Nutrien Ltd. provides crop inputs and services. The company operates through Retail, Potash, Nitrogen, and Phosphate segments. The Retail segment distributes crop nutrients, crop protection products, seeds, and merchandise products. The Potash segment provides granular and standard potash products. The Nitrogen segment offers ammonia, urea, urea ammonium nitrate, industrial grade ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate. The Phosphate segment provides solid fertilizer, liquid fertilizer, and industrial and feed products. In addition, it provides services directly to growers through a network of farm centers in North America, South America, and Australia. The company was incorporated in 2017 and is headquartered in Saskatoon, Canada.

Компания Nutrien Ltd. демонстрирует смешанную фундаментальную картину. С одной стороны, мультипликатор P/E на уровне 32.85 значительно превышает медиану отрасли, что может указывать на переоцененность акций. В то же время, EPS и EPS-прогноз выше медианных значений, что позитивно сказывается на оценке. Тем не менее, показатели рентабельности, такие как ROE и ROA, значительно ниже медианных значений, что говорит о слабой эффективности использования капитала. Долговая нагрузка остается на уровне медианы, что в целом не вызывает беспокойств, но текущие коэффициенты (current_ratio и quick_ratio) ниже медианы, что может вызвать вопросы по ликвидности. Дивиденды также отсутствуют, что является негативным фактором для инвесторов, ориентированных на доходность. В целом, компания демонстрирует сильные результаты по выручке, однако низкие показатели маржи и прибыли указывают на высокие операционные расходы. Таким образом, общий фундаментальный анализ указывает на необходимость осторожного подхода к инвестициям в акции Nutrien Ltd.

Nutrien Ltd.

For Immediate Release
Chicago, IL – April 21, 2026 – Today, Zacks Equity Research discussesNutrien Ltd. NTR, CF Industries Holdings, Inc. CF and Yara International ASA YARIY.
Industry: Fertilizer
Link: https://www.zacks.com/commentary/2902895/3-top-fertilizer-stocks-to-watch-from-a-promising-industry
The Zacks Fertilizers industry is poised to gain from solid demand fundamentals for key crop nutrients like phosphate and potash. Strong agricultural market conditions and favorable farm economics are driving fertilizer demand worldwide.
Industry participants, such as Nutrien Ltd., CF Industries Holdings, Inc. and Yara International ASA, are set to benefit from higher demand for fertilizers in major markets. Higher fertilizer prices also augur well for these industry playe
About the Industry
The Zacks Fertilizers industry comprises producers, distributors and marketers of crop nutrients for the global agriculture industry. Companies in this space offer nutrients such as phosphates (including diammonium phosphate, monoammonium phosphate and phosphoric acid), potash and nitrogen (including urea, ammonia and urea ammonium nitrate) fertilizers.
They also provide other nitrogen products to help farmers maximize crop yield. Crop nutrients are essential to drive agricultural productivity and boost the natural fertility of the soil. Demand for these nutrients is being supported by the need to increase the production of grains to address rising food consumption globally. Moreover, the constant need of growers to nourish their crops, replenish nutrients in the soil following a harvest and boost yields to feed a growing global population drives the consumption of fertilizers.
What's Shaping the Future of the Fertilizers Industry?
Favorable Demand for Crop Nutrients: The companies in the fertilizers space are well-placed to benefit from healthy global demand for major crop nutrients. Fundamentals in the broader agriculture space remain positive, given the sustained rise in food demand globally. Farmer economics also remain attractive in most global growing regions due to strong crop demand. Favorable farmer economics, improved affordability and low inventory levels are expected to drive potash demand globally.
The phosphate market is also supported by low producer and channel inventories. Demand for nitrogen fertilizer also remains healthy in major markets, driven by requirements in North America, India and Brazil. Expectations of high levels of planted corn and soybean acres globally also suggest a pickup in fertilizer demand in 2026.
Higher Fertilizer Prices Augur Well: Prices of phosphate, potash and nitrogen remained depressed in 2023 and 2024 amid oversupply in the market and weak demand, weighing on the profitability of fertilizer companies. On a positive note, strong demand and supply tightness led to an uptick in fertilizer prices in 2025, with phosphate prices seeing a notable increase.
Prices were driven by solid agricultural demand in major markets, China’s export restrictions, U.S. tariffs and higher costs of inputs. The upward momentum in fertilizer prices continues this year. Higher prices are expected to drive top-line and margin expansion for companies in this space over the near term.
Elevated Input Costs a Concern: Increased prices of major raw materials pose a headwind to fertilizer companies. Prices of both sulfur and ammonia — key inputs for the production of phosphate — remain elevated. Supply disruptions from Russia amid the war with Ukraine contributed to the rise in prices of both sulfur and ammonia. Plant shutdowns and maintenance also led to a tight supply of these raw materials, which, coupled with strong demand, pushed up their prices.
Rising natural gas prices, a key feedstock for nitrogen fertilizer, are also a concern. Higher raw material costs have led to an increase in production costs. As such, fertilizer makers are likely to face short-term margin pressure associated with higher input costs.
Zacks Industry Rank Reflects Upbeat Prospects
The Zacks Fertilizers industry is part of the broader Zacks Basic Materials sector. It carries a Zacks Industry Rank #41, which places it in the top 17% of more than 250 Zacks industries.
The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates a bright near-term. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Before we present a few stocks that you may want to consider for your portfolio, let’s take a look at the industry’s recent stock market performance and valuation picture.
Industry Underperforms S&P 500
The Zacks Fertilizers industry has underperformed the Zacks S&P 500 composite and the broader Zacks Basic Materials sector over the past year.
The industry has gained 22% over this period against the S&P 500’s rise of 42.8% and the broader sector’s increase of 53.4%.
Industry's Current Valuation
On the basis of the trailing 12-month enterprise value-to EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) ratio, which is a commonly used multiple for valuing fertilizer stocks, the industry is currently trading at 8.76X compared with the S&P 500’s 18.64X and the sector’s 15.43X.
In the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 18.05X and as low as 4.55X, with a median of 9.76X.
3 Fertilizer Stocks to Keep a Close Eye On
Yara International: Norway-based Yara International is a leading global producer and supplier of mineral fertilizers. It has industry-leading experience in ammonia development, production, operations and distribution. A favorable nitrogen demand environment bodes well for YARIY. Cost reductions and actions to strengthen the balance sheet are expected to boost the company’s profitability and cash flows. YARIY also remains focused on rewarding its shareholders by leveraging strong cash flows.
Yara International currently has a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). It has an expected earnings growth rate of 33.5% for 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings has been revised 25% upward over the past 60 days. YARIY has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of roughly 74.5%, on average. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
CF Industries: Illinois-based CF Industries is a leading global manufacturer of nitrogen and hydrogen products for fertilizer, clean energy, emissions reduction and other industrial applications. It is gaining from higher nitrogen fertilizer demand in the major markets such as North America, Brazil and India. CF is seeing higher nitrogen demand for industrial uses in North America. Higher nitrogen prices are also contributing to a boost in CF Industries’ revenues. CF remains committed to boosting shareholders’ value by leveraging strong cash flows. The company is also taking action to de-leverage its balance sheet.
CF Industries, currently with a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), has an expected earnings growth rate of 6.2% for 2026. The consensus estimate for 2026 earnings has been revised 36.5% upward over the past 60 days. CF’s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the last four quarters at an average of 13.2%.
Nutrien: Canada-based Nutrien is a leading provider of crop inputs and services. The company is benefiting from higher demand for crop nutrients, backed by supportive global agriculture markets. It is seeing strong demand in its major markets, particularly North America. NTR is also gaining from acquisitions, cost efficiency and increased adoption of its digital platform. The company also continues to expand its footprint in Brazil through acquisitions. Cost and operational efficiency initiatives are also expected to aid its performance. The company has announced several strategic actions to reduce its controllable costs and boost free cash flow.
Nutrien has expected earnings growth of 9% for 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings has been revised 4.4% upward over the past 60 days. Nutrien currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
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Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Inherent in any investment is the potential for loss. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold a security. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. It should not be assumed that any investments in securities, companies, sectors or markets identified and described were or will be profitable. All information is current as of the date of herein and is subject to change without notice. Any views or opinions expressed may not reflect those of the firm as a whole. Zacks Investment Research does not engage in investment banking, market making or asset management activities of any securities. These returns are from hypothetical portfolios consisting of stocks with Zacks Rank = 1 that were rebalanced monthly with zero transaction costs. These are not the returns of actual portfolios of stocks. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index. Visit https://www.zacks.com/performance for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release.
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Zacks Industry Outlook Highlights Nutrien, CF Industries and Yara

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Thursday closed up +0.26%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +0.24%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up +0.49%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) rose +0.23%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) rose +0.35%.
Stock indexes recovered from early losses and rallied on Thursday, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 posting new record highs. The rebound in chipmakers on Thursday lifted the broader market after Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, the primary supplier of chips to Apple and Nvidia, raised its 2026 revenue forecast, reflecting strong AI demand. Gains in stocks were limited after crude oil prices jumped by more than +3% on Bloomberg's report that some Gulf Arab and European leaders believe a US-Iran peace deal will take about 6 months, dashing hopes of a speedy conclusion to the Iran conflict.
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Hopes for peace in the Middle East are supporting stocks. President Trump on Thursday said the prospects for a peace deal with Iran are "looking very good," as the two sides are in discussions to extend a ceasefire that expires next week. President Trump also announced that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, which eases tensions in the Middle East and may also help to end the US-Iran war.
Thursday’s US economic news was mixed as weekly jobless claims fell more than expected and the Philadelphia Fed business outlook survey unexpectedly rose to a 15-month high. However, US manufacturing production unexpectedly declined.
US weekly initial unemployment claims fell -11,000 to 207,000, showing a stronger labor market than expectations of 213,000.
The US Apr Philadelphia Fed business outlook survey unexpectedly rose +8.6 to a 15-month high of 26.7, stronger than expectations of a decline to 10.0.
US Mar manufacturing production unexpectedly fell -0.1% m/m, weaker than expectations of a +0.1% m/m increase.
New York Fed President John Williams signaled he favors steady Fed policy, saying the Fed remains well positioned to address the threat of a protracted supply shock from the war in the Middle East, which could raise inflation and dampen growth in the US. He added that high uncertainty should prevent the Fed from providing strong guidance on the future path of interest rates.
WTI crude oil prices (CLK26) rose more than +3% on Thursday as the US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz entered its fourth day. On Monday, the US vowed to blockade all vessels passing through the strait that call at Iranian ports or are headed there. The blockade could exacerbate global oil and fuel shortages, as about a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas transits through the strait. Iran has been able to export crude oil during the war, exporting about 1.7 million bpd in March.
Earnings season began this week, with Q1 S&P 500 earnings projected to climb +12% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Stripping out the technology sector, Q1 earnings are projected to increase around +3%, the weakest in two years.
The markets are discounting a 1% chance for a +25 bp FOMC rate hike at the April 28-29 policy meeting.
Overseas stock markets on Thursday settled mixed. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed down -0.12%. China's Shanghai Composite climbed to a 4-week high and closed up +0.70%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 rallied to a record high and closed up +2.38%.
Interest Rates
June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) on Thursday closed down -4.5 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield rose +2.4 bp to 4.307%. T-notes gave up an early advance on Thursday and moved lower after WTI crude oil prices jumped more than +3%, boosting inflation expectations. Also, Thursday’s rally in the S&P 500 to a new record high reduced safe-haven demand for T-notes. In addition, hawkish comments from New York Fed President John Williams weighed on T-note prices when he signaled that he favors a steady Fed policy. Thursday’s US economic news was mixed for T-note after US weekly jobless claims fell more than expected and the Apr Philadelphia Fed business outlook survey unexpectedly rose to a 15-month high, but Mar industrial production unexpectedly declined.
European government bond yields were mixed on Thursday. The 10-year German bund yield fell -1.1 bp to 3.032%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose +3.3 bp to 4.847%.
Eurozone Mar CPI was revised upward by +0.1 to 2.6% y/y from the previously reported 2.5% y/y, the highest in 20 months.
UK Feb manufacturing production unexpectedly fell -0.1% m/m, weaker than expectations of a +0.3% m/m increase.
Swaps are discounting a 13% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on April 30.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers moved higher on Thursday after Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, the primary supplier of chips to Apple and Nvidia, raised its 2026 revenue forecast, a reflection of strong AI demand. ON Semiconductor (ON) closed up more than +9%, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) closed up more than +7% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100. Also, Intel (INTC) closed up more than +5%, and Microchip Technology (MCHP) and Texas Instruments (TXN) closed up more than +2%. In addition, NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), ARM Holdings Plc (ARM), Analog Devices (ADI), and Qualcomm (QCOM) closed up more than +1%.
Software stocks rallied on Thursday for a second day. Oracle (ORCL) closed up more than +5%, and Atlassian (TEAM) closed up more than +4%. Also, ServiceNow (NOW) and Salesforce (CRM) closed up more than +2%, and Datadog (DDOG), Adobe Systems (ADBE), and Autodesk (ADSK) closed up more than +1%.
Cybersecurity stocks rose on Thursday. Okta (OKTA) closed up more than +6% after Raymond James upgraded the stock to outperform from market perform with a price target of $85. Also, Cloudflare (NET) and Fortinet (FTNT) closed up more than +3%, and Zscaler (ZS) closed up more than +2%. In addition, CrowdStrike Holdings (CRWD) and Palo Alto Networks (PANW) closed up more than +1%.
Fertilizer stocks settled higher on Thursday on concerns that the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz will disrupt global supplies of fertilizer. Mosaic (MOS) closed up more than +4%, and CF Industries (CF) closed up more than +3%. Also, Dow (DOW) closed up more than +2%, and Nutrien Ltd (NTR) closed up more than +1%.
Airline stocks and cruise line operators retreated on Thursday as WTI crude oil rose more than +3%, which boosts fuel costs and weighs on company profits. Carnival (CCL), Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), and Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL) closed down more than -5%. Also,
Alaska Air Group (ALK) closed down more than -3%, and Delta Air Lines (DAL) and Southwest Airlines (LUV) closed down more than -2%.
Hims & Hers Health (HIMS) closed up more than +10%, adding to Wednesday’s 13% surge, after US Health Secretary Kennedy said the FDA is seeking to remove 12 peptides from Category 2 restrictions.
Voyager Technologies (VOYG) closed up more than +8% after signing an order with NASA for the seventh private astronaut mission to the International Space Station.
JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) closed up more than +6% after reporting Q1 revenue of $3.06 billion, above the consensus of $2.96 billion.
PPG Industries (PPG) closed up more than +3% after reporting Q1 preliminary adjusted EPS from continuing operations of $1.83, better than the consensus of $1.71.
Dick’s Sporting Goods (DKS) is up more than +2% after BTIG initiated coverage on the stock with a buy recommendation and a price target of $300.
QuidelOrtho Corp. (QDEL) closed down more than -27% after saying it expects negative free cash flow of $65 million to $70 million in Q1, as the Middle East conflict has delayed certain EMEA orders, negatively impacting quarterly revenue.
Charles Schwab (SCHW) closed down more than -7% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q1 net revenue of $6.48 billion, below the consensus of $6.51 billion.
Abbott Laboratories (ABT) closed down -6% after cutting its full-year profit forecast to $5.38 to $5.58 from a previous forecast of $5.55 to $5.80, below the consensus of $5.61.
Fabrinet (FN) closed down more than -2% after JPMorgan Chase downgraded the stock to neutral from overweight.
Flutter Entertainment (FLUT) closed down more than -2% after being double-downgraded by Citigroup to sell from buy with a price target of $90.
Corning (GLW) closed down more than -1% after JPMorgan Chase downgraded the stock to neutral from overweight.
Earnings Reports(4/17/2026)
Ally Financial Inc (ALLY), Fifth Third Bancorp (FITB), Regions Financial Corp (RF), State Street Corp (STT), Truist Financial Corp (TFC).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Settle Higher on Tech Earnings and Ceasefire Optimism

CF Industries Holdings, Inc. CF generated solid cash flows in the fourth quarter of 2025, thanks to strong operational performance, strategic execution and supportive nitrogen industry fundamentals. Its net cash provided by operating activities was $539 million in the quarter, up roughly 28% year over year. For full-year 2025, net cash from operating activities was $2.75 billion, while free cash flow was $1.79 billion, up roughly 21% and 24% year over year, respectively.
CF’s substantial cash flows and strong balance sheet enable it to finance its strategic growth investment, pay down debt and drive shareholder value. The company’s cash and cash equivalents were nearly $2 billion at the end of 2025. It returned $1.7 billion to its shareholders in 2025. CF is efficiently converting adjusted EBITDA to free cash flow. Its full-year 2025 free cash flow to adjusted EBITDA conversion rate was 62%, outpacing sector averages.
The company expects to continue generating significant free cash flow, leveraging its high-margin business, strategic execution and favorable global nitrogen industry dynamics, allowing it to invest in growth opportunities and enhance returns to its shareholders.
Among its peers, The Mosaic Company MOS generated an operating cash flow of $825 million in 2025, down roughly 36% year over year. Mosaic’s operating cash flow was hurt by inventory builds in both finished products and raw materials. In addition to significantly reducing cash flow, the increase in working capital also led to an $829 million rise in net debt. Mosaic sees cash flow remaining constrained by lower EBITDA in the near term.
Nutrien Ltd. NTR generated solid cash flows in the fourth quarter, aided by favorable fertilizer market fundamentals. Cash provided in operating activities was $2.98 billion in the fourth quarter. Nutrien generated an operating cash flow of $4 billion for full-year 2025. NTR’s actions to drive volumes, strong retail earnings and measures to optimize portfolio contributed to strong cash flow generation in 2025.
CF’s Price Performance, Valuation & Estimates
CF Industries has rallied 91.3% in the past year compared with the Zacks Fertilizers industry’s rise of 48.9%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, CF is currently trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 16.08, a 1.6% premium relative to the industry average of 15.83X. It carries a Value Score of B.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CF’s 2026 and 2027 earnings implies a year-over-year decline of 6.7% and 25.7%, respectively. The EPS estimates for 2026 and 2027 have been trending higher over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
CF stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
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CF's Cash Flow Strength: Can It Fuel More Growth and Returns?

CF Industries Holdings, Inc.’s CF shares have rallied 59.4% over the past three months, outperforming the Zacks Fertilizers industry’s growth of 23.9% and the S&P 500’s decline of 5.7%. The upside has been driven by its forecast-topping earnings performance, buoyed by healthy nitrogen fertilizer demand in major markets and higher nitrogen prices.
CF’s peers, Nutrien Ltd. NTR and The Mosaic Company MOS, have gained 20% and 6.7%, respectively, over the same period.
CF’s 3-month Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Technical indicators for CF show bullish momentum. The CF stock has been trading above its 50-day simple moving average (SMA) since Jan. 8, 2026. It is also currently trading above its 200-day SMA, suggesting a long-term uptrend. The 50-day SMA is also reading higher than the 200-day SMA, following a golden crossover on Feb. 26, 2026, indicating a bullish trend.
CF Stock Trades Above 50-Day SMA
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Let’s take a look at CF’s fundamentals to better analyze how to play the stock.
Healthy Nitrogen Demand, Higher Prices Aid CF Stock
CF Industries is capitalizing on the growing global demand for nitrogen fertilizers, driven by strong agricultural activity. After pandemic-related challenges, industrial demand for nitrogen has recovered.
Global nitrogen requirement is expected to remain strong in the near future due to recovering industrial demand and farmer economics. High levels of corn-planted acres in the United States should drive the demand for nitrogen. Demand in North America is expected to be fueled by favorable farm economics. CF Industries is also seeing strong demand for urea from Brazil and India. Brazil and India are expected to remain the largest importers of urea globally, driven by higher domestic requirements.
CF, on its fourth-quarter call, said that the global nitrogen outlook remains positive for the near term, supported by strong demand and tight supply. India and Brazil will remain the world’s largest importers of urea, driving robust consumption, while inventories will stay below historical averages.
Higher nitrogen prices have also contributed to a boost in CF Industries’ revenues. In the fourth quarter, net sales rose roughly 23% year over year to roughly $1.87 billion. The average selling prices for most of the company’s core products increased compared to the prior year, driven by supply disruptions and strong global nitrogen demand. Looking ahead, CF should continue to benefit from favorable pricing trends.
CF’s Solid Cash Flow Supports Shareholder Returns
CF Industries continues to focus on enhancing shareholder value by utilizing its strong cash flow. Its net cash provided by operating activities was $539 million in the fourth quarter, up nearly 28.3% year over year. The company’s cash and cash equivalents were nearly $2 billion at the end of the quarter. The company completed a $1 billion senior notes offering during the fourth quarter to boost its financial flexibility and to refinance $750 million in debt due in December 2026.
CF Industries repurchased 4.1 million shares for $340 million in the fourth quarter, and bought back 16.6 million shares for $1.34 billion during 2025. It returned $1.7 billion to its shareholders in 2025. The company completed the $3 billion share repurchase program in October 2025. It started a new $2 billion share repurchase program effective through 2029, with $1.7 billion remaining at the end of 2025.
CF offers a dividend yield of roughly 1.5% at the current stock price. It has a payout ratio of 21%. CF has a five-year annualized dividend growth rate of 13.8%. Backed by sound financial health, the company's dividend is perceived as safe and reliable.
Higher Gas Costs Weigh on CF’s Margins
CF faces headwinds from higher natural gas prices, a key feedstock for nitrogen fertilizer. It saw a notable rise in natural gas costs during 2025. The average cost of natural gas increased to $3.20 per MMBtu (million metric British thermal unit) in the fourth quarter from $2.43 per MMBtu a year ago. The same for 2025 increased to $3.31 per MMBtu from $2.40 per MMBtu in the year-ago period, leading to a higher cost of sales. Natural gas prices shot up in Europe and Asia due to constrained supply availability. Higher gas costs are expected to weigh on CF’s margins.
Positive Analyst Sentiment for CF Stock
Earnings estimates for CF Industries have been rising over the past 60 days, reflecting analysts’ optimism. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 has been revised upward over the same time frame.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
A Look At CF Stock’s Valuation
CF is currently trading at a forward price/earnings of 15.65X, a modest 1.4% discount relative to the industry average of 15.87X. It is trading at a premium to Nutrien and Mosaic. CF and Nutrien currently have a Value Score of B, while Mosaic carries a Value Score of A.
CF’s P/E F12M Vs. Industry, NTR & MOS
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Final Thoughts: Hold CF Stock for Now
CF has rallied on strong nitrogen demand and higher pricing, driving earnings beats and upward estimate revisions. Robust cash flow supports aggressive buybacks and a healthy dividend, reinforcing shareholder returns. Technical momentum also remains firmly bullish. Favorable farm economics, strong import demand from Brazil and India and disciplined capital allocation underpin earnings visibility. However, higher natural gas costs pose margin pressure, and fertilizer markets remain inherently cyclical. Retaining this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock will be prudent for investors who already own it.
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CF Stock Rallies 59% in 3 Months: What Should Investors Do Now?

CF Industries (CF) shares rallied 13.2% in the last trading session to close at $136. This move can be attributable to notable volume with a higher number of shares being traded than in a typical session. This compares to the stock's 23.9% gain over the past four weeks.
CF’s rally reflects the surge in nitrogen fertilizer prices amid supply disruptions stemming from the war in the Middle East. Urea prices have shot up amid supply concerns following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical supply corridor, by Iran.
This fertilizer maker is expected to post quarterly earnings of $2.12 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +14.6%. Revenues are expected to be $1.74 billion, up 4.7% from the year-ago quarter.
Earnings and revenue growth expectations certainly give a good sense of the potential strength in a stock, but empirical research shows that trends in earnings estimate revisions are strongly correlated with near-term stock price movements.
For CF, the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 9.1% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. And a positive trend in earnings estimate revision usually translates into price appreciation. So, make sure to keep an eye on CF going forward to see if this recent jump can turn into more strength down the road.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>>
CF is a member of the Zacks Fertilizers industry. One other stock in the same industry, Nutrien (NTR), finished the last trading session 5.8% higher at $83.94. NTR has returned 8.5% over the past month.
For Nutrien, the consensus EPS estimate for the upcoming report has remained unchanged over the past month at $0.49. This represents a change of +345.5% from what the company reported a year ago. Nutrien currently has a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
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CF (CF) Surges 13.2%: Is This an Indication of Further Gains?

Nutrien (NTR) shares ended the last trading session 5.8% higher at $83.94. The jump came on an impressive volume with a higher-than-average number of shares changing hands in the session. This compares to the stock's 8.5% gain over the past four weeks.
NTR’s shares rallied after Jefferies reportedly upgraded it to “Buy” from “Hold” and raised its price target to $96 from $74 amid a spike in fertilizer prices driven by the war in the Middle East.
This producer of potash and other fertilizers is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.49 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +345.5%. Revenues are expected to be $5.32 billion, up 4.4% from the year-ago quarter.
While earnings and revenue growth expectations are important in evaluating the potential strength in a stock, empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.
For Nutrien, the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days. And a stock's price usually doesn't keep moving higher in the absence of any trend in earnings estimate revisions. So, make sure to keep an eye on NTR going forward to see if this recent jump can turn into more strength down the road.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>>
Nutrien is a member of the Zacks Fertilizers industry. One other stock in the same industry, CF Industries (CF), finished the last trading session 13.2% higher at $136. CF has returned 23.9% over the past month.
CF's consensus EPS estimate for the upcoming report has changed +9.1% over the past month to $2.12. Compared to the company's year-ago EPS, this represents a change of +14.6%. CF currently boasts a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
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Nutrien (NTR) Soars 5.8%: Is Further Upside Left in the Stock?

CF Industries Holdings, Inc. CF gains on healthy nitrogen fertilizer demand in major markets and higher nitrogen prices amid headwinds from higher natural gas costs.
CF Industries, which is among the prominent players in the fertilizer space along with Nutrien Ltd. NTR, The Mosaic Company MOS and Intrepid Potash, Inc. IPI, is capitalizing on the growing global demand for nitrogen fertilizers, driven by strong agricultural activity. After pandemic-related challenges, industrial demand for nitrogen has recovered.
Global nitrogen requirement is expected to remain strong in the near future due to recovering industrial demand and farmer economics. High levels of corn-planted acres in the United States should drive the demand for nitrogen. Demand in North America is expected to be fueled by favorable farm economics. CF Industries is also seeing strong demand for urea from Brazil and India. Brazil and India are expected to remain the largest importers of urea globally, driven by higher domestic demand.
Higher nitrogen prices have also contributed to a boost in CF Industries’ revenues. In the fourth quarter, net sales rose roughly 23% year over year to roughly $1.87 billion. The average selling prices for most of the company’s core products increased compared to the prior year, driven by supply disruptions and strong global nitrogen demand. Looking ahead, CF should continue to benefit from favorable pricing trends.
CF Industries continues to focus on enhancing shareholder value by utilizing its strong cash flow. Net cash provided by operating activities was $539 million in the fourth quarter, up nearly 28.3% year over year. CF Industries repurchased 4.1 million shares for $340 million in the fourth quarter, and also bought back 16.6 million shares for $1.34 billion during 2025. It returned $1.7 billion to its shareholders in 2025. The company completed the $3 billion share repurchase program in October 2025. It started a new $2 billion share repurchase program effective through 2029, with $1.7 billion remaining at the end of 2025.
The company, however, faces headwinds from higher natural gas prices, a key feedstock for nitrogen fertilizer. It saw a notable rise in natural gas costs during 2025. The average cost of natural gas increased to $3.20 per MMBtu (million metric British thermal unit) in the fourth quarter from $2.43 per MMBtu a year ago. The same for 2025 increased to $3.31 per MMBtu from $2.40 per MMBtu in the year-ago period, leading to a higher cost of sales. Natural gas prices shot up in Europe and Asia due to constrained supply availability. Higher gas costs are expected to weigh on CF’s margins.
CF, in its fourth-quarter call, said that the global nitrogen outlook remains positive in the near term, supported by strong demand and tight supply. India and Brazil will remain the world’s largest importers of urea, driving robust consumption, while inventories remain below historical averages.
Another prominent fertilizer maker, Nutrien, expects potash sales volumes to be 14.1–14.8 million tons in 2026, in line with the company’s global shipment estimates. Nitrogen sales volumes are forecast at 9.2–9.7 million tons, factoring in no additional production from the Trinidad and New Madrid facility. Phosphate sales volumes are expected to be 2.4–2.6 million tons, supported by operational improvement actions.
Mosaic expects potash sales volumes for the first quarter of 2026 to be between 2 million tons and 2.2 million tons. MOS forecasts phosphate sales volumes to be 1.7-1.9 million tons for the first quarter.
Intrepid Potash saw a 15% increase in potash sales volumes to 62,000 tons in the third quarter. The solid increase in Intrepid Potash’s sales volumes was driven by a rise in production. IPI expects solid fertilizer demand driven by an improvement in the agriculture market and strong potash market fundamentals. IPI is slated to report fourth-quarter results on March 4.
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CF Industries Benefits From Strong Nitrogen Demand and Higher Prices

(0:20) - Finding The New FANG stocks
(6:30) - Tracey’s Top Stock Picks To Keep On Your Watchlist
(24:10) - Episode Roundup: UNP, CHRW, NTR, LEA, XOM
Welcome to Episode #476 of the Zacks Market Edge Podcast.
Every week, host and Zacks stock strategist, Tracey Ryniec, will be joined by guests to discuss the hottest investing topics in stocks, bonds, and ETFs and how it impacts your life.
There’s a new sheriff on Wall Street and it isn’t technology.
HALO investing has burst onto the scene. No, those letters are not company names. It means “Hard Assets, Low Obsolescence.”
H-A-L-O.
What is HALO Investing?
It’s an investment strategy used to avoid investing in companies that might see AI disruption. Investors want to buy companies that make or own hard assets and where AI cannot replace it.
The “hard assets” may be land, or a railroad. It may be a gold mine or an oil rig.
Low Obsolescence is a little more difficult to define. But if the AI can’t replace it, then it’s in the “low” category.
For example, Union Pacific was incorporated in 1862 and has survived depressions, recessions, world wars, and pandemics. AI may make a railroad more efficient and employees more productive, but it will never replace the train or the rails.
You could say UNP fits into the category of “low obsolescence.”
5 HALO Stocks for 2026
1. Union Pacific Corp. (UNP)
Union Pacific is an American railroad which was incorporated by Abraham Lincoln in 1862. It’s no longer a big growth stock but earnings are expected to rise 6.9% in 2026 and 7.5% in 2027.
Shares of Union Pacific are up 15% year-to-date and are near 5-year highs. Union Pacific has a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 21.2. A P/E ratio under 15 is considered a value. It also pays a dividend, yielding 2.1%.
Should a railroad like Union Pacific be on your HALO short list?
2. CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (CHRW)
CH Robinson Worldwide is a logistics and trucking company. The freight industry has seen tough times in the last few years, but CH Robinson’s earnings are expected to jump 15.9% in both 2026 and 2027.
Shares of CH Robinson rose 76.2% over the last year to 5-year highs. It pays a dividend, currently yielding 1.4%. CH Robinson isn’t cheap. It has a forward P/E of 30.
Insiders are buying at CH Robinson. Should HALO investors buy too?
3. Nutrien Ltd. (NTR)
Nutrien is a fertilizer manufacturer and agribusiness company headquartered in Canada. Nothing says “hard assets” like a commodity like fertilizers.
Earnings estimates have been revised higher in the last week for 2026. Nutrien is expected to grow earnings by 5.3%. Shares of Nutrien have been on the move higher, however. Over the last year, Nutrien was up 39.4%, to a 3-year high.
Nutrien is a value stock, with a forward P/E of 15. It pays a dividend, currently yielding 3%.
Fertilizers aren’t yet back in favor. Should investors put a fertilizer company like Nutrien on their HALO short list anyway?
4. Lear Corp. (LEA)
Lear Corp. makes seating and electrical systems for the automotive industry. After two tough years, earnings are expected to rebound by 11.2% in 2026 and another 17.8% in 2027.
Shares of Lear are already on the move higher. Lear is up 13.1% year-to-date and has jumped 38.2% over the last year.
Lear is dirt cheap. It has a forward P/E of just 9.3. A P/E ratio under 10 usually indicates a company is a deep value. Lear also pays a dividend, currently yielding 2.3%.
Should auto industry companies like Lear be on your 2026 HALO list?
5. Exxon Mobil Corp. (XOM)
Exxon Mobil Corp. is one of the largest integrated oil companies in the United States. Shares of Exxon Mobil are up 21.7% year-to-date even though the earnings outlook is terrible.
Exxon Mobil’s earnings declined in 2023, 2024, and 2025 and are expected to decline again in 2026 by 3.6%. But analysts aren’t completely gloomy. In 2027, earnings are forecast to jump 21.8%.
Exxon Mobil is trading at new all-time highs even as earnings decline which means it’s not a cheap stock. It’s forward P/E is 22.4 with a PEG ratio of 15.6. A PEG measure P/E divided by growth. A low PEG ratio symbolizes a company may have growth but also be a value. A PEG above 10 is considered very high.
Exxon Mobil is shareholder friendly. It pays a dividend currently yielding 2.7%.
Should HALO investors put an oil company like Exxon Mobil on their 2026 short list?
What Else Should You Know About HALO Investing?
Tune into this week’s podcast to find out.
[In full disclosure, Tracey owns CHRW in Zacks Insider Trader portfolio.]
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Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Union Pacific Corporation (UNP) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Lear Corporation (LEA) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Nutrien Ltd. (NTR) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

HALO Stocks are the Must-Own Stocks of 2026

On Feb. 18, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a landmark executive order invoking the Defense Production Act (DPA) to secure the domestic supply of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides. Citing these materials as essential to "national security and military readiness," the order targets to reduce the United States' heavy reliance on foreign imports—specifically from China—for these critical industrial and agricultural inputs.
This move puts an immediate spotlight on the few domestic players capable of scaling production, most notably Bayer AG BAYRY, which operates the only elemental phosphorus mine in the United States, as well as agricultural giants like Corteva Agriscience CTVA and fertilizer giants like The Mosaic Company MOS. Consequently, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) with heavy weightings in these companies and other industry leaders might see a surge in the days ahead.
Strategic Reshoring Boosting U.S. Industrial Resilience
The motivation behind signing this order is a mix of economic protectionism and defense strategy. Elemental phosphorus is a "choke point" material. It is required for everything from incendiary devices and flares to advanced semiconductors and lithium-ion batteries. Currently, since China dominates global production of this element, the U.S. defense industrial base is vulnerable to supply chain weaponization.
By invoking the DPA, the administration can provide direct loans and purchase guarantees to ensure the "corporate viability" of domestic producers. This creates a massive tailwind for companies like Bayer, which can now expand its Idaho mining operations under a federal safety net. Furthermore, by declaring glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) a national security asset, the government effectively signals a push for regulatory relief and tariff protection against cheaper imports, benefiting domestic innovators like Corteva and FMC Corp. FMC as well as fertilizer leaders like Nutrien Ltd. NTR.
ETFs in the Spotlight
Investors looking to capture the benefits of this "America First" industrial mandate may consider monitoring the following ETFs, which bridge the gap between materials mining and agricultural technology.
iShares MSCI Agriculture Producers ETF VEGI
This fund, with net assets worth $108.7 million, offers exposure to 128 companies that produce fertilizers and agricultural chemicals, farm machinery, and packaged foods and meats. CTVA holds the second position in this fund, with 9.33% weightage, while NTR holds the third position, with 6.14% weightage.
VEGI has surged 19.5% over the past year. The fund charges 39 basis points (bps) as fees. It traded at a volume of 0.05 million shares in the last trading session.
VanEck Agribusiness ETF MOO
This fund, with net assets worth $954.1 million, offers exposure to 57 companies involved in agri-chemicals, animal health and fertilizers, seeds and traits, from farm/irrigation equipment and farm machinery, aquaculture and fishing, livestock, cultivation and plantations (including grain, oil palms, sugar cane, tobacco leaf, grapevines, etc.), and trading of agricultural products. BAYRY holds the second position in this fund, with 7.45% weightage, while CTVA holds the fourth position, with 6.43% weightage. NTR holds the fifth position, with 4.79% weightage.
MOO has soared 24% over the past year. The fund charges 55 bps as fees. It traded at a volume of 0.13 million shares in the last trading session.
First Trust Materials AlphaDEX ETF FXZ
This fund, with net assets worth $332.7 million, offers exposure to 37 stocks that may generate positive alpha relative to traditional passive style indices through the use of the AlphaDEX screening methodology. MOS holds the fifth position in this fund, with 4.79% weightage.
FXZ has soared 30% over the past year. The fund charges 64 bps as fees. It traded at a volume of 0.04 million shares in the last trading session.
Global X AgTech & Food Innovation ETF KROP
This fund, with net assets worth $6.50 million, offers exposure to 30 companies involved in the provision of agricultural technologies related to precision agriculture, agricultural robots and automation, controlled environment agriculture (e.g., vertical farming, hydroponics), and agricultural biotechnology, as well as those involved in food innovation activities related to protein/dairy alternatives and food waste reduction. FMC holds the tenth position in this fund, with 4.16% weightage.
KROP has gained 13.9% over the past year. The fund charges 50 bps as fees. It traded at a volume of 0.001 million shares in the last trading session.
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iShares MSCI Agriculture Producers ETF (VEGI): ETF Research Reports
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

ETFs in Spotlight as Trump Moves to Mobilize Defense Production Act

(RTTNews) - Nutrien Ltd. (NTR) revealed a profit for its fourth quarter that Increases, from the same period last year
The company's bottom line came in at $571 million, or $1.18 per share. This compares with $113 million, or $0.23 per share, last year.
Excluding items, Nutrien Ltd. reported adjusted earnings of $403 million or $0.83 per share for the period.
The company's revenue for the period rose 5.3% to $5.34 billion from $5.07 billion last year.
Nutrien Ltd. earnings at a glance (GAAP) :
-Earnings: $571 Mln. vs. $113 Mln. last year. -EPS: $1.18 vs. $0.23 last year. -Revenue: $5.34 Bln vs. $5.07 Bln last year.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.