The Progressive Corporation, an insurance holding company, provides personal and commercial auto, personal residential and commercial property, business related general liability, and other specialty property-casualty insurance products and related services in the United States. It operates in three segments: Personal Lines, Commercial Lines, and Property. The Personal Lines segment writes insurance for personal autos and recreational vehicles (RV). This segment's products include personal auto insurance; and special lines products, including insurance for motorcycles, ATVs, RVs, watercrafts, snowmobiles, and related products. The Commercial Lines segment provides auto-related liability and physical damage insurance, and business-related general liability and property insurance for autos, vans, and pick-up trucks used by small businesses, as well as non-fleet taxis, black-car services, and airport taxis; tractors, trailers, and straight trucks primarily used by regional general freight and expeditor-type businesses, and long-haul operators; dump trucks used by light contractors and heavy constructions; log trucks and garbage trucks used by dirt, sand and gravel, logging, garbage/debris removal, and coal-type businesses; and tow trucks and wreckers used in towing services and gas/service station businesses. The Property segment writes residential property insurance for homeowners, other property owners, and renters, as well as offers manufactured homes, personal umbrella insurance, and primary and excess flood insurance. The company offers policy issuance and claims adjusting services; acts as an agent to homeowners, general liability, workers' compensation insurance, and other products; and reinsurance services. It sells its products through independent insurance agencies, as well as through mobile applications and over the phone. The Progressive Corporation was founded in 1937 and is headquartered in Mayfield Village, Ohio.

Progressive Corporation (The)

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -0.05%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.23%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.28%. March E-mini S&P futures (ESH26) are down -0.04%, and March E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQH26) are down -0.28%.
Stock indexes gave up early gains today and turned lower on weakness in megacap technology stocks. Higher bond yields are a negative factor for stocks as the 10-year T-note yield climbed to a 1.5-week high today at 4.19%. In addition, weakness in insurance stocks is a drag on the overall market.
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The strength in chip makers, megacap technology stocks, and AI-infrastructure companies is a supportive factor for stocks. Also, strength in European stocks today is providing carryover support to US equity markets after the Euro Stoxx 50 rallied to a new record high.
The US Dec S&P manufacturing PMI was kept unrevised at 51.8, right on expectations.
The markets are discounting the odds at 15% for a -25 bp rate cut at the FOMC’s next meeting on January 27-28.
Overseas stock markets are higher today. The Euro Stoxx 50 rallied to a new all-time high and is up by +0.77%. China’s Shanghai Composite and Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 are closed today for the New Year’s Day holidays.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) are down -4 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +2.6 bp to 4.181%. Mar T-notes fell to a 1.5-week low today, and the 10-year T-note yield rose to a 1.5-week high of 4.191%. T-notes are modestly lower today as stock market strength has reduced safe-haven demand for government debt securities. Also, rising inflation expectations are weighing on T-notes as the 10-year breakeven inflation rate rose to a 2.5-week high today at 2.262%.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield rose to a 1.5-week high of 2.910% and is up +3.6 bp to 2.890%. The 10-year UK gilt climbed to a 1.5-week high of 4.530% and is up +4.3 bp to 4.521%.
The Eurozone Dec S&P manufacturing PMI was revised downward by -0.4 to 48.4 from the previously reported 49.2.
The Eurozone Nov M3 money supply rose +3.0% y/y, stronger than expectations of +2.7% y/y and the highest in four months.
The UK Dec S&P manufacturing PMI was revised downward by -0.6 to 50.6 from the previously reported 51.2.
Swaps are discounting a 1% chance of a +25 bp rate hike by the ECB at its next policy meeting on February 5.
US Stock Movers
The Magnificent Seven stocks gave up early gains today and turned lower, weighing on the broader market. Microsoft (MSFT), Amazon.com (AMZN), and Meta Platforms (META) are down more than -2%. Also, Tesla (TSLA) is down more than -1% after reporting Q4 vehicle deliveries of 418,227, weaker than the consensus of 440,907. In addition, Alphabet (GOOGL) is down -0.60% and Apple (AAPL) is down -0.50%.
Chip makers and AI-infrastructure stocks are moving higher today to lead the overall market higher. Sandisk (SNDK) is up more than +12% to lead gainers in the S&P 500, and ASML Holding NV (ASML) is up more than +8% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after Alethia Capital double-upgraded the stock to buy from sell with a price target of $1,500. Also, Micron Technology (MU) is up more than +7%, and Lam Research (LRCX), Western Digital (WDC), and Intel (INTC) are up more than +6%. In addition, ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) is up more than +5%, and Applied Materials (AMAT), KLA Corp (KLAC), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Marvell Technology (MRVL), and Seagate Technology Holdings (STX) are up more than +4%. Finally, Broadcom (AVGO) is up more than +3%.
Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks are climbing today with Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) up more than +1%. Riot Platforms (RIOT) is up more than +9% and Mara Holdings (MARA) is up more than +8%. Also, Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY) is up more than +7% and Strategy (MSTR) and Coinbase Global (COIN) are up more than +2%.
Insurance stocks are under pressure today. Progressive (PGR) is down more than -7% to lead losers in the S&P 500. Also, Erie Indemnity (ERIE) is down more than -3%, and Allstate (ALL), American International Group (AIG), Hartford International Group (HIG), and Travelers (TRV) are down more than -1%.
Sable Offshore (SOC) is up more than +17% after a federal appeals court said the company can restart its California pipeline and can begin pumping oil from its three platforms off the coast of Santa Barbara, California.
RH (RH) is up more than +6%, and Wayfair (W) is up more than +5% after President Trump delayed tariff increases on upholstered furniture until next year.
Vertiv Holdings (VRT) is up more than +8% after Barclays upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $200.
Earnings Reports(1/2/2026)
Lifecore Biomedical (LFCR).
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 Give Up Early Gains as Megacap Tech Shares Fall

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.62%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.10%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +1.16%. March E-mini S&P futures (ESH26) are up +0.59%, and March E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQH26) are up +1.14%.
Stock indexes are moving higher today, led by strength in chip makers, megacap technology stocks, and AI-infrastructure companies. Also, strength in European stocks today is providing carryover support to US equity markets after the Euro Stoxx 50 rallied to a new record high.
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Higher bond yields are a negative factor for stocks as the 10-year T-note yield climbed to a 1.5-week high today at 4.19%.
The US Dec S&P manufacturing PMI was kept unrevised at 51.8, right on expectations.
The markets are discounting the odds at 15% for a -25 bp rate cut at the FOMC’s next meeting on January 27-28.
Overseas stock markets are higher today. The Euro Stoxx 50 rallied to a new all-time high and is up by +0.99%. China’s Shanghai Composite and Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 are closed today for the New Year’s Day holidays.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) are down -2 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +0.8 bp to 4.163%. Mar T-notes fell to a 1.5-week low today, and the 10-year T-note yield rose to a 1.5-week high of 4.191%. T-notes are modestly lower today as stock market strength has reduced safe-haven demand for government debt securities. Also, rising inflation expectations are weighing on T-notes as the 10-year breakeven inflation rate rose to a 2.5-week high today at 2.259%.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield rose to a 1.5-week high of 2.910% and is up +3.0 bp to 2.885%. The 10-year UK gilt climbed to a 1.5-week high of 4.530% and is up +3.2 bp to 4.511%.
The Eurozone Dec S&P manufacturing PMI was revised downward by -0.4 to 48.4 from the previously reported 49.2.
The Eurozone Nov M3 money supply rose +3.0% y/y, stronger than expectations of +2.7% y/y and the highest in four months.
The UK Dec S&P manufacturing PMI was revised downward by -0.6 to 50.6 from the previously reported 51.2.
Swaps are discounting a 1% chance of a +25 bp rate hike by the ECB at its next policy meeting on February 5.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers and AI-infrastructure stocks are moving higher today to lead the overall market higher. Sandisk (SNDK) is up more than +8% to lead gainers in the S&P 500, and ASML Holding NV (ASML) is up more than +7% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after Alethia Capital double-upgraded the stock to buy from sell with a price target of $1,500. Also, Micron Technology (MU) is up more than +7%, and Lam Research (LRCX) is up more than +6%. In addition, Applied Materials (AMAT), ARM Holdings Plc (ARM), KLA Corp (KLAC), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), and Intel (INTC) are up more than +4%, and Western Digital (WDC), Marvell Technology (MRVL), Seagate Technology Holdings (STX), and Broadcom (AVGO) are up more than +3%.
The Magnificent Seven stocks are climbing today, helping lift the broader market. Nvidia (NVDA) and Alphabet (GOOGL) are up more than +2%, and Amazon.com (AMZN) and Apple (AAPL) are up more than +1%. Also, Tesla (TSLA) is up +0.31%. Bucking the trend, Microsoft (MSFT) is down -0.67% and Meta Platforms (META) is down -0.57%.
Insurance stocks are under pressure today. Progressive (PGR) is down more than -7% to lead losers in the S&P 500. Also, Erie Indemnity (ERIE) is down more than -2%, and Allstate (ALL), Hartford Insurance Group (HIG), Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AJG), and Travelers (TRV) are down more than -1%.
Sable Offshore (SOC) is up more than +18% after a federal appeals court said the company can restart its California pipeline and can begin pumping oil from its three platforms off the coast of Santa Barbara, California.
RH (RH) is up more than +7%, and Wayfair (W) is up more than +5% after President Trump delayed tariff increases on upholstered furniture until next year.
Vertiv Holdings (VRT) is up more than +7% after Barclays upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight with a price target of $200.
Earnings Reports(1/2/2026)
Lifecore Biomedical (LFCR).
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 Climb on Strength in Chip Makers and AI-Infrastructure Companies

Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel, one standout is the iShares ESG Aware MSCI USA ETF (Symbol: ESGU) where we have detected an approximate $262.7 million dollar inflow -- that's a 1.7% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 102,000,000 to 103,750,000). Among the largest underlying components of ESGU, in trading today Hartford Insurance Group Inc (Symbol: HIG) is off about 0.3%, Progressive Corp. (Symbol: PGR) is off about 0.4%, and Standard and Poors Global Inc (Symbol: SPGI) is lower by about 0.3%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the ESGU Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of ESGU, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, ESGU's low point in its 52 week range is $105.18 per share, with $151.1599 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $149.81. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average ».
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Also see:
PLBC shares outstanding history
Funds Holding RMNY
OPPJ Dividend History
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Notable ETF Inflow Detected - ESGU, HIG, PGR, SPGI

Looking at the universe of stocks we cover at Dividend Channel, on 1/2/26, Morningstar Inc (Symbol: MORN), Progressive Corp. (Symbol: PGR), and Raymond James Financial Inc (Symbol: RJF) will all trade ex-dividend for their respective upcoming dividends. Morningstar Inc will pay its quarterly dividend of $0.50 on 1/30/26, Progressive Corp. will pay its quarterly dividend of $13.50 on 1/8/26, and Raymond James Financial Inc will pay its quarterly dividend of $0.54 on 1/16/26. As a percentage of MORN's recent stock price of $218.00, this dividend works out to approximately 0.23%, so look for shares of Morningstar Inc to trade 0.23% lower — all else being equal — when MORN shares open for trading on 1/2/26. Similarly, investors should look for PGR to open 5.87% lower in price and for RJF to open 0.33% lower, all else being equal.
Below are dividend history charts for MORN, PGR, and RJF, showing historical dividends prior to the most recent ones declared.
Morningstar Inc (Symbol: MORN):
Progressive Corp. (Symbol: PGR):
Raymond James Financial Inc (Symbol: RJF):
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 0.92% for Morningstar Inc, 23.48% for Progressive Corp., and 1.33% for Raymond James Financial Inc.
Free Report: Top 8%+ Dividends (paid monthly)
In Wednesday trading, Morningstar Inc shares are currently off about 0.5%, Progressive Corp. shares are up about 0.6%, and Raymond James Financial Inc shares are off about 0.9% 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: Morningstar, Progressive and Raymond James Financial

Shares of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. BRK.B have gained momentum recently. The stock moved above its 50- as well as 200-day simple moving average (SMA) on Dec. 22, signaling a bullish trend.
The 50-day and 200-day SMAs are key indicators for traders and analysts to identify support and resistance levels. These are considered particularly important as they are the first markers of an uptrend or downtrend.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Based on short-term price targets offered by four analysts, the Zacks average price target is $537.75 per share. The average suggests a potential 7.6% upside from the last closing price.
BRK.B shares have gained 10.4% year to date, outperforming the industry’s increase of 9.9%. Berkshire Hathaway is a conglomerate with more than 90 subsidiaries engaged in diverse business activities. This provides it stability in various economic cycles.
BRK.B’s peer, Chubb Limited CB, has gained 13.4% year to date, while another peer, The Progressive Corporation PGR, has lost 5.3% year to date.
Chubb, a premier global provider of property and casualty insurance and reinsurance, is targeting growth in the middle-market segment across domestic and international regions. Chubb is enhancing its core package solutions and expanding its specialty insurance portfolio. With focused strategic initiatives, Chubb seeks sustainable growth and stronger competitive positioning.
Progressive, one of the top auto insurers in the United States, is well-positioned to sustain profitability through its strong market presence, broad product offerings and disciplined underwriting. Progressive is advancing its strategy by promoting bundled auto insurance, limiting exposure to high-risk properties, and enhancing segmentation with targeted, innovative solutions. With this approach, Progressive continues to strengthen its competitive edge.
BRK.B Shares Are Expensive
The stock is overvalued compared with its industry. It is currently trading at a price-to-book multiple of 1.54, higher than the industry average of 1.51 but below the median of 1.57.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Berkshire is relatively cheap compared to Progressive but expensive compared to Chubb.
The Case for BRK.B Stock
Berkshire Hathaway’s insurance operations form the core of its business model, accounting for about one-quarter of total revenues and serving as a major engine of long-term value creation. The segment’s strength lies in disciplined underwriting, broad market reach and an ability to remain profitable across economic cycles. A critical advantage is the impressive underwriting float it generates, which Warren Buffett has consistently used as a low-cost source of capital to fund investments across the company.
This insurance strength is complemented by Berkshire’s other major operating businesses. Berkshire Hathaway Energy (BHE), its regulated utility arm, delivers stable and predictable cash flows while continuing to expand investments in renewable energy. These initiatives align well with long-term global trends such as electrification, decarbonization and sustainability.
Within this segment, Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) plays a crucial strategic role as one of the largest freight rail networks in the United States. Although BNSF is currently facing challenges from an unfavorable freight mix and lower fuel surcharge revenues, it remains a high-quality, long-duration asset supported by essential freight demand and the ongoing importance of U.S. transportation infrastructure.
Berkshire’s Manufacturing, Service and Retail businesses add another layer of diversification and growth potential. This segment is more cyclical in nature and stands to benefit meaningfully from economic expansion and stronger consumer activity, which could drive higher sales volumes and margin improvement over time.
From a financial perspective, Berkshire maintains one of the most conservative capital allocation profiles among large corporations. The company holds more than $100 billion in cash and cash equivalents, with nearly 90% invested in short-term U.S. Treasuries and other government-backed securities. While elevated interest rates have recently enhanced investment income, expected Federal Reserve rate cuts should still preserve ample liquidity and provide flexibility. This conservative balance sheet allows Berkshire to act decisively on acquisition opportunities while maintaining steady income generation.
Berkshire has also been actively adjusting its equity portfolio. It has exited its position in BYD, reduced stakes in Apple and Bank of America, and expanded exposure to Japanese trading houses such as Mitsubishi and Mitsui. More recently, the company initiated an investment in Alphabet, reflecting confidence in durable, innovative businesses with strong cash flows. These portfolio shifts highlight a focus on stability, long-term value and capital returns through reinvestment and share repurchases.
Finally, Berkshire’s growing insurance float—rising from $114 billion in 2017 to $176 billion by the end of the third quarter of 2025—continues to supply low-cost capital, strengthening its balance sheet and reinforcing its ability to compound shareholder value over time.
Berkshire Hathaway’s Return on Capital
Return on equity (“ROE”) in the trailing 12 months was 7.3%, underperforming the industry average of 8%. Return on equity, a key profitability measure, reflects how effectively a company utilizes its shareholders’ funds. It is noteworthy that though BRK.B’s ROE lags the industry average, the metric has been improving consistently.
The same holds true for return on invested capital (ROIC), which has increased every year since 2020. This reflects BRK.B’s efficiency in utilizing funds to generate income. However, ROIC in the trailing 12 months was 5.7%, lower than the industry average of 6.2%.
Muted Analyst Sentiment
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 and 2026 revenues indicates a 3.5% and 6% year-over-year increase, respectively. However, the consensus estimate for 2025 and 2026 earnings implies a 5.2% and 3.9% year-over-year decrease, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The consensus estimate for 2025 and 2026 earnings witnessed no movement in the last 30 days.
Parting Thoughts on BRK.B Shares
Berkshire Hathaway has been a cornerstone of investor portfolios for decades, generating steady shareholder value under Warren Buffett’s nearly 60-year leadership. The spotlight now shifts to the next chapter, with Greg Abel set to become CEO on Jan 1, 2026, while Buffett remains executive chairman.
Still, current factors warrant caution. With the stock trading at a premium, returns on capital appearing moderate, looming near-term earnings pressure and muted analyst sentiment, maintaining a wait-and-see stance appears sensible for this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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 >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

BRK.B Stock Moves Above 50- & 200-Day SMA: Buy, Sell or Stay Invested?

It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.
The research service features daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, all of which will help you become a smarter, more confident investor.
It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores?
Developed alongside the Zacks Rank, the Zacks Style Scores are a group of complementary indicators that help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value Score
For value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth Score
While good value is important, growth investors are more focused on a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score takes projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow into account to uncover stocks that will see long-term, sustainable growth.
Momentum Score
Momentum trading is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook, and these investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." The Momentum Style Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.
VGM Score
If you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank
A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.
Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +25.41% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
Here's an example: a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one with Style Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings outlook, and a bigger chance its share price will decrease too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Toll Brothers (TOL)
Based in Horsham, PA, Toll Brothers Inc. builds single-family detached and attached home communities; master planned luxury residential resort-style golf communities; and urban low, mid, and high-rise communities, principally on the land it develops and improves.
TOL is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
It also boasts a Value Style Score of B thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 10.36; value investors should take notice.
Six analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2024. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.49 to $14.52 per share. TOL boasts an average earnings surprise of 7.8%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, TOL should be on investors' short list.
Zacks Names #1 Semiconductor Stock
It's only 1/9,000th the size of NVIDIA which skyrocketed more than +800% since we recommended it. NVIDIA is still strong, but our new top chip stock has much more room to boom.
With strong earnings growth and an expanding customer base, it's positioned to feed the rampant demand for Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Internet of Things. Global semiconductor manufacturing is projected to explode from $452 billion in 2021 to $803 billion by 2028.
See This Stock Now for Free >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 5 Stocks Set to Double. Click to get this free report
To read this article on Zacks.com click here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Why This 1 Value Stock Could Be a Great Addition to Your Portfolio

Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel, one standout is the iShares S&P 500 Growth ETF (Symbol: IVW) where we have detected an approximate $3.3 billion dollar inflow -- that's a 4.9% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 540,250,000 to 566,900,000). Among the largest underlying components of IVW, in trading today Salesforce Inc (Symbol: CRM) is up about 1.4%, Boston Scientific Corp. (Symbol: BSX) is up about 0.3%, and Progressive Corp. (Symbol: PGR) is up by about 0.9%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the IVW Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of IVW, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, IVW's low point in its 52 week range is $79.31 per share, with $126.605 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $123.40. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average ».
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Also see:
CYTR Videos
BSV Options Chain
Top Ten Hedge Funds Holding DXB
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Notable ETF Inflow Detected - IVW, CRM, BSX, PGR

Key Points
Investing in blue-chip stocks can provide a solid foundation for your portfolio due to their resilience.
Blue-chip companies typically generate consistent cash flow, enabling them to pay dividends, engage in share buybacks, and invest in growth opportunities.
Many blue-chip stocks are leaders in their respective industries, which positions them well to weather business cycles.
If you're looking to build wealth, investing in the stock market is an excellent place to start. But with literally thousands of stocks to choose from, where does one start? One type of stock to consider is blue-chip stocks. These are companies that are industry leaders with proven business models and a long history of operating across the various economic and business cycles.
These companies tend to have strong balance sheets and sound business models, helping these stocks deliver stellar returns over time. One key advantage is that they generate steady cash flow, which can fund dividends, share buybacks, acquisitions, or other investments that help support long-term growth.
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Another benefit is that these companies can be a pillar of stability in your portfolio, because they tend to experience less volatility than more speculative ventures. If this appeals to you and you have $10,000 in cash you're looking to invest, here are five top-notch blue-chip stocks to buy today.
The largest bank in the United States
JPMorgan Chase (NYSE: JPM) is the largest bank in the United States and a premier blue-chip stock. The bank boasts a massive balance sheet with over $3.8 trillion in assets under management worldwide. This large asset base provides it with advantages of scale, including a low-cost funding source and a fortress balance sheet that allows it to weather economic downturns better than its peers.
With CEO Jamie Dimon at the helm, JPMorgan Chase has navigated various business and economic environments. Most recently, the bank stood out among its peers during the Federal Reserve's interest rate hiking cycle from 2022 to 2023. Not only did the bank benefit from higher interest income, but its fortress balance sheet also enabled it to scoop up First Republic Bank's assets when many other banks struggled.
The world's largest asset manager
BlackRock (NYSE: BLK) is the world's largest asset manager with over $13.5 trillion in assets under management (AUM). This scale provides BlackRock with a huge source of recurring revenue, as it earns a percentage of fees based on total AUM.
The investment firm's strength lies in its exchange-traded fund (ETF) products, which are offered through its iShares brand. BlackRock is one of the world's largest ETF providers because it offers investors targeted exposure across industries, sectors, themes, and other investment considerations.
The growth of passive investing has been aided by BlackRock's expanding product lineup, which generates stable revenue and free cash flow, allowing the firm to reinvest in the business or reward shareholders with a growing dividend, which it has done for 16 consecutive years.
An essential player in global credit markets
Moody's (NYSE: MCO) is a key player in global financial markets due to its role in the credit rating industry. When corporations and governments issue debt or other structured debt products, they require a credit rating to access global markets and appeal to institutional investors, such as banks and pension funds.
What makes Moody's compelling is the high barriers to entry for the credit rating industry. It takes decades to build up expertise and, more importantly, the trust of market participants. Not only that, but regulatory burdens are high, and today Moody's and S&P Global dominate the credit rating industry, collectively holding an 80% market share.
With stellar profit margins and a strong position in a hard-to-break-into industry, Moody's is another solid blue-chip stock to consider today.
Two top-notch insurance companies
When it comes to blue-chip stocks, insurance companies can be quite appealing due to their steady premium income and investment returns. Two property and casualty insurance companies with an excellent track record of underwriting profitability are Progressive (NYSE: PGR) and Chubb (NYSE: CB).
Both companies operate in the insurance space, but not necessarily in the same space. Progressive primarily writes personal auto insurance policies and is the second-largest auto insurer in the U.S. Meanwhile, Chubb underwrites commercial insurance across a wide range of products, including general liability, cyber risk, accident, health, and specialty insurance.
Chubb consistently pays a dividend, which it has increased every year for the past 32 years. On the other hand, Progressive rewards investors with a special dividend during years of strong growth. The company recently declared a special dividend of $13.50, or a 5.8% yield based on its most recent closing price.
Should you buy stock in JPMorgan Chase right now?
Before you buy stock in JPMorgan Chase, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and JPMorgan Chase wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $509,039!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,109,506!*
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*Stock Advisor returns as of December 20, 2025.
JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Courtney Carlsen has positions in JPMorgan Chase and Progressive. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase, Moody's, Progressive, and S&P Global. The Motley Fool recommends BlackRock. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

5 Blue Chip Stocks to Buy With $10,000 and Hold Forever

Explore the exciting world of Progressive (NYSE: PGR) with our contributing expert analysts in this Motley Fool Scoreboard episode. Check out the video below to gain valuable insights into market trends and potential investment opportunities!
*Stock prices used were the prices of Nov. 12, 2025. The video was published on Dec. 19, 2025.
Should you buy stock in Progressive right now?
Before you buy stock in Progressive, consider this:
Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now, when you join Stock Advisor. See the stocks »
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Progressive wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $506,935!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,067,514!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 958% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 192% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of December 19, 2025.
Anand Chokkavelu has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Dan Caplinger has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Toby Bordelon has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Progressive. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Progressive: A Strong Contender in the Insurance Market

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Wednesday closed down by -1.16%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) closed down by -0.47%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed down by -1.93%. December E-mini S&P futures (ESZ25) fell -1.02%, and December E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQZ25) fell -1.71%.
Stock indexes retreated on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 posting 3-week lows. The rout in AI-infrastructure stocks and chip makers on Wednesday weighed on the broader market and sparked risk-off in asset markets. Also, a -2% fall in Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) weighed on cryptocurrency-exposed stocks.
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On the positive side, energy producers moved higher, as WTI crude oil rose more than 1% after President Trump announced an oil blockade on tankers entering and leaving Venezuela. Mining stocks are also moving higher as tensions in Venezuela escalate, boosting safe-haven demand for precious metals, with silver soaring to a new all-time high.
Dovish comments today from Fed Governor Christopher Waller were supportive of stocks and bonds, as he said the US labor market is "pretty soft," with close to zero job growth, and that inflation is "pretty well anchored" around 2%. He added that interest rates are still 50-100 basis points above neutral, and the Fed can steadily lower them with no rush.
Comments from Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic were slightly hawkish, with him saying that US GDP growth is solid and that he sees it continuing in 2026. He added that in a close call, inflation is more worrying than the labor market.
US MBA weekly mortgage applications fell -3.8% in the week ended December 12, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -2.8% and the refinancing mortgage sub-index down -3.6%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +5 bp to 6.38% from 6.33% in the prior week.
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 mixed on Wednesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 fell to a 2-week low and closed down -0.63%. China’s Shanghai Composite closed up +1.19%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 recovered from a 2-week low and closed up +0.26%.
Interest Rates
March 10-year T-notes (ZNH6) on Wednesday fell by -0.5 of a tick. The 10-year T-note yield rose +0.6 bp to 4.151%.
T-notes were little changed on Wednesday. T-note prices had a negative carryover from a plunge in Japanese 10-year bonds to an 18-year low. Also, hawkish comments from Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic weighed on T-notes, as he said US GDP growth is solid and that he sees it continuing in 2026.
T-notes found support on Wednesday from dovish comments from Fed Governor Waller, who said the Fed can keep cutting rates as interest rates are still 50-100 bp above neutral. Also, solid demand for the Treasury’s $13 billion auction of 20-year T-bonds was supportive for T-notes as the auction had a bid-to-cover ratio of 2.67, above the 10-auction average of 2.62.
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 were mixed on Wednesday. The 10-year German bund yield rebounded from a 1-week low of 2.826% and finished up +1.9 bp to 2.864%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell to a 1.5-week low of 4.446% and finished down -4.3 bp to 4.475%.
Eurozone Nov CPI was revised downward to +2.1% y/y from the previously reported +2.2% y/y.
Eurozone Q3 labor costs eased to +3.3% y/y from +3.9% y/y in Q2, the smallest pace of increase in three years.
The German Dec IFO business conditions survey unexpectedly fell -0.4 to a 7-month low of 87.6 versus expectations of an increase to 88.2.
UK Nov CPI eased to +3.2% y/y from +3.6% y/y in Oct, better than expectations of +3.5% y/y and the slowest pace of increase in eight months. Nov core CPI rose +3.2% y/y, weaker than expectations of +3.4% y/y and the slowest pace of increase in 11 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
AI-infrastructure stocks and chip makers sold off on Wednesday and weighed on market sentiment. GE Vernova (GEV) closed down more than -10% to lead losers in the S&P 500, and Constellation Energy (CEG) closed down more than -6% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100. Also, ASML Holding NV (ASML), Palantir Technologies (PLTR), ARM Holdings Plc (ARM), Lam Research (LRCX), and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) closed down more than -5%. In addition, KLA Corp (KLAC), Broadcom (AVGO), and Applied Materials (AMAT) closed down more than -4%, and Nvidia (NVDA), Microchip Technology (MCHP), Intel (INTC), and Micron Technology (MU) closed down more than -3%.
Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks tumbled on Wednesday as Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) fell more than -2%. Mara Holdings (MARA) and Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY) closed down more than -6%. Also, Strategy (MSTR) closed down more than -4%, and Riot Platforms (RIOT) and Coinbase Global (COIN) closed down more than -3%.
Homebuilding stocks retreated on Wednesday, led by a -4% fall in Lennar (LEN) after it forecast Q1 new orders of 18,000 to 19,000, below the consensus of 20,297. Also, DR Horton (DHI) and PulteGroup (PHM) closed down more than -1%.
Energy producers and energy service providers moved higher on Wednesday after WTI crude oil rose more than 1%. Devon Energy (DVN) closed up more than +5%, and ConocoPhillips (COP) and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) closed up more than +4%. Also, Diamondback Energy (FANG) closed up more than +3% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100. In addition, APA Corp (APA), Halliburton (HAL) and Exxon Mobil (XOM) closed up more than +2%. Finally, Chevron (CVX) closed up more than +1% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials.
Oracle (ORCL) closed down more than -5% after the Financial Times reported that Blue Owl Capital will not back a $10 billion deal for Oracle’s next data center.
Brown-Forman Corp (BF.B) closed down more than -5% after Citigroup downgraded the stock to sell from neutral with a price target of $27.
Paramount Skydance (PSKY) closed down more than -5% as Warner Bros. Discovery plans to reject Paramount Skydance’s takeover bid due to concerns about financing and other terms.
Fortinet (FTNT) closed down more than -3% after JPMorgan Chase downgraded the stock to underweight from neutral with a price target of $75.
Bally’s Corp (BALY) closed down more than -3% after Barclays downgraded the stock to underweight from equal weight with a price target of $11.
Worthington Enterprises (WOR) closed down more than -2% after reporting Q2 adjusted EPS of 65 cents, weaker than the consensus of 70 cents.
Progressive Corp (PGR) closed down more than -1% after reporting that November net premiums written fell 12% m/m.
Texas Pacific Land Corp (TPL) closed up more than +7% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after announcing a strategic agreement with Bolt Data & Energy to develop large-scale data center campuses across TPL’s West Texas land holdings.
General Mills (GIS) closed up more than +3% after reporting Q2 net sales of $4.86 billion, above the consensus of $4.79 billion.
Albemarle (ALB) closed up more than +2% to lead lithium producers higher as lithium prices continue to rise with expected demand growth.
Lumentum Holdings (LITE) closed up more than +1% after Morgan Stanley raised its price target on the stock to $304 from $190.
Salesforce (CRM) closed up more than +1% after BTIG initiated coverage on the stock with a recommendation of buy and a price target of $335.
Earnings Reports(12/18/2025)
Accenture PLC (ACN), Birkenstock Holding Plc (BIRK), CarMax Inc (KMX), Cintas Corp (CTAS), Darden Restaurants Inc (DRI), FactSet Research Systems Inc (FDS), FedEx Corp (FDX), HEICO Corp (HEI), NIKE Inc (NKE).
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.