Thursday’s trading session promises significant market activity driven by a blend of earnings reports, executive insights, and critical industry developments. Investors will closely watch companies like Shake Shack, Affirm, Airbnb, and Qualcomm amidst their respective news and upcoming media appearances. Meanwhile, the energy sector is set to remain volatile as CNBC reports on Europe’s energy crisis, and specific brands like Wendy’s, Darden, Keurig Dr. Pepper, and Moderna celebrate new highs or face strategic shifts.
Get ready for a dynamic trading session as several key companies and sectors are positioned to make significant moves. From earnings insights to groundbreaking deals and a deepening energy crisis, here’s a look at what’s likely to capture Wall Street’s attention.
Shake Shack on the Grill: Fast-casual favorite Shake Shack is set to report earnings on 'Squawk Box.' While the stock has seen a commendable 10% gain over the past three months, it remains 32% down from its February peak. Investors will be keen to hear management's outlook.
Post-Bell Blockbusters: After the closing bell, several big names will be under the microscope. Affirm, despite being down 3% in three months and 16% from its August high, will feature CEO Max Levchin on "Mad Money" with Jim Cramer. Airbnb, which has soared nearly 18% in three months but is 9% off its August high, will also have CEO Brian Chesky checking in with Cramer. Lyft, up 12% over three months but still 26% down from its year-ago high, and Mattel, up about 5% in three months but 30% off its February high, also await further market reactions.
Qualcomm's Starlink Leap: Qualcomm is buzzing following its landmark deal with SpaceX to supply network technology for Starlink Mobile. CEO Cristiano Amon is scheduled to appear on "Halftime Report" with Scott Wapner, an interview secured by CNBC's Jon Fortt. This news sent the stock up 5.3% on Wednesday. Despite being down 33% from its May high, Qualcomm is up 1% year-to-date.
Wendy's Privatization Play: The fast-food chain Wendy's is in the spotlight as Nelson Peltz's Trian Fund Management is reportedly looking to take the company private. CNBC's Brandon Gomez will dive into the story. Wendy's shares are currently down 24% from their November high.
Europe's Energy Crisis and Atlantic Transport: CNBC's Brian Sullivan is reporting live from Rome, focusing on Europe's escalating energy crisis. His coverage will highlight stocks involved in transporting natural gas and other energy forms across the Atlantic. Companies like EQT Corporation (down 23% from March high, up 4.7% in a month), Cheniere (off 12% from last week's high, up 8% in a month), Antero Resources (down 18% from March high, up almost 10% in a month), Range Resources (off 8.4% from last week's high, up 36% in a month), and ConocoPhillips (down 11% from last week's high, up 8% in a month) are all seeing significant movements as natural gas prices climb 9% in a week.
New Highs for Darden, Keurig Dr. Pepper, and Moderna: Darden Restaurants, the powerhouse behind Olive Garden and Ruth's Chris, hit a new high Wednesday, now up 25% this year. Keurig Dr Pepper also reached a new high, with shares up 31% year-to-date. Pharma giant Moderna has also reached a fresh peak, surging approximately 36% in a month. Its long-term performance is even more staggering, with shares up over 350% in three months, nearly 450% in six months, and almost 1,000% in a year, offering a substantial boost to its investors.
