cents, indicating a year-over-year surge of 126%. Kinross Gold has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 26.1%.
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Buenaventura Gears Up to Report Q1 Earnings: What's in the Offing?

Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. APD has announced plans to build, own and operate a new air separation unit (“ASU”) in Cocoa, FL, to expand its industrial gas production capacity and strengthen support for the growing space launch providers in the state.
The new facility is targeted to begin operations in the second half of 2028. The ASU will produce liquid oxygen, nitrogen and argon. These critical gases will also be available to the regional merchant market, including metals processing and fabrication, medical and chemical industries.
As the leading industrial supplier, Air Products also develops, engineers, builds, owns and operates some of the world's largest clean hydrogen projects. It has also had a history of operating an ASU in Florida for over three decades in Orlando, supporting the local economy with medical and industrial gases. The new project in Cocoa is expected to further improve regional coverage, while adding to its 70 ASUs, which are currently operating, across the United States.
APD stock has gained 12% over the past year compared with the industry’s 16.8% growth.
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APD’s Zacks Rank & Other Key Picks
APD currently holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
Other top-ranked stocks in the Basic Materials space are CF Industries Holdings, Inc. CF, Albemarle Corporation ALB and Balchem Corporation BCPC.
While CF sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present, ALB and BCPC carry a Zacks Rank #2 each. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CF’s 2026 earnings is pegged at $11.35 per share, indicating a rise of 21.13% year over year. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, with an average surprise of 13.15%. CF’s shares have soared 51.8% over the past year.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALB’s 2026 earnings is pinned at $8.72 per share, indicating a 1,203.8% year-over-year increase. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in three of the trailing four quarters, while missing it in one, with an average surprise of 57.77%. ALB’s shares have jumped 221.7% over the past year.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for BCPC’s 2026 earnings is pinned at $5.47 per share, indicating a 6.21% year-over-year increase. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in two of the four trailing quarters, while missing it in the remaining two.
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Quantum Computing is the next technological revolution, and it could be even more advanced than AI.
While some believed the technology was years away, it is already present and moving fast. Large hyperscalers, such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Oracle, and even Meta and Tesla, are scrambling to integrate quantum computing into their infrastructure.
Senior Stock Strategist Kevin Cook reveals 7 carefully selected stocks poised to dominate the quantum computing landscape in his report, Beyond AI: The Quantum Leap in Computing Power.
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See Top Quantum Stocks Now >>
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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.

APD to Build New ASU in Florida to Support Space Launch Industry

Albemarle (ALB) ended the recent trading session at $188.33, demonstrating a -2.49% change from the preceding day's closing price. This change lagged the S&P 500's 0.8% gain on the day. On the other hand, the Dow registered a loss of 0.16%, and the technology-centric Nasdaq increased by 1.63%.
Shares of the specialty chemicals company have appreciated by 10.68% over the course of the past month, outperforming the Basic Materials sector's gain of 9.96%, and the S&P 500's gain of 8.11%.
Analysts and investors alike will be keeping a close eye on the performance of Albemarle in its upcoming earnings disclosure. The company's earnings report is set to go public on May 6, 2026. The company is forecasted to report an EPS of $1.07, showcasing a 694.44% upward movement from the corresponding quarter of the prior year. Meanwhile, our latest consensus estimate is calling for revenue of $1.33 billion, up 23.05% from the prior-year quarter.
In terms of the entire fiscal year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates predict earnings of $8.28 per share and a revenue of $5.8 billion, indicating changes of +1148.1% and +12.87%, respectively, from the former year.
It's also important for investors to be aware of any recent modifications to analyst estimates for Albemarle. Recent revisions tend to reflect the latest near-term business trends. With this in mind, we can consider positive estimate revisions a sign of optimism about the business outlook.
Research indicates that these estimate revisions are directly correlated with near-term share price momentum. We developed the Zacks Rank to capitalize on this phenomenon. Our system takes these estimate changes into account and delivers a clear, actionable rating model.
The Zacks Rank system ranges from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell). It has a remarkable, outside-audited track record of success, with #1 stocks delivering an average annual return of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, there's been a 1.61% rise in the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. Right now, Albemarle possesses a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).
Looking at valuation, Albemarle is presently trading at a Forward P/E ratio of 23.32. This represents a premium compared to its industry average Forward P/E of 19.43.
One should further note that ALB currently holds a PEG ratio of 1.46. This popular metric is similar to the widely-known P/E ratio, with the difference being that the PEG ratio also takes into account the company's expected earnings growth rate. The Chemical - Diversified was holding an average PEG ratio of 1.71 at yesterday's closing price.
The Chemical - Diversified industry is part of the Basic Materials sector. Currently, this industry holds a Zacks Industry Rank of 210, positioning it in the bottom 14% of all 250+ industries.
The Zacks Industry Rank evaluates the power of our distinct industry groups by determining the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks forming the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Be sure to use Zacks.com to monitor all these stock-influencing metrics, and more, throughout the forthcoming trading sessions.
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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) Stock Sinks As Market Gains: What You Should Know

Reliance, Inc. RS posted profits of $264.9 million or $5.10 per share for the first quarter of 2026, up from $199.7 million or $3.74 per share in the year-ago quarter.
Barring one-time items, the company recorded earnings of $5.16 per share. It outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.63.
The company reported net sales of $4,026 million, representing a year-over-year increase of approximately 15.5%. The top line also beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3,835.3 million.
Reliance, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Reliance’s Segment Update
Reliance reported a 2.7% year-over-year increase in shipments (thousand tons sold) to 1,672.7. The figure surpassed our estimate of 1,633.8. The average selling price per ton rose 12.6% year over year to $2,414. It was above our estimate of $2,362.2.
Demand for non-residential construction, including infrastructure, Reliance’s largest end market by volume, strengthened compared with the first quarter of 2025. The company expects demand in this sector to remain healthy through the second quarter of 2026, supported by strong activity across data centers, energy infrastructure and public infrastructure.
Demand within the broader manufacturing market improved year over year, driven by growth across the military, industrial machinery, consumer products, construction machinery sectors and shipbuilding. Reliance expects the demand to remain healthy in the second quarter.
Aerospace demand was higher compared with the prior-year quarter. Reliance expects commercial aerospace demand to remain consistent in the second quarter due to build-rate increases, while defense and space-related activity is expected to remain strong.
Demand for automotive toll processing services remained flat year over year. Reliance expects steady performance through the second quarter. The company’s toll processing operations remain agile and responsive to the automotive market’s demand fluctuations.
In the semiconductor market, demand improved relative to the first quarter of 2025. Reliance expects stable to improving demand conditions in the second quarter.
RS’ Financial Position
As of March 31, 2026, Reliance held $249.7 million in cash and cash equivalents, with total outstanding debt amounting to $1.7 billion. This includes $550 million borrowings under the company’s $1.5 billion revolving credit facility.
In the first quarter, Reliance generated $151.4 million in operating cash flow. It reflects the typical increase in seasonal working capital caused by strong shipment volume and higher metals pricing.
Reliance repurchased its common stock during the first quarter, bringing down the outstanding common shares by 3% year over year, at an average price of $299 per share, for a total of $234 million.
Reliance’s Outlook
Reliance expects demand in the first quarter to remain healthy across its diverse end markets, though ongoing domestic and international trade policy uncertainty and Middle East conflict could pose supply availability and macroeconomic risks, influencing performance. The company projects tons sold to increase 1% to 3% from the prior quarter and 4.5% to 6.5% from the year-ago quarter.
The average selling price per ton is anticipated to be up 1.5-3.5% sequentially. Based on these assumptions, the company forecasts adjusted earnings per share in the range of $5.15 to $5.35 for the second quarter, which includes an estimated LIFO expense of $37.5 million, or 54 cents per share.
RS’ Price Performance
Reliance’s shares have gained 21.3% in the past year compared with the 57% growth of the industry.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
RS’ Zacks Rank & Key Picks
RS currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Some better-ranked stocks in the basic materials space are Aura Minerals Inc. AUGO, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. APDand Albemarle Corporation ALB.
Aura Minerals is slated to report first-quarter 2026 results on May 6. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.84 per share, indicating 397.3% year-over-year growth. AUGO sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Air Products is scheduled to report second-quarter fiscal 2026 results on April 30. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for APD’s second-quarter earnings per share is pegged at $3.05, indicating 13.38% year-over-year growth. APD carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present.
Albemarle is slated to report first-quarter 2026 results on May 6. The consensus estimate for ALB’s earnings per share is pegged at $1.07. ALB presently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
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RS' Q1 Earnings and Sales Surpass Estimates on Higher Prices

Newmont Corporation NEM reported first-quarter 2026 earnings (as reported) of $3 per share compared with $1.68 in the year-ago quarter.
Barring one-time items, adjusted earnings were $2.90 per share, up from $1.25 reported in the prior-year quarter. It topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.07.
NEM’s revenues for the first quarter were $7,307 million, up roughly 45.9% from $5,010 million reported in the prior-year quarter. The figure topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $6,360.7 million. The increase in the top line was primarily due to higher year-over-year realized gold prices.
Newmont Corporation Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Newmont’s Operational Highlights
Newmont's attributable gold production in the first quarter of 1.3 million ounces was 10.3% lower than the prior quarter’s figure and down 15.6% year over year. The figure beat our estimate of 1.23 million ounces.
Average realized prices of gold rose around 66.4% year over year to $4,900 per ounce. The figure was below our estimate of $4,934 per ounce.
The company’s costs applicable to sales (CAS) for gold (co-product) were $1,307 per ounce, up 6.5% year over year. The figure was above our estimate of $1,233.5 per ounce.
All-in-sustaining costs (AISC) for gold (co-product) were up around 3.5% year over year to $1,709 per ounce. The figure was higher than our estimate of $1,684 per ounce.
NEM’s Financials
The company ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $8,775 million, up 87% year over year. At the end of the quarter, the company had a long-term debt of $5,079 million, down 32.3% year over year.
Net cash from continuing operations amounted to $3.8 billion in the reported quarter, up from $2 billion in the year-ago quarter.
Newmont’s 2026 Outlook
Newmont anticipates gold production for 2026 at about 5.26 million ounces. The company also projects total CAS (by-product) for gold at $1,055 per ounce and an AISC (by-product) of $1,680 per ounce.
General and Administrative expenses for 2026 are expected to be around $375 million, aided by cost savings. Reclamation and Remediation Accretion is projected to be about $385 million, while exploration and advanced projects expenses are predicted to be around $525 million.
NEM’s Price Performance
Newmont’s shares have gained 105.9% in the past year compared with the 80% rise of the industry.
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NEM’s Zacks Rank & Key Picks
NEM currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Some better-ranked stocks in the basic materials space are Aura Minerals Inc. AUGO, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. APD and Albemarle Corporation ALB.
Aura Minerals is slated to report first-quarter 2026 results on May 6. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.84 per share, indicating 397.3% year-over-year growth. AUGO sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Air Products is scheduled to report second-quarter fiscal 2026 results on April 30. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for APD’s second-quarter earnings per share is pegged at $3.05, indicating 13.38% year-over-year growth. APD carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present.
Albemarle is slated to report first-quarter 2026 results on May 6. The consensus estimate for ALB’s earnings per share is pegged at $1.07. ALB presently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
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Just released: Experts distill 7 elite stocks from the current list of 220 Zacks Rank #1 Strong Buys. They deem these tickers "Most Likely for Early Price Pops."
Since 1988, the full list has beaten the market more than 2X over with an average gain of +23.9% per year. So be sure to give these hand picked 7 your immediate attention.
See them now >>
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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 Corporation

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