Southwest Airlines Co. operates as a passenger airline company that provides scheduled air transportation services in the United States and near-international markets. As of December 31, 2023, the company operated a total fleet of 817 Boeing 737 aircraft; and served 121 destinations in 42 states, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as ten near-international countries, including Mexico, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Aruba, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Belize, Cuba, the Cayman Islands, and Turks and Caicos. It also provides inflight entertainment and connectivity services on Wi-Fi enabled aircraft; and Rapid Rewards loyalty program that enables program members to earn points for dollars spent on Southwest base fares. In addition, the company offers a suite of digital platforms to support customers' travel needs, including websites and apps; and SWABIZ, an online booking tool. Further, it provides ancillary services, such as Southwest's EarlyBird Check-In, upgraded boarding, and transportation of pets and unaccompanied minors. Southwest Airlines Co. was incorporated in 1967 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

Southwest Airlines Company

Shares of Allegiant Travel Company (ALGT) have had a good time on the bourses of late, improving in double-digits over the past six months. The encouraging price performance resulted in ALGT outperforming its industry in the said time frame. Additionally, ALGT’s price performance looks favorable compared with that of other industry players like Southwest Airlines Co. LUV) and Ryanair Holdings RYAAY in the same timeframe.
ALGT Stock’s Six-Month Price Comparison
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Given the recent rally, the question that naturally arises is whether ALGT stock can sustain its bullish price performance or should investors book profits now. Before that, let's delve deep to unearth the reasons behind this northward price movement.
Tailwinds Working in Favor of ALGT
Improvement in air-travel demand, following the end of the pandemic and normalization of economic activities, bodes well for Allegiant's top line. With people taking to the skies, ALGT’s top line increased 3.5% on a year-over-year basis during the first nine months of 2025, owing to a 3.9% rise in passenger revenues, which accounted for the bulk (88.6%) of the top line. Given this encouraging backdrop, for the fourth quarter of 2025, capacity (measured in available seat miles or ASMs) (for scheduled service) is expected to increase 10% on a year-over-year basis. Total system ASM is projected to gain 9.5% on a year-over-year basis. Fourth-quarter adjusted operating margin is expected to lie between 10% and 12%.
Allegiant's fleet-modernization initiatives to cater to the increased travel demand are encouraging. The inclusion of modern planes in its fleet and the retirement of the old ones align with its environmentally friendly approach. ALGT ended 2024 with 125 (34 A319, 87 A320 and four 737-8200) planes in its fleet. ALGT ended third-quarter 2025 with 121 (29 A319, 82 A320 and 10 Boeing 737-8200) planes. The company aims to have a fleet size of 123 by the end of 2025.
ALGT’s liquidity position looks encouraging. The airline ended third-quarter 2025 with cash and cash equivalents of $985.32 million, higher than the current debt level of $270.63 million. This implies that the company has sufficient cash to meet its current debt obligations.
A strong balance sheet enables the company to reward shareholders with dividends and share repurchases. As a reflection of its shareholder-friendly stance, ALGT paid out dividends worth $21.9 million and repurchased shares worth $6 million in 2024. During the first nine months of 2025, ALGT repurchased shares worth $12.95 million (did not pay any dividends). Such shareholder-friendly initiatives should boost investor confidence and positively impact the bottom line.
What Do Earnings Estimates Say for ALGT?
Concurrent with its third-quarter 2025 earnings release, ALGT announced it had raised its full-year earnings guidance. For 2025, adjusted consolidated earnings per share (EPS) are now expected to be above $3.00 (prior view: above $2.25). Adjusted EPS (airline) is now anticipated to be above $4.35 (prior view: above $3.25). The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 EPS is currently pegged at $2.97.
The positive sentiment surrounding the stock is evident from the fact that the Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALGT’s fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 earnings has been raised in the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Impressive Valuation Picture for ALGT Stock
From a valuation perspective, ALGT is trading at a discount compared to the industry, going by its trailing 12-month price-to-book (P/B)ratio. The stock has a forward 12-month P/B-TTM of 1.53X compared with 3.10X for the industry over the past five years. These factors indicate that the stock’s valuation is attractive. The company has a Value Score of A.
ALGT P/B Ratio (trailing 12 months) Vs. Industry
< Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Headwinds Weighing on ALGT Stock
Allegiant is being hurt by the tariff-induced challenging macroeconomic backdrop. The ongoing economic uncertainties and the resultant reduction in consumer and corporate confidence have the potential to hurt domestic air travel demand.
Production delays at Boeing,due to quality control checks and regulatory reviews by the Federal Aviation Administration, have been hurting the fleet-related plans of most airline companies, and it is no different for ALGT. Delays in aircraft delivery will lead to lower profitability than expected from the addition of these aircraft to ALGT’s existing fleet. Further, ALGT will be burdened with increased maintenance costs for those aircraft that would have otherwise been retired and raised interest costs for funds borrowed for pre-delivery deposits. Delivery delays are also expected to limit capacity growth going forward.
Labor costs have been moving up of late. Labor cost increase of 19.2% in 2024 (up 24.5% in 2023) swamped the 20.3% increase in total operating expenses in 2024, despite costs on aircraft fuel decreasing year over year (down 9.8% in 2024 and down 14.6% in 2023). This was followed by a 6.4% rise in operating expenses during the first nine months of 2025 (despite aircraft fuel expense down 1% year over year). The increase was attributable to deals inked with various labor groups. ALGT expects to continue experiencing increased cost pressure from the labor agreements.
Time to Retain ALGT
It is understood that ALGT stock is attractively valued, and strong passenger volumes bode well for Allegiant. Efforts to modernize its fleet are praiseworthy as well. Despite these positives, we advise investors not to buy ALGT stock now due to headwinds like high labor costs, Boeing and Airbus-related delivery delays and share price volatility. ALGT is also hurt by tariff-induced economic uncertainties and the resultant reduction in consumer and corporate confidence.
We advise investors to wait for a better entry point. For those who already own the stock, it will be prudent to stay invested. The company’s current Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) justifies our analysis. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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Allegiant Gains 52% in 6 Months: What Should Investors Do Now?

Looking at the universe of stocks we cover at Dividend Channel, on 12/26/25, Flowserve Corp (Symbol: FLS), Southwest Airlines Co (Symbol: LUV), and CTS Corp (Symbol: CTS) will all trade ex-dividend for their respective upcoming dividends. Flowserve Corp will pay its quarterly dividend of $0.21 on 1/9/26, Southwest Airlines Co will pay its quarterly dividend of $0.18 on 1/16/26, and CTS Corp will pay its quarterly dividend of $0.04 on 1/23/26. As a percentage of FLS's recent stock price of $71.24, this dividend works out to approximately 0.29%, so look for shares of Flowserve Corp to trade 0.29% lower — all else being equal — when FLS shares open for trading on 12/26/25. Similarly, investors should look for LUV to open 0.43% lower in price and for CTS to open 0.09% lower, all else being equal.
Below are dividend history charts for FLS, LUV, and CTS, showing historical dividends prior to the most recent ones declared.
Flowserve Corp (Symbol: FLS):
Southwest Airlines Co (Symbol: LUV):
CTS Corp (Symbol: CTS):
In general, dividends are not always predictable, following the ups and downs of company profits over time. Therefore, a good first due diligence step in forming an expectation of annual yield going forward, is looking at the history above, for a sense of stability over time. This can help in judging whether the most recent dividends from these companies are likely to continue. If they do continue, the current estimated yields on annualized basis would be 1.18% for Flowserve Corp, 1.73% for Southwest Airlines Co, and 0.36% for CTS Corp.
In Wednesday trading, Flowserve Corp shares are currently down about 0.5%, Southwest Airlines Co shares are down about 1.6%, and CTS Corp shares are up about 0.2% on the day.
Click here to learn which 25 S.A.F.E. dividend stocks should be on your radar screen »
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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.

Ex-Dividend Reminder: Flowserve, Southwest Airlines and CTS

The average one-year price target for Southwest Airlines (NYSE:LUV) has been revised to $38.83 / share. This is an increase of 13.05% from the prior estimate of $34.34 dated December 3, 2025.
The price target is an average of many targets provided by analysts. The latest targets range from a low of $24.24 to a high of $58.80 / share. The average price target represents a decrease of 5.90% from the latest reported closing price of $41.26 / share.
What is the Fund Sentiment?
There are 1,411 funds or institutions reporting positions in Southwest Airlines. This is an decrease of 45 owner(s) or 3.09% in the last quarter. Average portfolio weight of all funds dedicated to LUV is 0.18%, an increase of 1.06%. Total shares owned by institutions increased in the last three months by 1.34% to 605,077K shares. The put/call ratio of LUV is 1.29, indicating a bearish outlook.
What are Other Shareholders Doing?
Elliott Investment Management holds 51,128K shares representing 9.89% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 53,978K shares , representing a decrease of 5.57%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 27.85% over the last quarter.
Primecap Management holds 47,996K shares representing 9.28% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 48,844K shares , representing a decrease of 1.77%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 6.58% over the last quarter.
Franklin Resources holds 37,488K shares representing 7.25% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 35,325K shares , representing an increase of 5.77%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 1.82% over the last quarter.
UBS Group holds 28,282K shares representing 5.47% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 10,304K shares , representing an increase of 63.57%. The firm increased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 144.31% over the last quarter.
VPMCX - Vanguard PRIMECAP Fund Investor Shares holds 25,463K shares representing 4.92% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 25,373K shares , representing an increase of 0.35%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 7.30% over the last quarter.
Fintel is one of the most comprehensive investing research platforms available to individual investors, traders, financial advisors, and small hedge funds.
Our data covers the world, and includes fundamentals, analyst reports, ownership data and fund sentiment, options sentiment, insider trading, options flow, unusual options trades, and much more. Additionally, our exclusive stock picks are powered by advanced, backtested quantitative models for improved profits.
This story originally appeared on Fintel.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Southwest Airlines (LUV) Price Target Increased by 13.05% to 38.83

Fintel reports that on December 18, 2025, Wells Fargo initiated coverage of Southwest Airlines (NYSE:LUV) with a Equal-Weight recommendation.
Analyst Price Forecast Suggests 15.66% Downside
As of December 6, 2025, the average one-year price target for Southwest Airlines is $34.34/share. The forecasts range from a low of $19.19 to a high of $48.30. The average price target represents a decrease of 15.66% from its latest reported closing price of $40.72 / share.
See our leaderboard of companies with the largest price target upside.
The projected annual revenue for Southwest Airlines is 30,106MM, an increase of 9.27%. The projected annual non-GAAP EPS is 5.61.
What is the Fund Sentiment?
There are 1,411 funds or institutions reporting positions in Southwest Airlines. This is an decrease of 46 owner(s) or 3.16% in the last quarter. Average portfolio weight of all funds dedicated to LUV is 0.18%, an increase of 0.94%. Total shares owned by institutions increased in the last three months by 1.33% to 605,077K shares. The put/call ratio of LUV is 1.16, indicating a bearish outlook.
What are Other Shareholders Doing?
Elliott Investment Management holds 51,128K shares representing 9.89% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 53,978K shares , representing a decrease of 5.57%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 27.85% over the last quarter.
Primecap Management holds 47,996K shares representing 9.28% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 48,844K shares , representing a decrease of 1.77%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 6.58% over the last quarter.
Franklin Resources holds 37,488K shares representing 7.25% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 35,325K shares , representing an increase of 5.77%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 1.82% over the last quarter.
UBS Group holds 28,282K shares representing 5.47% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 10,304K shares , representing an increase of 63.57%. The firm increased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 144.31% over the last quarter.
VPMCX - Vanguard PRIMECAP Fund Investor Shares holds 25,463K shares representing 4.92% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 25,373K shares , representing an increase of 0.35%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 7.30% over the last quarter.
Fintel is one of the most comprehensive investing research platforms available to individual investors, traders, financial advisors, and small hedge funds.
Our data covers the world, and includes fundamentals, analyst reports, ownership data and fund sentiment, options sentiment, insider trading, options flow, unusual options trades, and much more. Additionally, our exclusive stock picks are powered by advanced, backtested quantitative models for improved profits.
This story originally appeared on Fintel.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Wells Fargo Initiates Coverage of Southwest Airlines (LUV) with Equal-Weight Recommendation

Southwest Airlines LUV is strengthening its international strategy by partnering with Turkish Airlines to offer one-ticket transatlantic travel, beginning in early 2026. The agreement allows travelers to connect seamlessly between the United States and Istanbul, unlocking access to Turkish Airlines’ global network while driving additional passenger flows through Southwest’s U.S. gateway airports. This partnership expands Southwest’s global reach without requiring it to operate long-haul international flights.
LUV continues to rely on strategic partnerships to accelerate international expansion. By adding Turkish Airlines to its growing list of overseas partners, the airline broadens connectivity across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa while significantly increasing global brand exposure. Turkish Airlines’ extensive network strengthens the appeal of LUV’s domestic routes for international travelers.
Southwest Airlines also aligns this partnership with major product enhancements. The airline introduces a redesigned cabin and launches assigned and extra-legroom seating in January 2026, improving comfort and flexibility for connecting passengers. Together, these initiatives reinforce Southwest Airlines’ push to modernize its offering while pursuing efficient, partnership-driven global growth. LUV already has partnerships with Icelandair, Condor, EVA Air, China Airlines and Philippine Airlines.PTop of Form
LUV Stock Price Performance
Owing to such expansion efforts, the company’s share prices have surged 26% over the past 90 days as compared with the Transportation - Airline industry’s 15.9% rise.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
LUV’s Zacks Rank
LUV currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Stocks to Consider
Investors interested in the Zacks Transportation sector should consider Expeditors International of Washington EXPD and FedEx FDX.
EXPD currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
EXPD has an expected earnings growth rate of 3.50% for the current year. The company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average beat of 13.94%.
FDX currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
The company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate in three of the trailing four quarters and missed once in the remaining, delivering an average beat of 2.03%.
Zacks Naming Top 10 Stocks for 2026
Want to be tipped off early to our 10 top picks for the entirety of 2026? History suggests their performance could be sensational.
From 2012 (when our Director of Research Sheraz Mian assumed responsibility for the portfolio) through November, 2025, the Zacks Top 10 Stocks gained +2,530.8%, more than QUADRUPLING the S&P 500’s +570.3%.
Now Sheraz is combing through 4,400 companies to handpick the best 10 tickers to buy and hold in 2026. Don’t miss your chance to get in on these stocks when they’re released on January 5.
Be First to New Top 10 Stocks >>
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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.

Southwest Airlines Ties Up With Turkish Airlines for Global Connection

Fintel reports that on December 16, 2025, Barclays upgraded their outlook for Southwest Airlines (NYSE:LUV) from Equal-Weight to Overweight.
Analyst Price Forecast Suggests 18.59% Downside
As of December 6, 2025, the average one-year price target for Southwest Airlines is $34.34/share. The forecasts range from a low of $19.19 to a high of $48.30. The average price target represents a decrease of 18.59% from its latest reported closing price of $42.19 / share.
See our leaderboard of companies with the largest price target upside.
The projected annual revenue for Southwest Airlines is 30,106MM, an increase of 9.27%. The projected annual non-GAAP EPS is 5.61.
What is the Fund Sentiment?
There are 1,411 funds or institutions reporting positions in Southwest Airlines. This is an decrease of 46 owner(s) or 3.16% in the last quarter. Average portfolio weight of all funds dedicated to LUV is 0.18%, an increase of 0.93%. Total shares owned by institutions increased in the last three months by 1.33% to 605,077K shares. The put/call ratio of LUV is 1.15, indicating a bearish outlook.
What are Other Shareholders Doing?
Elliott Investment Management holds 51,128K shares representing 9.89% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 53,978K shares , representing a decrease of 5.57%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 27.85% over the last quarter.
Primecap Management holds 47,996K shares representing 9.28% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 48,844K shares , representing a decrease of 1.77%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 6.58% over the last quarter.
Franklin Resources holds 37,488K shares representing 7.25% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 35,325K shares , representing an increase of 5.77%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 1.82% over the last quarter.
UBS Group holds 28,282K shares representing 5.47% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 10,304K shares , representing an increase of 63.57%. The firm increased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 144.31% over the last quarter.
VPMCX - Vanguard PRIMECAP Fund Investor Shares holds 25,463K shares representing 4.92% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 25,373K shares , representing an increase of 0.35%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in LUV by 7.30% over the last quarter.
Fintel is one of the most comprehensive investing research platforms available to individual investors, traders, financial advisors, and small hedge funds.
Our data covers the world, and includes fundamentals, analyst reports, ownership data and fund sentiment, options sentiment, insider trading, options flow, unusual options trades, and much more. Additionally, our exclusive stock picks are powered by advanced, backtested quantitative models for improved profits.
This story originally appeared on Fintel.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Barclays Upgrades Southwest Airlines (LUV)

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Tuesday closed down by -0.24%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) closed down by -0.62%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up by +0.26%. December E-mini S&P futures (ESZ25) fell -0.25%, and December E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQZ25) rose +0.25%.
Stock indexes settled mixed on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 falling to a 3-week low. The broader market was under pressure on Tuesday as US financial reports pointed to a sluggish economy. The Nov unemployment rate rose to a 4-year high, Oct retail sales stagnated, and US manufacturing activity slowed to a 5-month low. Also, a slump in energy producers on Tuesday weighed on the broader market after WTI crude oil fell more than -2% to a 4.75-year low. However, strength in the Magnificent Seven technology stocks on Tuesday was positive for the overall market, lifting the Nasdaq 100 from a 3-week low into positive territory.
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Stocks also found some support from Tuesday’s Fed-friendly US economic reports on Nov payrolls and Oct retail sales, which bolster expectations that the Fed will continue to ease monetary policy. Also, wage pressures are easing as Nov hourly earnings posted their smallest year-on-year increase in 4.5 years. The 10-year T-note yield fell -2 bp to 4.15%.
US Nov nonfarm payrolls rose by +64,000, stronger than expectations of +50,000. Oct nonfarm payrolls fell by -105,000, weaker than expectations of -25,000. The Nov unemployment rate rose +0.1 to a 4-year high of 4.6%.
US Nov average hourly earnings rose +0.1% m/m and +3.5% y/y, weaker than expectations of +0.3% m/m and +3.6% y/y, with the +3.5% y/y gain the smallest year-on-year increase in 4.5 years.
US Oct retail sales were unchanged m/m, weaker than expectations of +0.1% m/m. However, Oct retail sales ex-autos rose +0.4% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.2% m/m.
The US Dec S&P manufacturing PMI fell -0.4 to a 5-month low of 51.8, weaker than expectations of 52.1.
Comments on Tuesday from Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic were hawkish and negative for stocks when he said, "After wrestling with all the considerations, today I continue to view price stability as the clearer and more pressing risk despite shifts in the labor market." He added that "he sees little to suggest that price pressures will dissipate before mid to late 2026, at the earliest, and expects inflation to remain above 2.5% even at the end of 2026."
This week's market focus will be on US economic news. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to fall -11,000 to 225,000. Also, Nov CPI is expected to be +3.1% y/y, and Nov core CPI is expected to be +3.0% y/y. On Friday, Nov existing home sales are expected to be up +1.2% m/m to 4.15 million. Also, the University of Michigan Dec consumer sentiment index is expected to be revised upward by +0.2 to 53.5 from the previously reported 53.3.
The markets are discounting a 24% chance that the FOMC will cut the fed funds target range by 25 bp at the next FOMC meeting on January 27-28.
Overseas stock markets settled lower on Wednesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed down -0.60%. China’s Shanghai Composite fell to a 2-month low and closed down -1.11%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 slid to a 2-week low and closed down -1.56%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) on Tuesday closed up by +7.5 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield fell -2.7 bp to 4.145%. T-notes moved higher on Tuesday after the US Nov employment rate rose to a 4-year high and Nov average hourly earnings posted their smallest year-on-year increase in 4.5 years. Also, Oct retail sales rose less than expected, and the Dec S&P manufacturing PMI fell to a 5-month low, which are dovish factors for Fed policy. In addition, falling inflation expectations were supportive of T-notes as the 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 2-week low on Tuesday at 2.231%.
Gains in T-notes were limited on Tuesday after a report on US Oct retail sales ex-autos rose more than expected, a hawkish factor for Fed policy. Also, hawkish comments from Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic were bearish for T-notes when he said elevated price pressures are expected to persist through most of next year.
The steepening yield curve is bearish for T-note prices. Steepening trades occur when bond investors buy short-term government debt and sell long -term debt. The yield curve has steepened since last Wednesday’s FOMC meeting, when the Fed said it would begin purchasing up to $40 billion of short-term T-bills a month to boost liquidity in the financial system. Longer-term Treasury securities are also under pressure from concerns about inflation and the Fed’s independence.
European government bond yields are mixed today. The 10-year German bund yield fell -0.8 bp to 2.845%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 3-week high of 4.561% and finished up +2.3 bp to 4.518%.
The Eurozone Dec S&P manufacturing PMI unexpectedly fell -0.4 to 49.2, weaker than expectations of an increase to 49.9 and the steepest pace of contraction in 8 months.
The German Dec ZEW survey expectations of economic growth unexpectedly rose by +7.3 to a 5-month high of 45.8, stronger than expectations of a decline to 38.4.
The UK Dec S&P manufacturing PMI rose +1.0 to 51.2, stronger than expectations of 50.3 and the fastest pace of expansion in 15 months.
Swaps are discounting a 0% chance for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at its next policy meeting on Thursday.
US Stock Movers
Energy producers and energy service providers sold off on Tuesday and weighed on the broader market, after WTI crude oil fell more than 3% to a 4.75-year low. Phillips 66 (PSX) closed down more than -6% to lead losers in the S&P 500, and Baker Hughes (BKR) closed down more than -3% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100. Also, APA Corp (APA) closed down more than -5%, and Marathon Petroleum (MPC) and Halliburton (HAL) closed down more than -4%. In addition, Occidental Petroleum (OXY), ConocoPhillips (COP), Diamondback Energy (FANG), and Valero Energy (VLO) closed down more than -3%. Finally, Devon Energy (DVN), Exxon Mobil (XOM), and Chevron (CVX) closed down more than -2%.
The strength of the Magnificent Seven technology stocks on Tuesday was a supportive factor for the overall market. Tesla (TSLA) closed up more than +3%, and Meta Platforms (META) closed up more than +1%. Also, Nvidia (NVDA) closed up +0.81%, Microsoft (MSFT) closed up +0.33%, Apple (AAPL) closed up +0.18%, and Amazon.com (AMZN) closed up +0.01%. Bucking the trend, Alphabet (GOOGL) closed down -0.54%.
Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp (BAH) closed down more than -7% after it announced that CFO Calderone will resign from the company effective February 1.
Humana (HUM) closed down more than -6% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $17.000, below the consensus of $17.06.
Pfizer Inc (PFE) closed down more than -3% after forecasting 2026 revenue of $59.5 billion to $62.5 billion, the midpoint below the consensus of $61.63 billion.
Illinois Tool Works (ITW) closed down more than -3% after Goldman Sachs downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $230.
Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM) closed down more than -3% after Morgan Stanley downgraded the stock to underweight from equal weight with a price target of $50.
Comcast (CMCSA) closed up more than +5% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 after CNBC commented about trading activity in the swaps market that may suggest involvement by activist investors.
Cognex (CGNX) closed up more than +5% after Goldman Sachs double-upgraded the stock to buy from sell with a price target of $50.
Estee Lauder (EL) closed up more than +3% after Bank of America named the stock as its top pick for beauty for 2026, with a price target of $130.
Robinhood Markets (HOOD) closed up more than +3% after Trust Securities initiated coverage on the stock with a buy recommendation and a price target of $155.
Okta Inc (OKTA) closed up more than +2% after Jeffries upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $125.
Southwest Airlines (LUV) closed up more than +1% after Barclays upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $56.
Earnings Reports(12/17/2025)
General Mills Inc (GIS), Jabil Inc (JBL), Micron Technology Inc (MU), Toro Co/The (TTC).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Settle Mixed on Soft US Economic News

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down by -0.32%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is down by -0.293%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down by -0.14%. December E-mini S&P futures (ESZ25) are down -0.30%, and December E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQZ25) are down -0.12%.
Stock indexes are sliding today, with the S&P 500 falling to a 2.5-week low and the Nasdaq 100 dropping to a 3-week low. Stocks are under pressure today as US financial reports point to a sluggish economy. The Nov unemployment rate rose to a 4-year high, Oct retail sales stagnated, and US manufacturing activity slowed to a 5-month low. Also, a slump in energy producers today is weighing on the broader market after WTI crude oil fell more than 3% to a 4.75-year low.
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Stocks found some support from today’s Fed-friendly US economic reports on Nov payrolls and Oct retail sales, which bolster expectations that the Fed will continue to ease monetary policy. Also, wage pressures are easing as Nov hourly earnings posted their smallest year-on-year increase in 4.5 years.
US Nov nonfarm payrolls rose by +64,000, stronger than expectations of +50,000. Oct nonfarm payrolls fell by -105,000, weaker than expectations of -25,000. The Nov unemployment rate rose +0.1 to a 4-year high of 4.6%.
US Nov average hourly earnings rose +0.1% m/m and +3.5% y/y, weaker than expectations of +0.3% m/m and +3.6% y/y, with the +3.5% y/y gain the smallest year-on-year increase in 4.5 years.
US Oct retail sales were unchanged m/m, weaker than expectations of +0.1% m/m. However, Oct retail sales ex-autos rose +0.4% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.2% m/m.
The US Dec S&P manufacturing PMI fell -0.4 to a 5-month low of 51.8, weaker than expectations of 52.1.
This week's market focus will be on US economic news. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to fall -11,000 to 225,000. Also, Nov CPI is expected to be +3.1% y/y, and Nov core CPI is expected to be +3.0% y/y. On Friday, Nov existing home sales are expected to be up +1.2% m/m to 4.15 million. Also, the University of Michigan Dec consumer sentiment index is expected to be revised upward by +0.2 to 53.5 from the previously reported 53.3.
The markets are discounting a 24% chance that the FOMC will cut the fed funds target range by 25 bp at the next FOMC meeting on January 27-28.
Overseas stock markets are lower today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is down -0.68%. China’s Shanghai Composite fell to a 2-month low and closed down -1.11%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 slid to a 2-week low and closed down -1.56%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) today are up by +3 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down -0.8 bp to 4.165%. T-notes are moving higher today after the US Nov employment rate rose to a 4-year high and Nov average hourly earnings posted their smallest year-on-year increase in 4.5 years. Also, Oct retail sales rose less than expected, and the Dec S&P manufacturing PMI fell to a 5-month low, dovish factors for Fed policy. In addition, falling inflation expectations are supportive of T-notes as the 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 1.5-week low today at 2.240%.
Gains in T-notes are limited after a report on US Oct retail sales ex-autos rose more than expected, a hawkish factor for Fed policy.
The steepening yield curve is bearish for T-note prices. Steepening trades occur when bond investors buy short-term government debt and sell long -term debt. The yield curve has steepened since last Wednesday’s FOMC meeting, when the Fed said it would begin purchasing up to $40 billion of short-term T-bills a month to boost liquidity in the financial system. Longer-term Treasury securities are also under pressure from concerns about inflation and the Fed’s independence.
European government bond yields are mixed today. The 10-year German bund yield is down -0.2 bp to 2.851%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 3-week high of 4.561% and is up +2.6 bp to 4.522%.
The Eurozone Dec S&P manufacturing PMI unexpectedly fell -0.4 to 49.2, weaker than expectations of an increase to 49.9 and the steepest pace of contraction in 8 months.
The German Dec ZEW survey expectations of economic growth unexpectedly rose by +7.3 to a 5-month high of 45.8, stronger than expectations of a decline to 38.4.
The UK Dec S&P manufacturing PMI rose +1.0 to 51.2, stronger than expectations of 50.3 and the fastest pace of expansion in 15 months.
Swaps are discounting a 0% chance for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at its next policy meeting on Thursday.
US Stock Movers
Energy producers and energy service providers are falling today, weighing on the broader market, as WTI crude oil is down more than 3% at a 4.75-year low. APA Corp (APA) is down more than -5% to lead losers in the S&P 500. Also, Diamondback Energy (FANG) is down more than -4% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100. In addition, Halliburton (HAL) is down more than -4%, and Occidental Petroleum (OXY), Marathon Petroleum (MPC), ConocoPhillips (COP), Baker Hughes (BKR), Phillips 66 (PSX), and Devon Energy (DVN) are down more than -3%. Finally, Exxon Mobil (XOM) and Valero Energy (VLO) are down more than -2%.
Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks are climbing today as Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) rose more than +1%. Strategy (MSTR) is up more than +4% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100. Also, Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY), MARA Holdings (MARA), and Coinbase Global (COIN) are up more than +1%.
Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp (BAH) is down more than -7% after it announced that CFO Calderone will resign from the company effective February 1.
Pfizer Inc (PFE) is down more than -4% after forecasting 2026 revenue of $59.5 billion to $62.5 billion, the midpoint below the consensus of $61.63 billion.
Humana (HUM) is down more than -2% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $17.000, below the consensus of $17.06.
Illinois Tool Works (ITW) is down more than -2% after Goldman Sachs downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $230.
Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM) is down more than -2% after Morgan Stanley downgraded the stock to underweight from equal weight with a price target of $50.
Cognex (CGNX) is up more than +5% after Goldman Sachs double-upgraded the stock to buy from sell with a price target of $50.
Comcast (CMCSA) is up more than +3% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after CNBC commented about trading activity in the swaps market that may suggest involvement by activist investors.
Okta Inc (OKTA) is up more than +2% after Jeffries upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $125.
Southwest Airlines (LUV) is up more than +2% after Barclays upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $56.
Estee Lauder (EL) is up more than +2% after Bank of America named the stock as its top pick for beauty for 2026, with a price target of $130.
Ford Motor (F) is up more than +1% after it said it is cancelling a planned electric F-series truck and shifting production toward gas and hybrid vehicles.
Earnings Reports(12/16/2025)
CSP Inc (CSPI), Golden Matrix Group Inc (GMGI), Immersion Corp (IMMR), Lennar Corp (LEN), RCI Hospitality Holdings Inc (RICK), Worthington Enterprises Inc (WOR).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Slide on Sluggish US Economic News

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down by -0.14%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is down by -0.13%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up by +0.03%. December E-mini S&P futures (ESZ25) are down -0.12%, and December E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQZ25) are up +0.04%.
Stock indexes are mixed today, with the S&P 500 falling to a 2.5-week low. The broader market is under pressure on US economic concerns after today’s financial reports showed the Nov unemployment rate rose to a 4-year high and Oct retail sales stagnated. Also, a slump in energy producers today is weighing on the broader market after WTI crude oil fell more than 2% to a 7-month low.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
Stocks found some support from today’s Fed-friendly US economic reports on Nov payrolls and Oct retail sales, which bolster expectations that the Fed will continue to ease monetary policy. Also, wage pressures are easing as Nov hourly earnings posted their smallest year-on-year increase in 4.5 years.
US Nov nonfarm payrolls rose by +64,000, stronger than expectations of +50,000. Oct nonfarm payrolls fell by -105,000, weaker than expectations of -25,000. The Nov unemployment rate rose +0.1 to a 4-year high of 4.6%.
US Nov average hourly earnings rose +0.1% m/m and +3.5% y/y, weaker than expectations of +0.3% m/m and +3.6% y/y, with the +3.5% y/y gain the smallest year-on-year increase in 4.5 years.
US Oct retail sales were unchanged m/m, weaker than expectations of +0.1% m/m. However, Oct retail sales ex-autos rose +0.4% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.2% m/m.
This week's market focus will be on US economic news. On Thursday, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to fall -11,000 to 225,000. Also, Nov CPI is expected to be +3.1% y/y, and Nov core CPI is expected to be +3.0% y/y. On Friday, Nov existing home sales are expected to be up +1.2% m/m to 4.15 million. Also, the University of Michigan Dec consumer sentiment index is expected to be revised upward by +0.2 to 53.5 from the previously reported 53.3.
The markets are discounting a 24% chance that the FOMC will cut the fed funds target range by 25 bp at the next FOMC meeting on January 27-28.
Overseas stock markets are lower today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is down -0.38%. China’s Shanghai Composite fell to a 2-month low and closed down -1.11%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 slid to a 2-week low and closed down -1.56%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) today are down by -3 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +1.6 bp to 4.188%. T-notes gave up an early advance today and turned lower after a report on US Oct retail sales ex-autos rose more than expected, a hawkish factor for Fed policy. T-notes initially moved higher today after the Nov employment rate rose to a 4-year high and Nov average hourly earnings posted their smallest year-on-year increase in 4.5 years. Falling inflation expectations are also supportive of T-notes as the 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 1.5-week low today at 2.240%.
The steepening yield curve is bearish for T-note prices. Steepening trades occur when bond investors buy short-term government debt and sell long -term debt. The yield curve has steepened since last Wednesday’s FOMC meeting, when the Fed said it would begin purchasing up to $40 billion of short-term T-bills a month to boost liquidity in the financial system. Longer-term Treasury securities are also under pressure from concerns about inflation and the Fed’s independence.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield is up +1.5 bp to 2.868%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 3-week high of 4.561% and is up +5.9 bp to 4.554%.
The Eurozone Dec S&P manufacturing PMI unexpectedly fell -0.4 to 49.2, weaker than expectations of an increase to 49.9 and the steepest pace of contraction in 8 months.
The German Dec ZEW survey expectations of economic growth unexpectedly rose +7.3 to a 5-month high of 45.8, stronger than expectations of a decline to 38.4.
The UK Dec S&P manufacturing PMI rose +1.0 to 51.2, stronger than expectations of 50.3 and the fastest pace of expansion in 15 months.
Swaps are discounting a 0% chance for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at its next policy meeting on Thursday.
US Stock Movers
Energy producers and energy service providers are falling today, weighing on the broader market, as WTI crude oil is down more than 2% at a 7-month low. Diamondback Energy (FANG), APA Corp (APA), and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) are down more than -2%. Also, Devon Energy (DVN), ConocoPhillips (COP), Baker Hughes (BKR), Phillips 66 (PSX), Halliburton (HAL), Exxon Mobil (XOM), and Valero Energy (VLO) are down more than -1%.
Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp (BAH) is down more than -6% after it announced that CFO Calderone will resign from the company effective February 1.
Humana (HUM) is down more than -2% after forecasting full-year adjusted EPS of $17.000, below the consensus of $17.06.
Pfizer Inc (PFE) is down more than -2% after forecasting 2026 revenue of $59.5 billion to $62.5 billion, the midpoint below the consensus of $61.63 billion.
Illinois Tool Works (ITW) is down more than -1% after Goldman Sachs downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $230.
Gitlab (GTLB) is down more than -1% after KeyBanc Capital Markets downgraded the stock to sector weight from overweight.
Cognex (CGNX) is up more than +4% after Goldman Sachs double-upgraded the stock to buy from sell with a price target of $50.
Okta Inc (OKTA) is up more than +3% after Jeffries upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $125.
Southwest Airlines (LUV) is up more than +2% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after Barclays upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $56.
Estee Lauder (EL) is up more than +1% after Bank of America named the stock as its top pick for beauty for 2026 with a price target of $130.
Ford Motor (F) is up more than +1% after it said it is cancelling a planned electric F-series truck and shifting production toward gas and hybrid vehicles.
Earnings Reports(12/16/2025)
CSP Inc (CSPI), Golden Matrix Group Inc (GMGI), Immersion Corp (IMMR), Lennar Corp (LEN), RCI Hospitality Holdings Inc (RICK), Worthington Enterprises Inc (WOR).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Slightly Lower on US Economic Concerns

In early trading on Tuesday, shares of Southwest Airlines topped the list of the day's best performing components of the S&P 500 index, trading up 3.4%. Year to date, Southwest Airlines registers a 28.3% gain.
And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Humana, trading down 3.0%. Humana is showing a gain of 5.0% looking at the year to date performance.
Two other components making moves today are Biogen, trading down 2.9%, and Dell Technologies, trading up 2.5% on the day.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.