Meta Platforms — The shares of the social media company rose nearly 3% after announcing plans to introduce advertising on WhatsApp. The firm will also begin monetizing WhatsApp’s Channels feature via search ads and subscriptions.
MGM Resorts — The casino company’s shares increased by 8% after BetMGM LLC, a venture shared with Entain, revised its annual revenue forecast upward. The expected net revenue for BetMGM is now at least $2.6 billion, up from the previous estimate of $2.4 billion to $2.5 billion.
Energy stocks — Shares of major energy firms fell as oil prices dropped. This decline was influenced by reports of Iran’s intention to end hostilities with Israel. APA Corporation fell by 2.4%, EOG Resources decreased by 1.7%, and ConocoPhillips dropped by 2%.
Cisco — The technology stock surged 2% after Deutsche Bank upgraded its rating from hold to buy, stating it is currently undervalued. Analyst Matt Niknam noted that Cisco’s projections seem increasingly achievable, supported by rising demand for artificial intelligence.
U.S. Steel — Shares of U.S. Steel increased by 5% following an executive order from President Donald Trump approving its merger with Japan’s Nippon Steel. The two companies also established a national security agreement that includes a “golden share” for the U.S. government. While U.S. Steel hasn’t detailed the specific powers associated with this share, Trump mentioned that it grants the president “total control.”
Roku — The streaming service’s shares jumped 10% after it announced a new exclusive partnership with Amazon, giving advertisers access to the “largest authenticated footprint in connected TV.” This partnership allows advertisers to reach around 80 million U.S. households through Amazon’s platform.
Advanced Micro Devices — Shares of the chip manufacturer surged by more than 8% following an increase in its price target from Piper Sandler. After AMD’s quarterly earnings call last Friday, Piper expressed optimism about AMD’s AI business growth post-third quarter and noted increasing investor confidence regarding a significant hyperscaler client.
EchoStar — The satellite company experienced a whopping 49% rise after Bloomberg News reported that President Trump urged the head of the Federal Communications Commission to resolve a spectrum issue. EchoStar has been contemplating bankruptcy protection and claims FCC threats have hindered its decisions on a 5G network rollout.
Celsius — The energy drink brand saw a rally of over 5% after TD Cowen upgraded its stock rating to buy from hold, claiming its “growth story is heating back up” and shares are expected to rise this year. The investment bank expressed confidence in Celsius, highlighting smooth integration after its Alani Nu acquisition and broader distribution planned for next year.
Victoria’s Secret — Shares edged up by about 2% following news that activist investor Barington Capital Group has acquired a stake in the company. Barington aims to push for a board overhaul and refocus of the business, as reported by The Wall Street Journal, citing a letter sent to Victoria’s Secret Chair Donna James.
Sage Therapeutics — Shares soared by 35% after the company agreed to be acquired by Supernus Pharmaceuticals for $12 per share, totaling $795 million. This acquisition is expected to diversify Supernus’ revenue and add the FDA-approved postpartum depression treatment, Zurzuvae, to their portfolio. Sage shareholders will receive $8.50 per share in cash and a contingent value right worth up to an additional $3.50 per share upon meeting specific milestones.
Sarepta Therapeutics — The biopharmaceutical firm saw a significant drop of about 42% after reporting a second patient death associated with its Elevidys gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. As a result, Sarepta has halted shipments of Elevidys and is working to enhance safety for non-ambulatory patients.
Estée Lauder, Coty — Speculation about potential deals led to gains for these beauty brands. This uptick followed stronger-than-expected sales from China and rumors of a possible sale of Estée Lauder after the passing of its chairman emeritus, Leonard Lauder. Additionally, reports indicated that Coty is considering separating its luxury brands from mass-market products like CoverGirl and Max Factor. Estée Lauder shares surged over 10%, while Coty rose nearly 7%.
— Reporting contributed by CNBC’s Jesse Pound, Michelle Fox, Christina Cheddar Berk, and Courtney Reagan.
