Brinker International, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the ownership, development, operation, and franchising of casual dining restaurants in the United States and internationally. It operates and franchises Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy restaurant brands. The company also operates virtual brands, It's Just Wings. Brinker International, Inc. was founded in 1975 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

Brinker International looks stronger in terms of earnings quality than in terms of its balance sheet and valuation. The company demonstrates high ROE, ROA, and ROI, as well as stable operating and net margins, with these metrics generally improving over the years. Revenue, operating profit, EBITDA, and net income are growing, which confirms solid operating momentum and the ability to maintain profitability in a highly competitive restaurant sector. At the same time, the P/E ratio is below the industry median, supporting the case for a reasonable earnings-based valuation, but P/S, P/B, and P/FCF are noticeably above industry levels, which limits the potential for further re-rating. The very high P/B is especially concerning given the relatively modest book value of equity, making the stock sensitive to any slowdown in growth. Liquidity remains a weak point: the quick ratio and current ratio are significantly below industry benchmarks, so working capital cushion is limited. Debt load is also above the median, although debt has not been growing aggressively over the years and in recent periods has been more stable or declining. Gross margin is below the industry median, indicating pressure on cost of goods sold and limiting the quality of revenue growth. Dividend yield is present, but it is low and is not the main driver of the investment case. Overall, the fundamentals support a premium to the current price, but not strongly enough to justify overly aggressive upside without caveats. Therefore, a moderate conservative downward adjustment to the forecast is appropriate, reflecting expensive multiples and weak liquidity despite strong operating earnings quality.

WHEAT-10.26

Brinker International, Inc.

Сильный индекс, значительно вырос. Быки крепко уверены в своих позициях.

Strong index, significantly up. The bulls are very confident in their positions.

Средний индекс, значительно упал. Рынок не поддерживает быков.

Medium index, significantly down. The market does not support the bulls.

Сильный индекс, значительно упал. Отток средств из лонгов на высоком уровне.

Strong index, significantly down. Outflow of funds from longs at a high level.

Strong profitability and revenue growth support the valuation, but expensive multiples, weak liquidity, and elevated debt limit the upside.

For Immediate Release
Chicago, IL – September 28, 2026 – Stocks in this week’s article are Brinker International, Inc. EAT, Synopsys, Inc. SNPS and FirstEnergy Corp. FE.
Buy These 3 Sales Growth Stocks Amid Rising Rate Hike Bets
U.S. equities have posted solid gains so far in 2026 despite elevated Treasury yields, oil price volatility, sticky inflation, tariff uncertainty and stretched tech valuations. The Federal Reserve’s latest rate hike, along with prospects of further tightening, has added to concerns over restrictive financial conditions. Still, resilient corporate earnings and robust AI-related spending have supported investor sentiment, keeping the major indexes firmly in positive territory despite persistent macroeconomic and policy headwinds.
Against this backdrop, the traditional approach to stock selection remains a good idea. Sales growth offers a more reliable basis for evaluating stocks than earnings-focused metrics. In this regard, stocks like Brinker International, Inc., Synopsys, Inc. and FirstEnergy Corp. are worth adding to your portfolio.
Sales growth is an important gauge of a company’s business momentum, highlighting customer demand and its effectiveness in selling products or services. Sustained revenue expansion may indicate favorable industry dynamics, market share gains, pricing strength, successful product introductions, or entry into new markets and customer segments. Rising sales can also enhance operating leverage by allocating fixed costs across a broader revenue base, supporting margin improvement and profitability.
However, sales growth should be evaluated alongside industry conditions, competitive performance, pricing trends, customer mix and the broader economy. The quality of growth also matters: recurring revenues, repeat purchases, volume-led gains and resilient demand are typically more sustainable than temporary increases. Companies that consistently deliver high-quality sales growth are often better positioned to generate stable cash flows, finance expansion, reinforce competitive advantages and create sustainable shareholder returns. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
3 Stocks with Robust Sales Growth to Bet On
Based in Dallas, TX, Brinker International owns, operates, develops and franchises restaurants under the Chili’s Grill & Bar (Chili’s) and Maggiano’s Little Italy (Maggiano’s) brands. As of June 24, 2026, EAT owned, operated or franchised 1,635 restaurants.
Its expected sales growth rate for fiscal 2027 is 8.1%. Brinker International carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
Based in Sunnyvale, CA, Synopsys is a vendor of electronic design automation software and related solutions for the semiconductor and electronics industries. SNPS offers products used across the chip design flow, from design capture and implementation to verification, sign-off and manufacturing.
Its expected sales growth rate for fiscal 2026 is 37.8%. Synopsys currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
Headquartered in Akron, OH, FirstEnergy is a diversified energy company that engages in the transmission, distribution and generation of electricity. FE’s reportable segments are Distribution, Integrated and Stand-Alone Transmission.
Its sales are expected to rise 6.9% in 2026. FE carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
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Zacks.com featured highlights include Brinker International, Synopsys and FirstEnergy

U.S. equities have posted solid gains so far in 2026 despite elevated Treasury yields, oil price volatility, sticky inflation, tariff uncertainty and stretched tech valuations. The Federal Reserve’s latest rate hike, along with prospects of further tightening, has added to concerns over restrictive financial conditions. Still, resilient corporate earnings and robust AI-related spending have supported investor sentiment, keeping the major indexes firmly in positive territory despite persistent macroeconomic and policy headwinds.
Against this backdrop, the traditional approach to stock selection remains a good idea. Sales growth offers a more reliable basis for evaluating stocks than earnings-focused metrics. In this regard, stocks like Brinker International, Inc. EAT, Synopsys, Inc. SNPS and FirstEnergy Corp. FE are worth adding to your portfolio.
Sales growth is an important gauge of a company’s business momentum, highlighting customer demand and its effectiveness in selling products or services. Sustained revenue expansion may indicate favorable industry dynamics, market share gains, pricing strength, successful product introductions, or entry into new markets and customer segments. Rising sales can also enhance operating leverage by allocating fixed costs across a broader revenue base, supporting margin improvement and profitability.
However, sales growth should be evaluated alongside industry conditions, competitive performance, pricing trends, customer mix and the broader economy. The quality of growth also matters: recurring revenues, repeat purchases, volume-led gains and resilient demand are typically more sustainable than temporary increases. Companies that consistently deliver high-quality sales growth are often better positioned to generate stable cash flows, finance expansion, reinforce competitive advantages and create sustainable shareholder returns.
Selecting the Potential Winning Stocks
To shortlist stocks with impressive sales growth and a high cash balance, we have selected 5-Year Historical Sales Growth (%) greater than X-Industry and Cash Flow of more than $500 million as our main screening parameters.
But sales growth and cash strength are not the absolute criteria for selecting stocks. Hence, we have added other factors to arrive at a winning strategy.
P/S Ratio less than X-Industry: This metric determines the value placed on each dollar of a company’s revenues. The lower the ratio, the better it is for picking a stock since the investor is paying less for each unit of sales.
% Change F1 Sales Estimate Revisions (four weeks) greater than X-Industry: Estimate revisions, better than the industry, are often seen to trigger an increase in stock price.
Operating Margin (average last five years) greater than 5%: The operating margin measures how much every dollar of a company's sales translates into profits. A high ratio indicates that the company has good cost control and sales are increasing faster than costs — an optimal situation.
Return on Equity (ROE) greater than 5%: This metric will ensure that sales growth is translated into profits and the company is not hoarding cash. A high ROE means that the company is spending wisely and is, in all likelihood, profitable.
Zacks Rank less than or equal to 2: Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) stocks are known to outperform, irrespective of the market environment. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
3 Stocks With Robust Sales Growth to Bet on
Based in Dallas, TX, Brinker International owns, operates, develops and franchises restaurants under the Chili’s Grill & Bar (Chili’s) and Maggiano’s Little Italy (Maggiano’s) brands. As of June 24, 2026, EAT owned, operated or franchised 1,635 restaurants.
Its expected sales growth rate for fiscal 2027 is 8.1%. Brinker International carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
Based in Sunnyvale, CA, Synopsys is a vendor of electronic design automation software and related solutions for the semiconductor and electronics industries. SNPS offers products used across the chip design flow, from design capture and implementation to verification, sign-off and manufacturing.
Its expected sales growth rate for fiscal 2026 is 37.8%. Synopsys currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
Headquartered in Akron, OH, FirstEnergy is a diversified energy company that engages in the transmission, distribution and generation of electricity. FE’s reportable segments are Distribution, Integrated and Stand-Alone Transmission.
Its sales are expected to rise 6.9% in 2026. FE carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
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Buy These 3 Sales Growth Stocks Amid Rising Rate Hike Bets

Key Points
Northcoast raised its rating on Brinker from neutral to buy with a price target of $275.
Chili's has been executing effectively and has a solid plan for steady growth over the next few years.
Shares of Brinker International (NYSE: EAT), the parent of Chili's, were moving higher today after the casual dining chain got an upgrade from a Wall Street analyst.
As of 11:29 a.m. ET, the stock was up 4% after gaining as much as 6.5% earlier in the session.
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Brinker continues to impress
Northcoast upgraded the restaurant stock from neutral to buy, citing strong growth at Chili's. Analyst Jim Sanderson gave the stock a price target of $275, implying upside of 37% over the next year.
He also said Chili's is well-positioned for long-term growth under new management, and that menu improvements and better marketing put the company in a position to exceed in-store margins of 20%.
Chili's has been one of the top-performing restaurant stocks, both on the market and in its results, as it's taken market share thanks to savvy ad campaigns touting better value than fast-food options like McDonald's, and a refreshed menu.
Same-store sales growth has cooled off from earlier in its surge when it was up above 20%, but it finished fiscal 2026, which ended in July, with 8.1% comparable sales growth across the company and 9.2% at Chili's. Brinker also owns Maggiano's, which has struggled lately with negative comparable sales.
What's next for Brinker
Brinker's days of hypergrowth may be coming to an end, but Sanderson makes a good point about the company's ability to sustain superior margins. Through fiscal 2029, the company is targeting 4%-6% annual revenue growth, including 2%-3% unit growth with 30 new restaurants annually. It also called for double-digit annual adjusted EPS growth, boosted by repurchasing 3%-5% of its shares annually.
If Brinker can execute on those goals, the stock should continue to move higher.
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Why Brinker International Stock Jumped Today

Fintel reports that on September 22, 2026, Northcoast Research upgraded their outlook for Brinker International (NYSE:EAT) (DB:BKJ) from Neutral to Buy.
Brinker International is a hospitality company owning and operating Chili’s Grill & Bar and Maggiano’s Little Italy. Prior to the rating action, the company's stock closed at $200.30 on September 21, 2026. That close represents a price change of -6.47% over one week (baseline close $214.16 on September 14, 2026) and -18.60% over one month (baseline close $246.06 on August 21, 2026).
As of September 15, 2026, the consensus target mean for Brinker International was $272.51 and the consensus target median was $283.05; the consensus target mean implies a change of +36.05%. In the recommendation period of September 1, 2026, aggregate analyst recommendations totaled 27, comprising 74.1% positive, 25.9% hold and 0.0% negative.
Other recent analyst actions: DA Davidson maintained a Neutral rating on September 21, 2026; on September 18, 2026, Freedom Capital Markets maintained its Buy rating, Stephens & Co. reiterated its Overweight rating, and TD Cowen reiterated its Buy rating; Seaport Global initiated coverage with a Buy rating on September 16, 2026.
Brinker International reported its latest earnings on August 12, 2026. The company reported actual EPS of 3.07, compared to an estimated EPS of 3.1202, representing an EPS surprise of -1.61%. Actual revenue was $1,535,800,000.00, compared to estimated revenue of $1,549,648,050.00. According to the company's EX-99.1 filing dated August 12, 2026, Kevin Hochman, President and CEO of Brinker International, stated that the fourth quarter of fiscal 2026 completed five consecutive years of Chili’s same-store sales growth, delivering a 71% cumulative increase. Additionally, the company's Form 10-K filing dated August 19, 2026, disclosed that on June 1, 2026, Brinker International executed an asset purchase agreement with a franchisee to acquire 12 Chili’s restaurants in Alabama and Mississippi, including the real estate for six locations, with the transaction expected to close on August 27, 2026.
Recent analyst actions
Recent analyst upgrades, downgrades, initiations, and maintained ratings
Date
Analyst
Prior
Latest recommendation
Action
September 22, 2026
Northcoast Research
Neutral
Buy
upgrade
September 21, 2026
DA Davidson
Neutral
Neutral
maintained
September 18, 2026
Freedom Capital Markets
Buy
Buy
maintained
September 18, 2026
Stephens & Co.
Overweight
Overweight
reiterated
September 18, 2026
TD Cowen
Buy
Buy
reiterated
September 16, 2026
Seaport Global
Buy
initiated coverage
September 11, 2026
DA Davidson
Neutral
Neutral
maintained
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This story originally appeared on Fintel.

Northcoast Research Upgrades Brinker International to Buy from Neutral

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated CAKE is taking steps to revive traffic at North Italia, which remains a weaker-performing concept within its restaurant portfolio. In the second quarter of fiscal 2026, North Italia’s comparable sales declined 3%, highlighting continued pressure amid a competitive casual-dining environment. Annualized unit volumes stood at $7.9 million, while restaurant-level profit margin for mature locations fell to 15.6% from 18.2% a year ago.
Management plans to address the weakness through a more value-oriented menu and accessible price points. Lower-priced pasta options and lunch specials are being introduced to improve affordability and strengthen consumers’ perception of value. CAKE also plans to increase targeted marketing, including local digital advertising, restaurant-week promotions and community events. These initiatives are scheduled for testing during the second half of 2026.
CAKE is also leveraging operational and strategic lessons from its broader portfolio to support North Italia. Management noted that service systems, people practices, technology and supply-chain capabilities developed at The Cheesecake Factory are being applied across its other concepts. Improved employee retention at North Italia during the first half of the year could also help create greater consistency in restaurant execution.
However, a recovery may take time. Management expects traffic trends to remain variable over the coming quarters as the new initiatives gain traction. The success of North Italia’s value positioning and marketing efforts will therefore be important in determining whether CAKE can restore sustainable traffic growth.
North Italia Faces Competition: Can CAKE Reignite Traffic Growth?
North Italia operates in a competitive full-service dining market, facing established players such as Brinker International, Inc. EAT and Darden Restaurants, Inc. DRI. Chili’s, owned by EAT, has focused on affordability and menu updates to appeal to value-conscious diners. Meanwhile, DRI’s Olive Garden benefits from strong brand recognition and an established position in the Italian restaurant category.
North Italia’s 3% comparable sales decline in the second quarter of fiscal 2026 highlights the challenges involved in rebuilding customer traffic and strengthening its value proposition. To address these concerns, management intends to test more affordable pasta dishes, lunch promotions and focused marketing campaigns in the second half of 2026.
The performance of EAT and DRI provides a useful industry reference as The Cheesecake Factory works to improve North Italia’s traffic trends and competitive positioning.
CAKE’s Price Performance, Valuation & Estimates
The Cheesecake Factory’s shares have surged 70.8% in the past six months, outperforming the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry, the broader Retail and Wholesale sector and the S&P 500 index.
On a forward 12-month basis, CAKE trades at a P/E of 19.73, slightly below the industry’s 20.51.
CAKE P/E (F12M)
CAKE’s earnings estimates for 2026 and 2027 have moved higher over the past 60 days. The estimates project year-over-year earnings growth of 20.2% in 2026 and 10.9% in 2027, pointing to continued momentum over the next two years.
CAKE currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
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The AI revolution has already minted millionaires. But the stocks everyone knows about aren't likely to keep delivering the biggest profits. AI’s second wave is moving from infrastructure to implementation and these companies are at the forefront of this transition, positioned to become what Amazon and Google were to the internet era.
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CAKE Targets North Italia Recovery: Can Traffic Turn Around?

Brinker International, Inc. EAT is entering its next phase of Chili’s growth from a stronger unit-economics base. Average annual unit volumes (AUVs) climbed from just over $4.5 million at the end of fiscal 2025 to about $5 million in fiscal 2026, supported by a second consecutive year of traffic gains and five straight years of same-store sales growth. Management views this combination of higher volumes and sustained traffic as evidence that its focus on food, service, value and restaurant operations is gaining traction.
Importantly, the $5 million AUV level may not represent the ceiling. Chili’s comparable sales increased 9.2% in fiscal 2026, including a 3.6% traffic contribution. In the fiscal fourth quarter, comps advanced 5.6%, with traffic remaining positive at 1.5% despite comparison with a 16.3% traffic increase in the prior-year period. Chili’s company sales also reached about $1.41 billion in the fiscal fourth quarter, up from roughly $1.33 billion a year earlier.
Brinker is looking to build on these volumes through continued reinvestment rather than relying solely on pricing. Its strategy centers on strengthening Chili’s everyday value proposition, improving food and service, and using menu innovation to generate incremental visits. The Big Smasher, Big QP and Big Crispy Chicken Sandwich have supported this approach, with management noting that sales and traffic accelerated further in July following the Big Crispy rollout.
Higher AUVs also provide more flexibility to reinvest. Brinker plans 60-80 Chili’s reimages in fiscal 2027 and expects to begin reimaging about 10% of the fleet annually in fiscal 2028. With additional traffic capacity, improving throughput and continued restaurant reinvestment, the $5 million AUV level could become an important foundation for Chili’s next stage of growth.
AUV Growth Highlights Competitive Restaurant Productivity
Brinker’s Chili’s concept has pushed average annual unit volumes to about $5 million, up from just over $4.5 million a year earlier, giving the brand a stronger base for traffic growth, margin leverage and future development. Peers Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. CMG and Shake Shack Inc. SHAK are also emphasizing restaurant productivity and unit economics as important growth drivers.
Chipotle continues to focus on increasing restaurant productivity through higher throughput, menu innovation and digital engagement. CMG’s high-efficiency equipment package has been installed in more than 1,000 restaurants, with those locations producing two to three more entrees during peak 15-minute periods and generating hundreds of basis points of comparable-sales improvement. Management also views menu innovation as a multiyear lever for increasing AUVs over time.
Shake Shack is similarly relying on high AUVs and restaurant-level productivity to support expansion. Management said strong cash-on-cash returns are being driven by low build costs, healthy margins and high AUVs, while newer Shacks continue to track toward targeted returns. SHAK generated roughly $78,000 in average weekly sales in the second quarter and remains focused on maintaining strong unit volumes as it expands its footprint.
EAT’s Price Performance, Valuation and Estimates
Brinker’s shares have gained 33.9% over the past six months against the industry’s 13.5% decline.
EAT Stock’s Six-Month Price Performance
In terms of its forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio, EAT is trading at 14.84, down from the industry average of 20.51.
EAT’s P/E Ratio (Forward 12-Month) vs. Industry
Over the past 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for EAT’s fiscal 2026 earnings per share has decreased, as shown in the chart. However, the estimate for EAT’s fiscal 2026 earnings per share implies a year-over-year uptick of 21%.
EAT currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Beyond Nvidia: AI's Second Wave Is Here
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Can Brinker Turn Chili's $5M AUV Into Its Next Growth Engine?

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) closed down by -0.45% on Wednesday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed down by -1.21%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up +0.02%. E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) fell -0.42%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) rose +0.05%.
Stock indexes gave up an early advance and settled mixed on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 falling to a 6-week low, and the Dow Jones Industrials sinking to a 3-month low. The broader market retreated on Wednesday after the FOMC voted unanimously to raise interest rates by +25 bp and signaled one more rate hike later this year to contain inflation.
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Stocks fell to their lows Wednesday afternoon when Fed Chair Warsh said the rate hike was meant to "remove a dose of accommodation." He added that inflation is too high and has been for too long, as too many inflation categories are still rising more than 3%. His comments fueled speculation that the Fed may embark on additional rate hikes.
The FOMC, as expected, voted 12-0 to raise the federal funds target range by +25 bp to 3.75%-4.00% and said the rate hike will support a "timelier" return to 2% inflation. The committee added that, "While uncertainty remains elevated owing, in part, to geopolitical developments, domestic spending has been resilient, productivity growth is strong, and capital investment is robust."
The FOMC's dot plot of rate projections shows the median year-end projection for the federal funds rate at 4.125%, up from 3.750% in June, with 16 of 18 officials expecting to raise interest rates at least one more time by the end of the year.
The FOMC raised its 2026 GDP forecast to +2.3% from +2.2% in June, and raised its 2026 core inflation estimate to +3.4% for the end of 2026, up from June’s forecast of +3.3%.
Stocks initially moved higher on Wednesday as the broader market found support from a plunge in crude oil prices that lowered bond yields and improved market sentiment. Gains in chipmakers also supported modest gains in the Nasdaq 100 on Wednesday after Intel rose more than +3% on a report that said the company was in talks with South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix to produce memory chips in the US for the first time.
Wednesday’s US economic news was mixed for stocks as Aug retail sales rose more than expected, but the Sep NAHB housing market index fell more than expected, matching a 3.75-year low.
US MBA mortgage applications fell -4.1% in the week ended September 11, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -0.8% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down -8.8%. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose +12 bp to a 15-month high of 6.97% from 6.85% in the prior week.
US Aug retail sales rose +1.2% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.8% m/m and the biggest increase in 5 months. Aug retail sales ex-autos rose +1.4% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.6% m/m.
The US Aug import price index ex-petroleum rose +0.8% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.3% m/m.
The US Sep NAHB housing market index fell -3 to match a 3.75-year low of 32, weaker than expectations of 34.
Oct WTI crude oil prices (CLV26) fell by more than -3% on Wednesday after US Energy Secretary Wright said 18 million bbl of crude oil and refined products went through the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, easing global supply concerns. Crude losses accelerated Wednesday when Saudi Arabia said it seeks to return about half the capacity of the East-West pipeline within days following a shutdown last week because of drone strikes.
Crude prices earlier surged to a 3.75-month high on Tuesday as disruptions to Middle East supplies persisted. Last Friday, Saudi Arabia closed a major pipeline following attacks, disrupting a key route that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz. The East-West pipeline, which carries 7 million bpd of crude, was closed after threats from Houthi rebels, and officials gave no indication of when it will reopen. The pipeline moves oil away from the Persian Gulf toward the Red Sea, where it can be loaded on tankers. Saudi Arabia told OPEC last Thursday that its crude production in August fell to 6.238 million bpd, the lowest since 1990.
Markets are discounting a 51% chance of a +25 bp Fed rate hike at the next FOMC meeting on October 27-28.
Overseas stock markets settled higher on Wednesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed up +0.48%. China's Shanghai Composite recovered from a 6-week low and closed up +0.71%. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average closed up +0.69%.
Interest Rates
December 10-year T-notes (ZNZ6) closed down by -4.5 ticks on Wednesday. The 10-year T-note yield rose +0.6 bp to 5.008%. T-notes gave up an early advance on Wednesday and settled lower after the FOMC raised interest rates by +25 bp and signaled another +25 bp rate hike later this year. T-notes also fell on hawkish comments from Fed Chair Warsh, who said that inflation was too high for too long and that Wednesday’s rate hike removes a “dose of accommodation,” fueling speculation the Fed may embark on a string of rate hikes to contain inflation.
T-notes initially moved higher on Wednesday after WT crude oil prices fell more than -3%, reducing inflation expectations. T-notes also found support after the Sep NAHB housing market index fell more than expected, matching a 3.75-year low.
European government bond yields moved lower on Wednesday. The 10-year German bund yield fell -3.0 bp to 3.507%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell -9.1 bp to 5.2960%.
Eurozone July industrial production fell -0.1% m/m, a smaller decline than expectations of -0.2% m/m.
UK Aug CPI rose +3.1% y/y, right on expectations, and the largest increase in 5 months. Aug core CPI was unchanged from July at +2.6% y/y, in line with expectations.
Markets are discounting a 52% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at the ECB’s next meeting on October 29.
US Stock Movers
JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) closed down more than -13% to lead trucking companies lower and losers in the S&P 500 after saying it expects Q2 to Q3 earnings to drop -5% to -10%. Also, FedEx Freight Holding (FDXF) closed down more than -4%, and Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings (KNX), Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL), ArcBest (ARCB), and United Parcel Service (UPS) closed down more than -3%. In addition, CH Robinson Worldwide (CHRW), Saia Inc (SAIA), and XPO Inc (XPO) closed down more than -2%, and Marten Transport Ltd (MRTN) closed down more than -1%.
Energy stocks and service providers retreated on Wednesday as WTI crude oil fell more than -3%. Diamondback Energy (FANG) closed down more than -8% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100, and ConocoPhillips (COP) and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) closed down more than -6%. Also, APA Corp (APA) and Devon Energy (DVN) closed down more than -5%, and ExxonMobil Holdings (XOM), Halliburton (HAL), and SLB Limited (SLB) closed down more than -3%. In addition, Chevron (CVX) closed down more than -2%.
Chipmakers and AI stocks moved higher on Wednesday, led by a +4% jump in Intel (INTC) after a report that the company is in talks with South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix to produce memory chips in the US for the first time. Also, Marvell Technology (MRVL) closed up more than +3%, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX), and Western Digital (WDC) closed up more than +1%.
Cloud infrastructure stocks rallied on Wednesday. Lumentum Holdings (LITE) closed up more than +7% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100. Also, Applied Digital (APLD) closed up more than +4%, and CoreWeave (CRWV) closed up more than +3%. In addition, Arista Networks (ANET) and Oracle (ORCL) closed up more than +2%, and Nebius Group NV (NBIS) closed up +0.96%.
ON Semiconductor (ON) closed down more than -9% after announcing its long-term growth strategy and unveiling its Embedded Power Platform at its investor day conference.
Huntington Bancshares (HBAN) closed down more than -6% after cutting its 2027 EPS estimate to $1.75 to $1.83 from an April outlook of $1.90 to $1.93.
FTAI Aviation Ltd (FTAI) closed up more than +7% after announcing a $500 million stock repurchasing plan.
Brinker International (EAT) closed up more than +3% after Seaport Global Securities initiated coverage on the stock with a buy recommendation and a price target of $230.
Earnings Reports (9/17/2026)
American Resources Corp. (AREC).
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.

Stocks Tumble as Fed Hikes Interest Rates and Signals More to Come

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) is up by +0.30% today, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is up by +0.05%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up by +0.68%. E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) are up +0.32%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) are up +0.73%.
Stock indexes are mostly higher today. The broader market is moving higher today as a decline in crude oil prices lowers bond yields and improves market sentiment. Crude prices fell after weekly data from API late Tuesday showed US crude inventories jumped by +7.1 million bbl last week and inventories of gasoline and distillates also expanded. Crude prices added to their losses today after weekly EIA crude inventories fell less than expected and gasoline and distillate supplies increased.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
Chipmakers are also climbing today to support broader market gains, with Intel up more than +4% after a report that the company was in talks with South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix to produce memory chips in the US for the first time.
Today’s US economic news was mixed for stocks as Aug retail sales rose more than expected, but the Sep NAHB housing market index fell more than expected, matching a 3.75-year low.
US MBA mortgage applications fell -4.1% in the week ended September 11, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -0.8% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down -8.8%. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose +12 bp to a 15-month high of 6.97% from 6.85% in the prior week.
US Aug retail sales rose +1.2% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.8% m/m and the biggest increase in 5 months. Aug retail sales ex-autos rose +1.4% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.6% m/m.
The US Aug import price index ex-petroleum rose +0.8% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.3% m/m.
The US Sep NAHB housing market index fell -3 to match a 3.75-year low of 32, weaker than expectations of 34.
The Federal Reserve, as expected, raised interest rates today for the first time since 2023, as inflation pressures remain above its 2% target. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) lifted the fed funds target range by +25 bp to 3.75%-4.00% to “support a timelier return” to the committee's 2% inflation target. The markets will also focus on comments from Fed Chair Warsh at the post-meeting press conference.
Oct WTI crude oil prices (CLV26) are down by more than -2% today after the weekly API report late Tuesday showed US crude inventories rose by +7.1 million bbl last week. Crude prices surged to a 3.75-month high on Tuesday as disruptions to Middle East supplies persisted, further tightening global oil supplies. Last Friday, Saudi Arabia closed a major pipeline following attacks, disrupting a key route that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz. The East-West pipeline, which carries 7 million bpd of crude, was closed after threats from Houthi rebels, and officials gave no indication of when it will reopen. The pipeline moves oil away from the Persian Gulf toward the Red Sea, where it can be loaded on tankers. Saudi Arabia told OPEC last Thursday that its crude production in August fell to 6.238 million bpd, the lowest since 1990.
Overseas stock markets are higher today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +0.36%. China's Shanghai Composite recovered from a 6-week low and closed up +0.71%. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average closed up +0.69%.
Interest Rates
December 10-year T-notes (ZNZ6) are up by +7 ticks today. The 10-year T-note yield is down -4.1 bp to 4.961%. T-notes are moving higher today, with WTI crude oil down more than -2%, lowering inflation expectations. T-notes added to their gains today after the Sep NAHB housing market index fell more than expected, matching a 3.75-year low. Some position squaring ahead of the results of the FOMC meeting today also supported gains in T-note prices.
Gains in T-notes are limited after US Aug retail sales rose more than expected.
European government bond yields are moving lower today. The 10-year German bund yield is down -2.0 bp to 3.518%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -7.7 bp to 5.310%.
Eurozone July industrial production fell -0.1% m/m, a smaller decline than expectations of -0.2% m/m.
UK Aug CPI rose +3.1% y/y, right on expectations, and the largest increase in 5 months. Aug core CPI was unchanged from July at +2.6% y/y, in line with expectations.
Markets are discounting a 53% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at the ECB’s next meeting on October 29.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI stocks are moving higher today, led by a +4% jump in Intel (INTC) after a report that the company is in talks with South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix to produce memory chips in the US for the first time. Also, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Marvell Technology (MRVL), and Western Digital (WDC) are up more than +3%. In addition, ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) and Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) are up more than +2%, and ASML Holding NV (ASML), Nvidia (NVDA), KLA Corp (KLAC), Analog Devices (ADI), and Lam Research (LRCX) are up more than +1%.
Cloud infrastructure stocks are rallying today. Lumentum Holdings (LITE) is up more than +7% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100. Also, Applied Digital (APLD), and Nebius Group NV (NBIS) are up more than +4%. In addition, Arista Networks (ANET) and CoreWeave (CRWV) are up more than +3%, and Oracle (ORCL) is up more than +1%.
JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) is down more than -13% to lead trucking companies lower and losers in the S&P 500 after saying it expects Q3 earnings to drop -5% to -10% sequentially. Also, Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings (KNX) is down more than -4%, and FedEx Freight Holding (FDXF), ArcBest (ARCB), Saia Inc (SAIA), and XPO Inc (XPO) are down more than -3%. In addition, Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL), CH Robinson Worldwide (CHRW), and United Parcel Service (UPS), are down more than -2%, and Marten Transport Ltd (MRTN) is down more than -1%.
Energy stocks and service providers are falling today, with WTI crude oil down more than -2%. Diamondback Energy (FANG) is down more than -8% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100, and APA Corp (APA) is down more than -6%. Also, ConocoPhillips (COP) and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) are down more than -5%, and Devon Energy (DVN) is down more than -4%. In addition, ExxonMobil Holdings (XOM) is down more than -3%, and Chevron (CVX) is down more than -3% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials. Finally, Slb Limited (SLB) is down more than -2% and Phillips 66 (PSX) is down more than -1%.
FTAI Aviation Ltd (FTAI) is up more than +6% after announcing a $500 million stock repurchasing plan.
Brinker International (EAT) is up more than +2% after Seaport Global Securities initiated coverage on the stock with a buy recommendation and a price target of $230.
Huntington Bancshares (HBAN) is down more than -2% after cutting its 2027 EPS estimate to $1.75 to $1.83 from an April outlook of $1.90 to $1.93.
Earnings Reports (9/16/2026)
Aeluma Inc (ALMU), and Lennar Corp (LEN).
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.

Stocks Hold Gains After Fed Hikes Key Rate

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) is up by +0.40% today, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is down by -0.02%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up by +0.90%. E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) are up +0.38%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) are up +0.84%.
Stock indexes are mostly higher today. The broader market is moving higher today as a decline in crude oil prices lowers bond yields and improves market sentiment. Crude prices fell after weekly data from API late Tuesday showed US crude inventories jumped by +7.1 million bbl last week and inventories of gasoline and distillates also expanded. Crude prices added to their losses today after weekly EIA crude inventories fell less than expected and gasoline and distillate supplies increased.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
Chipmakers are also climbing today to support broader market gains, with Intel up more than +4% after a report that the company was in talks with South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix to produce memory chips in the US for the first time.
Today’s US economic news was mixed for stocks as Aug retail sales rose more than expected, but the Sep NAHB housing market index fell more than expected, matching a 3.75-year low.
US MBA mortgage applications fell -4.1% in the week ended September 11, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -0.8% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down -8.8%. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose +12 bp to a 15-month high of 6.97% from 6.85% in the prior week.
US Aug retail sales rose +1.2% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.8% m/m and the biggest increase in 5 months. Aug retail sales ex-autos rose +1.4% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.6% m/m.
The US Aug import price index ex-petroleum rose +0.8% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.3% m/m.
The US Sep NAHB housing market index fell -3 to match a 3.75-year low of 32, weaker than expectations of 34.
The Federal Reserve is expected to raise interest rates later today for the first time since 2023, as inflation pressures remain above its 2% target. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) is expected to lift the fed funds target range by +25 bp to 3.75%-4.00% and provide updated economic forecasts and rate projections. The markets will also focus on comments from Fed Chair Warsh at the post-meeting press conference.
Oct WTI crude oil prices (CLV26) are down by more than -2% today after the weekly API report late Tuesday showed US crude inventories rose by +7.1 million bbl last week. Crude prices surged to a 3.75-month high on Tuesday as disruptions to Middle East supplies persisted, further tightening global oil supplies. Last Friday, Saudi Arabia closed a major pipeline following attacks, disrupting a key route that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz. The East-West pipeline, which carries 7 million bpd of crude, was closed after threats from Houthi rebels, and officials gave no indication of when it will reopen. The pipeline moves oil away from the Persian Gulf toward the Red Sea, where it can be loaded on tankers. Saudi Arabia told OPEC last Thursday that its crude production in August fell to 6.238 million bpd, the lowest since 1990.
Markets are discounting a 94% chance of a +25 bp Fed rate hike at the conclusion of today’s FOMC meeting.
Overseas stock markets are higher today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +0.36%. China's Shanghai Composite recovered from a 6-week low and closed up +0.71%. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average closed up +0.69%.
Interest Rates
December 10-year T-notes (ZNZ6) are up by +7 ticks today. The 10-year T-note yield is down -4.1 bp to 4.961%. T-notes are moving higher today, with WTI crude oil down more than -2%, lowering inflation expectations. T-notes added to their gains today after the Sep NAHB housing market index fell more than expected, matching a 3.75-year low. Some position squaring ahead of the results of the FOMC meeting later today is also supporting gains in T-note prices.
Gains in T-notes are limited after US Aug retail sales rose more than expected. Gains in T-notes are also limited due to expectations that the Fed will raise interest rates by +25 bp at the conclusion of today’s FOMC meeting and may deliver a hawkish stance looking forward.
European government bond yields are moving lower today. The 10-year German bund yield is down -2.0 bp to 3.518%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -7.7 bp to 5.310%.
Eurozone July industrial production fell -0.1% m/m, a smaller decline than expectations of -0.2% m/m.
UK Aug CPI rose +3.1% y/y, right on expectations, and the largest increase in 5 months. Aug core CPI was unchanged from July at +2.6% y/y, in line with expectations.
Markets are discounting a 53% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at the ECB’s next meeting on October 29.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI stocks are moving higher today, led by a +4% jump in Intel (INTC) after a report that the company is in talks with South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix to produce memory chips in the US for the first time. Also, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Marvell Technology (MRVL), and Western Digital (WDC) are up more than +3%. In addition, ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) and Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) are up more than +2%, and ASML Holding NV (ASML), Nvidia (NVDA), KLA Corp (KLAC), Analog Devices (ADI), and Lam Research (LRCX) are up more than +1%.
Cloud infrastructure stocks are rallying today. Lumentum Holdings (LITE) is up more than +7% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100. Also, Applied Digital (APLD), and Nebius Group NV (NBIS) are up more than +4%. In addition, Arista Networks (ANET) and CoreWeave (CRWV) are up more than +3%, and Oracle (ORCL) is up more than +1%.
JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) is down more than -13% to lead trucking companies lower and losers in the S&P 500 after saying it expects Q2 to Q3 earnings to drop -5% to -10%. Also, Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings (KNX) is down more than -4%, and FedEx Freight Holding (FDXF), ArcBest (ARCB), Saia Inc (SAIA), and XPO Inc (XPO) are down more than -3%. In addition, Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL), CH Robinson Worldwide (CHRW), and United Parcel Service (UPS), are down more than -2%, and Marten Transport Ltd (MRTN) is down more than -1%.
Energy stocks and service providers are falling today, with WTI crude oil down more than -2%. Diamondback Energy (FANG) is down more than -8% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100, and APA Corp (APA) is down more than -6%. Also, ConocoPhillips (COP) and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) are down more than -5%, and Devon Energy (DVN) is down more than -4%. In addition, ExxonMobil Holdings (XOM) is down more than -3%, and Chevron (CVX) is down more than -3% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials. Finally, Slb Limited (SLB) is down more than -2% and Phillips 66 (PSX) is down more than -1%.
FTAI Aviation Ltd (FTAI) is up more than +6% after announcing a $500 million stock repurchasing plan.
Brinker International (EAT) is up more than +2% after Seaport Global Securities initiated coverage on the stock with a buy recommendation and a price target of $230.
Huntington Bancshares (HBAN) is down more than -2% after cutting its 2027 EPS estimate to $1.75 to $1.83 from an April outlook of $1.90 to $1.93.
Earnings Reports (9/16/2026)
Aeluma Inc (ALMU), and Lennar Corp (LEN).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart

Stocks Mostly Higher Ahead of Fed Decision

A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Brinker International (EAT). Shares have lost about 10% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.
But investors have to be wondering, will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Brinker International due for a breakout? Well, first let's take a quick look at the latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Brinker International, Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.
Brinker Q4 Earnings Meet Estimates, Revenues Beat on Chili's Growth
Brinker reported fourth-quarter fiscal 2026 results, with earnings in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate while revenues surpassed the same. Both the top and bottom lines increased on a year-over-year basis.
In the quarter under review, Brinker reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $3.07, up 23.3% year over year and in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
Total revenues rose 5.1% year over year to $1.54 billion and beat the consensus mark by 0.4%.
The quarter benefited from sustained momentum at Chili’s, supported by positive traffic, menu pricing, strong everyday value, the Big Crispy launch and continued operational improvements. However, results were partly pressured by weaker traffic and restaurant closures at Maggiano’s, along with higher commodity, advertising and insurance costs.
EAT's Chili's Momentum Extends in Q4
Chili’s total revenues increased 6.2% year over year to $1.423 billion. Company sales rose 6.2% to $1.409 billion, while franchise revenues advanced 12.5% to $14.4 million. The brand continued to benefit from its value platform and menu innovation.
Comparable restaurant sales for Chili's increased 5.6% year over year, reflecting 4.3% pricing and 1.5% traffic growth, partly offset by a 0.2% negative mix impact. Management said the Big Crispy chicken sandwich helped sustain momentum, with sales rising to 55 sandwiches per restaurant per day by quarter-end from 20 before the launch.
Brinker's Maggiano's Trends Remain Challenged
Maggiano’s total revenues declined 7.8% year over year to $112.8 million. Company sales also fell 7.8% to $112.6 million, reflecting lower traffic and restaurant closures, partly offset by menu pricing.
Comparable restaurant sales decreased 2.5%. Traffic dropped 5.3% and mix was down 0.1%, while price contributed 2.9%. The brand’s non-GAAP restaurant operating margin contracted to 10.3% from 13.3%. Management said the turnaround is progressing more slowly than planned and modeled flat revenues and profits for fiscal 2027.
EAT's Q4 Margins Expand Despite Food Inflation
Operating income increased 17% year over year to $167 million, while operating income margin expanded 110 basis points to 10.9%. Non-GAAP restaurant operating margin improved 20 basis points to 18% of company sales. Net income rose 22.5% to $131.1 million, and GAAP earnings advanced to $2.99 from $2.30. Adjusted EBITDA increased 7.2% to $227.6 million.
Food and beverage costs rose to 26.3% of company sales from 25.5%, pressured by 4.4% commodity inflation, mainly higher beef costs and a temporary spike in tomato prices. Restaurant labor improved 90 basis points to 31.3%, as sales leverage offset 3.1% wage inflation and other investments. Restaurant expenses edged down 10 basis points to 24.4%. Advertising expense was 3% of sales, up 20 basis points, supporting the Big Crispy campaign.
Brinker's Cash Flow Supports Capital Returns
For fiscal 2026, net cash provided by operating activities rose 16.3% year over year to $789.4 million. Cash and cash equivalents ended the year at $110 million compared with $18.9 million a year earlier. Payments for property and equipment totaled $231.9 million.
Brinker used operating cash flow to repurchase $400 million of common stock during fiscal 2026. The board subsequently authorized total repurchase capacity of $750 million. After year-end, the company redeemed $350 million of 8.25% notes using its revolving credit facility, which management expects to generate interest savings in fiscal 2027. Brinker also plans to acquire 12 Chili’s franchise restaurants in Alabama and Mississippi.
EAT's FY27 Outlook Targets Continued Growth
For fiscal 2027, EAT expects total revenues of $6.15-$6.27 billion and adjusted earnings of $12.60-$13.40 per share. Capital expenditures are projected at $265-$285 million, with diluted weighted average shares of 42-43 million. The company plans 60-80 Chili’s reimages after completing 11 in fiscal 2026.
The outlook includes a 53rd operating week, which is expected to add about 2% to revenues and $0.70 to adjusted earnings per share. Management assumes low-single-digit commodity and wage inflation and three net new company-owned restaurant openings. For Chili’s, the plan assumes mid-single-digit same-store sales growth and positive traffic for the remainder of the year, along with 20-40 basis points of restaurant-level margin improvement on a 52-week basis.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?
In the past month, investors have witnessed a upward trend in estimates review.
The consensus estimate has shifted 13.04% due to these changes.
VGM Scores
Currently, Brinker International has a strong Growth Score of A, a score with the same score on the momentum front. Charting a somewhat similar path, the stock was allocated a grade of B on the value side, putting it in the top 40% for this investment strategy.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of A. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
Estimates have been trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions looks promising. It comes with little surprise Brinker International has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). We expect an above average return from the stock in the next few months.
Performance of an Industry Player
Brinker International is part of the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry. Over the past month, Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG), a stock from the same industry, has gained 10.8%. The company reported its results for the quarter ended June 2026 more than a month ago.
Chipotle reported revenues of $3.35 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +9.3%. EPS of $0.33 for the same period compares with $0.33 a year ago.
Chipotle is expected to post earnings of $0.29 per share for the current quarter, representing no change from the year-ago quarter. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -0.3%.
The overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions translate into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for Chipotle. Also, the stock has a VGM Score of C.
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