最新ニュース iShares Biotechnology ETF (NASDAQ:IBB)

iShares Biotechnology ETF

Healthcare

Basic Materials

To pursue its objective, the Fund seeks to track the investment results of the NYSE Biotechnology Index (the Underlying Index), which measures the performance of U.S.-listed securities of companies that are classified according to the ICE Uniform Sector Classification schema within the Biotechnology Sub-Industry Group (as determined by ICE Data Indices, LLC or its affiliates (collectively Index Provider or IDI)) and that also meet other eligibility criteria determined by the Index Provider, including minimum market capitalization and liquidity requirements. Companies classified within the Biotechnology Sub-Industry Group include those companies that are engaged in the research and development of therapeutic treatments but that are not focused on the commercialization and mass production of pharmaceutical drugs..

Gilead Sciences Inc

Regeneron

Nvaesrtex Pharmaceuticals Inc

Amgen Inc.

I Q V I A Holdings Inc.

Moderna therapeutics

Mettler-Toledo International Inc.

Biogen Inc. Com

Alnylam Pharmace

Argenx Se Ads

Waters Corp.

Biontech Se

Invesco Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Monday directing the Food and Drug Administration to accelerate approvals for domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities as his administration prepares to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44708204/trump-hints-at-major-tariff-on-imported-pharmaceuticals-us-pharma-stocks-tumble-in-wednesday-pre-market">announce new tariffs on imported medicines</a> within two weeks.
What Happened: The executive order aims to streamline the drug manufacturing approval process by eliminating unnecessary requirements and reducing the time needed to approve new U.S. production sites. 
According to the White House, building pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity currently takes &#8220;five to 10 years,&#8221; which it called &#8220;unacceptable from a national-security standpoint.&#8221;
&#8220;We don&#8217;t want to be buying our pharmaceuticals from other countries because if we&#8217;re in a war, we&#8217;re in a problem, we want to be able to make our own,&#8221; Trump said in a White House fact sheet.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45213562/peter-schiff-challenges-us-dominance-after-elon-musks-china-consumption-narrative-a-50-drop-in-the-dollar-could-supercharge-chinas-global-consumer-base">Peter Schiff Challenges US Dominance After Elon Musk&#8217;s China Consumption Narrative — A 50% Drop In The Dollar Could Supercharge China&#8217;s Global Consumer Base</a>
Why It Matters: The executive order comes as U.S. pharmaceutical manufacturing has significantly declined over decades, with most active drug ingredients now produced in China and other countries. According to EY analysis, reported by Reuters, the U.S. imported $203 billion in pharmaceutical products in 2023, with 73% coming from Europe, primarily Ireland, Germany and Switzerland.
For investors, this points to broader <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/02/43982604/eli-lilly-doubles-capital-spending-on-us-drug-manufacturing-with-50-billion-target">shifts in the pharmaceutical secto</a>r, with companies such as Eli Lilly and Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), and AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) already unveiling new domestic manufacturing plans in reaction to the looming tariff threats.
The pending tariffs could significantly impact <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/45029761/experts-warn-tariffs-could-negatively-impact-pretty-fragile-supply-of-generic-drugs">generic drug makers</a>, which provide 90% of U.S. prescriptions, possibly worsening existing shortages. There are already over 250 drug shortages nationwide, down from 323 in early 2024 but still concerning for healthcare stakeholders.
Mark Cuban, whose Cost Plus Drugs company sells medications at substantial discounts, warned the tariffs could force <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44658207/mark-cuban-says-cost-plus-drugs-faces-price-hike-threat-tariffs-would-force-us-to-pass-costs-directly-to-consumers">price increases on many drugs</a>: &#8220;If we have a high tariff on drugs coming from India, we won&#8217;t have a choice but to pass those costs on to consumers.&#8221;
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image Via Shutterstock

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ABBV

Trump Orders FDA To Fast-Track US Drug Production As Tariff Threat Looms On Imported Medicines: Cites National Security Concerns

Experts raise alarms about Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr&#8216;s decision to fire tens of thousands of federal workers, disrupting critical health data collection and research efforts.
What Happened:&nbsp;Kennedy&#8217;s sweeping layoffs have interrupted data collection on numerous health issues, ranging&nbsp;from cancer rates in firefighters&nbsp;to mother-to-baby transmission of HIV&nbsp;and syphilis. The cuts have also hindered research into future pandemics and the containment of current outbreaks, such as the worst measles outbreak in decades, as <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/13/abortions-cancer-in-firefighters-and-super-gonorrhea-rfk-jr-s-cuts-halt-data-collection-00284828">reported </a>by POLITICO on Sunday. 
Ursula Bauer, a former executive&nbsp;at the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) told Fortune, "The forced exodus of highly skilled, highly educated researchers, scientists and professionals from the federal government is really just extraordinary…It is going to take decades to rebuild."
The&nbsp;Department of Health and Human&nbsp;Services (HHS) has confirmed a workforce reduction of 20,000 to Fortune, a nearly 25% cut from 82,000 to 62,000. This involves leading experts and top professionals in their fields, resulting in an organizational gap with no clear replacement plan in place.
The cuts have temporarily blocked over $11 billion in Covid-era grants to state and county health departments, which were being used for broader public health efforts like disease tracking and addiction treatment, reported Fortune.
Jerome Adams, who was a surgeon general during Trump's first term told POLITICO, "Without robust data and surveillance systems, we cannot accurately assess whether we are truly making America healthier."
SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/25/04/44780394/andrew-yang-wonders-if-something-goes-down-10-and-then-up-10-are-you-back-where-you-started" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrew Yang Wonders, &#8216;If Something Goes Down 10% And Then Up 10%, Are You Back Where You Started?&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: These layoffs were not unexpected. In March, Kennedy <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44514142/rfk-jr-to-announce-10000-job-cuts-shut-regional-agencies-in-a-major-health-department-overhaul-report">was planning </a>a major overhaul of his department, including the elimination of 10,000 jobs and the closure of regional offices. The departments affected were those that handle disease outbreaks, approve new drugs, and offer insurance for the nation's poorest citizens.
Analysts have always expressed concerns over Kennedy&#8217;s appointment as U.S. Secretary&nbsp;of Health and Human Services, specifically <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43907155/nih-funding-cuts-to-spook-healthcare-stocks-rfk-jrs-confirmation-at-hhs-sparks-concerns-over-research-dollars-causing-uncertainty-says-analyst">regarding potential cuts </a>to&nbsp;the National Institutes of Health&nbsp;funding. They warned that such cuts could lead to increased "uncertainty" in the healthcare sector, potentially impacting healthcare stocks.
Experts agree that the U.S. healthcare systems need a major overhaul, but ending departments and layoffs may not be the solution. They now warn that these cuts could have long-term implications, driving people away from careers in science and drying up the pipeline of domestic and international talent. This comes at a time when China is striving to become a biomedical and biopharmaceutical superpower.
Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>) lost 5.56% in the last month, while iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>) lost 12.84% during the same period. Meanwhile, Vanguard Health Care ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VHT#NYSE">VHT</a>) declined 6.04%.
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RFK Jr.'s Massive Federal Health Workforce Cut Could Take 'Decades To Rebuild,' Warn Experts: 'We Cannot Accurately Assess Whether We Are Truly Making America Healthier'

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.&#8216;s appointment as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services has sparked concerns over funding for the National Institutes of Health. Analysts warn that potential cuts to this funding could lead to increased &#8220;uncertainty&#8221; in the healthcare sector, potentially impacting healthcare stocks.
What Happened: The NIH grants are &#8220;very important&#8221; sources of funding for a lot of labs out there, said Kyle Mikson, managing director and senior research analyst in <a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2414939/episodes/16662667">conversation</a> with Michael Graham, senior managing director and head of U.S. equity research internet analyst at Canaccord Genuity. 
Talking about RFK Jr.&#8217;s appointment Mikson said &#8220;He&#8217;s got some opposition to vaccines, to infectious disease research.&#8221; Highlighting the possible funding cuts along with caps on grants, Mikson added, "Things like that are causing uncertainty, causing, you know, stocks to decline."
Kennedy, known for his vaccine skepticism and conspiracy theories, has extended his influence globally, undermining health initiatives like vaccination and AIDS prevention, The New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/30/world/africa/rfk-jr-kennedy-international-work-public-health-policies.html">reports</a>. Through his nonprofit, Children's Health Defense, Kennedy has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42254495/trumps-hhs-pick-rfk-jr-has-a-long-history-of-challenging-global-health-policies">disrupted public health efforts</a> in countries like Uganda and South Africa. He has also questioned the World Health Organization and its programs for fueling global health conspiracies.
The Donald Trump-led <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/01/43194764/trump-administration-halts-all-communications-from-the-centers-for-disease-control-as-bird-flu-spreads">administration</a> is trying to set caps at around 15% and 10% for some labs which is delayed due to broad opposition by many states. While this is detrimental to some NIH-funded labs, others have stated that they can function without indirect cost funding or support.
While, NIH awarded about $2.5 billion in grants in the first six weeks of 2024, this year, that number has plummeted to $1.4 billion.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43906366/warren-buffetts-berkshire-boosts-bets-on-five-japanese-companies-admiration-has-consistently-grown-says-oracle-of-omaha-in-letter-to-shareholders">Warren Buffett&#8217;s Berkshire Boosts Bets On 5 Japanese Companies: Oracle Of Omaha Says Admiration &#8216;Has Consistently Grown&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: While there isn't going to be a blanket impact of these caps on all healthcare firms, Mikson explains that companies that are academically focused are more likely to be impacted as compared to the ones with a mixed revenue base.
However, when considering investment opportunities, especially for growth-oriented companies with research-driven businesses, the impact is particularly important, Mikson explained.
According to the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/02/43878703/institutional-investors-load-up-on-technology-and-financial-stocks-in-q4-while-reducing-positions-in-healthcare-sector-amid-political-uncertainty">13F SEC filings</a> during the fourth quarter, healthcare sectors experienced a sharp decline in investments, with allocations dropping by 1.4%. Adam Turnquist, the chief technical strategist at LPL Financial said that "The nomination of the so-called anti-vaccine Health Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and the potential for reduced Affordable Care Act subsidies," was also a potential trigger.
Kennedy&#8217;s appointment comes as healthcare costs rise and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/02/43549057/deadly-bird-flu-strain-hits-dairy-cows-could-make-covid-seem-like-a-walk-in-the-park-expert-says">bird flu spreads</a>, raising pandemic concerns. A longtime vaccine skeptic, his stance could impact pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) and Moderna Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), especially as he has questioned the safety and efficacy of bird flu vaccines.
Here is a list of healthcare sector-linked exchange-traded funds, that investors could consider while trying to gain exposure to the sector.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ETF Name</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
<td>One Year Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>)</td>
<td>6.41%</td>
<td>-0.46%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vanguard Health Care ETF VHT (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VHT#NYSE">VHT</a>)</td>
<td>5.79%</td>
<td>-0.19%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Biotechnology ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NASDAQ">IBB</a>)</td>
<td>4.51%</td>
<td>-0.18%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>)</td>
<td>0.19%</td>
<td>-5.79%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Medical Devices ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHI#NYSE">IHI</a>)</td>
<td>10.36%</td>
<td>12.22%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Global Healthcare ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IXJ#NYSE">IXJ</a>)</td>
<td>6.67%</td>
<td>-0.57%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Healthcare ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYH#NYSE">IYH</a>)</td>
<td>5.52%</td>
<td>-0.26%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fidelity MSCI Health Care Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FHLC#NYSE">FHLC</a>)</td>
<td>5.90%</td>
<td>-0.27%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ARK Genomic Revolution ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKG#BATS">ARKG</a>)</td>
<td>10.14%</td>
<td>-14.26%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology Index Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FBT#NYSE">FBT</a>)</td>
<td>6.72%</td>
<td>16.97%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/02/43878703/institutional-investors-load-up-on-technology-and-financial-stocks-in-q4-while-reducing-positions-in-healthcare-sector-amid-political-uncertainty">Institutional Investors Load Up On Technology And Financial Stocks In Q4 While Reducing Positions In Healthcare Sector Amid Political Uncertainty</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Market Summary

ETFs

General

ARKG

First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology Index Fund

FHLC

iShares Dow Jones US Medical Devices Index Fund

iShares Trust S&P Global Healthcare Sector Index Fund

iShares Trust Dow Jones US Healthcare Sector Index Fund

MRNA

NIH Funding Cuts To Spook Healthcare Stocks? RFK Jr's Confirmation At HHS Sparks Concerns Over Research Dollars, 'Causing Uncertainty,' Says Analyst

Trump Says He Wants To Bring Pharmaceuticals Back To America With Tariffs

Avadel Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVDL#NASDAQ">AVDL</a>) slipped by 25.63% in after-hours on Wednesday after it missed the fourth quarter sales estimate by 5.12%. Still, the sales of its narcolepsy drug, LUMRYZ rose by 150% on an annual basis.
What Happened: The preliminary earnings results for the fourth quarter pegged a 150% increase in net product revenue to $50 million, as compared to $19.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. This missed the consensus analyst estimate by 5.12%, which was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AVDL/earnings">expected </a>to be $52.7 million, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AVDL/earnings">Benzinga</a>.
The biopharmaceutical company is focused on treating cataplexy, excessive daytime sleepiness, and other sleep disorders in adults and children above seven.
The company reported a full-year net product revenue of approximately $169 million compared to $28 million in 2023. Its cash flow from operations stood at approximately $73 million for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2024.
Greg Divis, CEO of Avadel Pharmaceuticals, highlighted 2024 as a pivotal year, emphasizing the consistent patient adoption of LUMRYZ and the overwhelmingly positive feedback from both patients and providers regarding the life-changing benefits of its once-nightly dosing regimen.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/01/42871340/regional-banks-can-thrive-despite-big-bank-dominance-truist-securities-highlights-three-key-paths-for-thriving-regional-banks">Regional Banks Can Thrive Despite Big Bank Dominance: Truist Securities Highlights Three Key Paths For Thriving Regional Banks</a>
Why It Matters: There was a 275% increase from 900 patients on LUMRYZ in 2023 to 2,500 in 2024. According to its press release, demand continued across all three patient segments in the fourth quarter, with 34% of patients being new to oxybates and 38% switching from first-generation oxybates.
The company expects the net product revenue for 2025 in the range of $240 million to $260 million, representing a 50% increase at the midpoint of guidance from 2024 and a positive cash flow of $20 million – $40 million.
Divis added that moving into 2025, the company is refining its strategy to increase LUMRYZ&#8217;s demand and aiming to drive uptake across all narcolepsy patient segments. &#8220;We&#8217;re well-positioned to lead in the sleep space and transform care for patients with sleep disorders.&#8221; he said.
Price Action: Avadel shares have fallen by 32.72% over the last six months, underperforming the Nasdaq Biotechnology Index, which fell by 5.07% in the same period. Furthermore, the exchange-traded fund tracking the index, iShares Biotechnology ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NASDAQ">IBB</a>) fell 2.9% over the last six months.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a> data, AVDL has a consensus price target of $20.9 per share, with a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating based on the ratings of 10 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SERV/analyst-ratings">analysts</a>. The highest price target out of all the analysts tracked by Benzinga is $30 issued by Oppenheimer as of Oct. 31, 2024. The lowest target price is $11 per share issued by Jefferies on Nov. 30, 2024.
The average price target between HC Wainwright &amp; Co., Needham, and Needham implies an 189.31% upside for AVDL.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SERV/analyst-ratings"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="946" height="355" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/09010640/AVDL-ANR.png" alt="" class="wp-image-725276" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/09010640/AVDL-ANR.png 946w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/09010640/AVDL-ANR-300x113.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/09010640/AVDL-ANR-768x288.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 946px) 100vw, 946px" /></a></figure>
Photo Courtesy: Pixabay.
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Earnings

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Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

Analyst Ratings

Avadel Pharmaceuticals plc - American Depositary Shares each representing one Ordinary Share

AVDL

Avadel Pharmaceuticals Misses Earnings Estimates But Posts 150% Sales Increase From  Narcolepsy Drug LUMRYZ

On CNBC's &#8220;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2024/11/15/final-trade-west-pharma-cameco-ishares-biotechnology-etf-and-applied-digital-corp.html">Halftime Report Final Trades</a>,&#8221; Tim Seymour of Seymour Asset Management picked Cameco Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCJ#NYSE">CCJ</a>).
On Nov. 7, Cameco posted a loss for the third quarter but raised its FY24 revenue guidance.
Julie Biel of Kayne Anderson Rudnick named West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WST#NYSE">WST</a>), saying this health care <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WST/earnings">trade is &#8220;overblown.&#8221;</a>
On Oct. 24, West Pharmaceutical Services reported adjusted EPS of $1.85, down from $2.16 a year ago, beating the consensus of $1.50. The designer and manufacturer of injectable pharmaceutical packaging and delivery systems reported sales of $746.9 million, beating the consensus of $709.62 million.
Don't forget to check out ou <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket coverage here</a>
Karen Finerman of Metropolitan Capital Advisors said she likes iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>) here.
Steven Grasso of Grasso Global Inc. named Applied Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APLD#NASDAQ">APLD</a>) as his final trade.
Nvidia's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) 13F fling, last week, showed it purchased 7.72 million Applied Digital shares worth $63.66 million as of Sept. 30, which translates into close to a 3.6% stake in Applied Digital, which had 215.36 million <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42016662/nvidia-reveals-3-6-stake-in-applied-digital-stock-soars">outstanding shares as of Oct. 8,</a>
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>West Pharmaceutical shares dipped 7% to close at $314.49 on Friday.</li>
<li>Cameco shares gained by 0.9% to settle at $53.59 during Friday's session.</li>
<li>iShares Biotechnology ETF fell by 4.8% during Friday's session.</li>
<li>Applied Digital shares gained 5.4% to settle at $7.23.</li>
</ul>
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Image: Courtesy of Cameco

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NVDA

Cameco, Applied Digital, West Pharmaceutical And More On CNBC's 'Final Trades'

Market Vectors ETF Trust Market Vectors Gold Miners

MSTR

Rydex ETF Trust Rydex S&P Equal Weight ETF

Elliott Investment Management 13F Shows Exited Position In Marathon Petroleum, Previously Holding 7,365,000 Shares; Ishares Biotechnology ETF Put Position, Previously Holding 2,800,000 Shares; Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight ETF Put Position, Previously Holding 1,925,000 Shares; Vaneck Gold Miners ETF Put Position, Previously Holding 5,000,000 Shares; BHP Group Ltd Call Position, Previously Holding 2,500,000 Shares; MicroStrategy Convertible Note, Previously Holding $27.5 Million In Principal

Designed to provide broad exposure to the Healthcare - Biotech segment of the equity market, the iShares Biotechnology ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ibb#NASDAQ">IBB</a>) is a passively managed exchange traded fund launched on 02/05/2001.
Passively managed ETFs are becoming increasingly popular with institutional as well as retail investors due to their low cost, transparency, flexibility and tax efficiency. They are excellent vehicles for long term investors.
Additionally, sector ETFs offer convenient ways to gain low risk and diversified exposure to a broad group of companies in particular sectors. Healthcare - Biotech is one of the 16 broad Zacks sectors within the Zacks Industry classification. It is currently ranked 4, placing it in top 25%.
<h2>Index Details</h2>
The fund is sponsored by Blackrock. It has amassed assets over $7.92 billion, making it one of the largest ETFs attempting to match the performance of the Healthcare - Biotech segment of the equity market. IBB seeks to match the performance of the Nasdaq Biotechnology Index before fees and expenses.
The ICE Biotechnology Index contains securities of NASDAQ listed companies that are classified as either biotechnology or pharmaceuticals.
<h2>Costs</h2>
Expense ratios are an important factor in the return of an ETF and in the long term, cheaper funds can significantly outperform their more expensive counterparts, other things remaining the same.
Annual operating expenses for this ETF are 0.45%, making it on par with most peer products in the space.
It has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 0.27%.
<h2>Sector Exposure and Top Holdings</h2>
While ETFs offer diversified exposure, which minimizes single stock risk, a deep look into a fund&#39;s holdings is a valuable exercise. And, most ETFs are very transparent products that disclose their holdings on a daily basis.
This ETF has heaviest allocation in the Healthcare sector--about 100% of the portfolio.
Looking at individual holdings, Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vrtx#NASDAQ">VRTX</a>) accounts for about 9.31% of total assets, followed by Amgen Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amgn#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/regn#NASDAQ">REGN</a>).
The top 10 holdings account for about 53.07% of total assets under management.
<h2>Performance and Risk</h2>
The ETF has gained about 8.95% and was up about 14.19% so far this year and in the past one year (as of 07/31/2024), respectively. IBB has traded between $112.41 and $148.26 during this last 52-week period.
The ETF has a beta of 0.74 and standard deviation of 22.11% for the trailing three-year period, making it a high risk choice in the space. With about 221 holdings, it effectively diversifies company-specific risk.
<h2>Alternatives</h2>
IShares Biotechnology ETF holds a Zacks ETF Rank of 2 (Buy), which is based on expected asset class return, expense ratio, and momentum, among other factors. Because of this, IBB is an excellent option for investors seeking exposure to the Health Care ETFs segment of the market. There are other additional ETFs in the space that investors could consider as well.
First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology ETF (ARCA:FBT) tracks NYSE Arca Biotechnology Index and the SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (ARCA:XBI) tracks S&amp;P Biotechnology Select Industry Index. First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology ETF has $1.16 billion in assets, SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF has $7.77 billion. FBT has an expense ratio of 0.56% and XBI charges 0.35%.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2312595/should-you-invest-in-the-ishares-biotechnology-etf-ibb?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-sector_etf-2312595">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Biotech

Large Cap

AMGN

REGN

VRTX

Should You Invest in the iShares Biotechnology ETF?

June closed on a high note for the stock market, with the S&amp;P 500, tracked by the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>), gaining 3.2%, despite significant disparities in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">sector and industry performances.</a>
The technology sector, as tracked by the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>), led the 11 S&amp;P 500 sectors in performance last month, surging 7.7% and achieving its strongest monthly gain this year. 
In stark contrast, utilities lagged, with the Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) dropping 6.3%, marking the worst month since September 2023.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Top Performing Industry ETFs In June</h3>
The iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IGV#NYSE">IGV</a>) rallied 11.3% last month, topping the rankings among industry ETFs. 
Hot on its heels was the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NYSE">SMH</a>), which climbed 8.4%, showcasing strong momentum in the semiconductor sector. 
Since hitting its low in October 2023, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF has rallied by an astounding 87%, and over 200% since October 2022, reflecting the spectacular growth in AI-driven stocks.
Securing the third spot in terms of monthly performance, the SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>) gained 4%. 
Within the software sector, standout performers included Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADBE#NASDAQ">ADBE</a>), which surged by 24.9%, CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) with a 22.1% increase, and Oracle Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>), up by 20%.
Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) led chipmakers with a 21% rise. Universal Display Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OLED#NYSE">OLED</a>) followed closely with a 19.7% increase, and Qorvo, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QRVO#NASDAQ">QRVO</a>) posted an 18% gain. 
Among chipmakers, Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), Universal Display Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OLED#NYSE">OLED</a>) and Qorvo, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QRVO#NASDAQ">QRVO</a>) led gains, with performances of 21%, 19.7% and 18%, respectively.
In the biotech arena, Scilex Holding Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCLX#NASDAQ">SCLX</a>) experienced a 78.8% spike, making it the top industry gainer. Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALNY#NASDAQ">ALNY</a>) surged by 63.7%, while Avidity Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RNA#NASDAQ">RNA</a>) saw a robust 52% increase.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Top Performing Industry ETFs By Inflows In June</h3>
Examining fund flows, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF has emerged as a top choice for investors, attracting over $1 billion according to Tradingview data, and achieving its ninth consecutive month of inflows. Year-to-date the fund has registered $4.60 billion in net inflows.
The iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF pulled in approximately $480 million in June, breaking a six-month streak of outflows and registering its highest monthly inflows since September 2022. Yet, its year-to-date net flows are still negative, down by $1.15 billion. 
The iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>) collected $148 million in inflows last month, reflecting strong investor interest. Another industry witnessing robust inflows was represented by the Global X Copper Miners ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COPX#NYSE">COPX</a>), which attracted about $130 million.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39577080/manufacturing-contracts-more-than-expected-in-june-putting-pressure-on-profitabilit">Manufacturing Contracts More Than Expected In June, &#8216;Putting Pressure On Profitability&#8217;: Yields Rise, Stocks Fall</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Sector ETFs

Tech

ADBE

ALNY

AVGO

COPX

CRWD

OLED

ORCL

QRVO

iShares FTSE NAREIT Residential PLUS Capped Index Fund

SCLX

iShares PHLX SOX Semiconductor Sector Index Fund

SOXX

Top Performing Industry ETFs In June: Software Leads Returns, Chipmakers Attract Most Inflows

Wall Street is experiencing a subdued and low volatility trading day Friday, despite the session coinciding with the &#8220;triple witching&#8221; day, with over $5.1 trillion of notional options exposure expiring, surpassing the previous record <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39435525/5-5-trillion-in-options-are-set-to-expire-on-triple-witching-friday-why-nvidia-coul">set in December 2023.</a>
Chipmakers continue to struggle in the aftermath of Thursday&#8217;s sell-off, suggesting that while the wave of profit-taking is easing, there is little sign of new buyers stepping in at these levels.
Nvidia Corp. is down 1.6%, poised to break an eight-week winning streak. The sector benchmark, the iShares Semiconductor ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NYSE">SOXX</a>), is witnessing its worst two-day performance since May 1.
The major indices and sectors remained flat, while biotech stocks showed the strongest performance among industries, with the iShares Biotechnology ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NASDAQ">IBB</a>) up 1.9%. Treasury yields were stable, with the 10-year at 4.26%.
On the macro front, S&amp;P Global reported the strongest growth in U.S. private sector activity in two <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39434041/us-private-sector-activity-exceeds-estimates-fastest-growth-in-2-years-will-the-fed-welcome-the-">years, surpassing analyst expectations.</a>
Gold saw a decline of 1.4%, reversing Thursday&#8217;s positive performance. Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) fell 1.8%, heading for its fifth consecutive session of losses, marking the longest losing streak since October 2023.
Oil prices retreated below $81 per barrel, ending a streak of three consecutive sessions of gains.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Performance In Major US Indices</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Major Indices</td>
<td>Price</td>
<td>1-day %chg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,019.94</td>
<td>0.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>39,140.67</td>
<td>0.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>5,464.09</td>
<td>-0.2%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>19,694.57</td>
<td>-0.3%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Updated at 12:55 p.m. ET</figcaption></figure>
According to&nbsp;<a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>&nbsp;data:
<ul>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>)&nbsp;was 0.4% lower to $544.76.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>)&nbsp;was 0.2% lower to $391.50.</li>
<li>The tech-heavy&nbsp;Invesco QQQ Trust&nbsp;(ARCA:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/qqq" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/qqq" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a>QQQ) was 0.1% lower to $480.81.</li>
<li>Sector-wise, the&nbsp;Communication Services&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLC#NYSE">XLC</a>)&nbsp;outperformed, up by 0.4%, while the&nbsp;Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLF#NYSE">XLF</a>) lagged, falling 0.5%.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Serepta Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRPT#NASDAQ">SRPT</a>) rocketed by over 30% after the company announced expanded U.S. FDA approval of ELEVIDYS for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SRPT/news" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patients ages 4 and above</a>.</li>
<li>Hertz Global Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HTZ#NASDAQ">HTZ</a>) rose over 14%, mimicking Thursday&#8217;s move, after the car rental company upsized its bond offering to $1 billion to finance a fleet refresh. </li>
<li>FactSet Research Systems Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FDS#NYSE">FDS</a>) rose 4% following stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings. CarMax Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMX#NYSE">KMX</a>) was 1% higher in reactions to quarterly results.</li>
</ul>
Read now: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39423623/worlds-biggest-s-p-500-etf-bleeds-outflows-why-isnt-the-market-crashing-corrected">World&#8217;s Biggest S&amp;P 500 ETF Bleeds Outflows: Why Isn&#8217;t The Market Crashing? (CORRECTED)</a>
Photo created using artificial intelligence via MidJourney.

Mid Cap

Bonds

Commodities

Treasuries

Econ #s

Economics

$BTC

SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust

SRPT

Stocks Stall As Chip Sector Struggles To Rebound; Dollar Eyes 7-Week Peak, Gold, Bitcoin Retreat: What's Driving Markets Friday?

As April comes to a close, it&#8217;s time to compile the rankings for the top-performing sector and industry exchange-traded <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">funds of the month.</a>
Taking a broader look at the stock market, the S&amp;P 500 Index, represented by the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>), finished April on a downturn, declining by approximately 3%. This marks the end of a five-month streak of gains.
Similarly, the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100, tracked by the Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), experienced a 3.5% decline.
Among large-cap indices, blue-chip stocks showed slight underperformance, with the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) slipping by 4.5%.
Small-cap stocks, represented by the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>), plummeted by over 6%, marking their worst performance since October 2023.
Overall, it has been a challenging month for the stock market, primarily due to inflation surprises surpassing expectations. This has led to a recalibration of market expectations regarding potential Federal Reserve rate cuts.
Additionally, complex global geopolitical tensions have emerged, notably between Israel and Iran, alongside the ongoing issue in the Gaza Strip.
May is anticipated to start with a crucial event as investors await the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/macro-notification/24/04/38526201/is-hawkish-shift-on-inflation-imminent-wall-street-analysts-traders-brace-for-fed-impa">(FOMC) meeting on Wednesday. </a>
While no interest rate changes are expected, all eyes will be on Fed Chair Jerome Powell&#8216;s remarks to assess the Fed&#8217;s stance in response to recent inflation surprises.
Read also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/macro-notification/24/04/38491988/federal-reserve-meeting-preview-high-interest-rates-need-more-time-to-work-bank-of-ame">Federal Reserve Meeting Preview: High Interest Rates &#8216;Need More Time To Work,&#8217; Bank of America Says</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Performance Of Sector ETFs In April 2024</h2>
At the sector level, only the utilities sector managed to avoid losses for the month, rising by 2.1%.
The largest stock contributors to the utilities&#8217; performance in April are NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEE#NYSE">NEE</a>), The Southern Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SO#NYSE">SO</a>), Dominion Energy, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/D#NYSE">D</a>) and NRG Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NRG#NYSE">NRG</a>) which showed monthly gains between 4% and 8%. 
Energy stocks remained broadly stable, while the other nine S&amp;P 500&#8217;s sectors showcased losses.
Real estate experienced the worst performance, down by over 7%, dragged down by its high sensitivity to interest rates, as Treasury yields increase across the board during the month. 
Following real estate, the technology and healthcare sectors also showed poor performance in April.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">April&#8217;s Best And Worst Sector ETFs: Utilities Lead, Real Estate Lags</h4>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Sector</th>
<th>April 2024 performance</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>)</td>
<td>2.06%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Energy&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>)</td>
<td>0.01%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Consumer Staples&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>)</td>
<td>-1.11%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Industrials&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLI#NYSE">XLI</a>)</td>
<td>-3.23%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Consumer Discretionary&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLY#NYSE">XLY</a>)</td>
<td>-3.68%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLF#NYSE">XLF</a>)</td>
<td>-3.85%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Materials&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLB#NYSE">XLB</a>)</td>
<td>-4.13%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLC#NYSE">XLC</a>)</td>
<td>-4.24%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>)</td>
<td>-4.78%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Health Care&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>)</td>
<td>-4.85%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Real Estate&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLRE#NYSE">XLRE</a>)</td>
<td>-7.83%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Data as of Apr. 30, 2024 2:50 p.m. EDT</figcaption></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Performance Of Industry ETFs In April 2024</h2>
Based on the industry ETF list provided by BlackRock Inc.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) iShares, only five out of the 25 industries managed to report gains in April. Among them, miners did well across the board, with silver, copper, and gold mining stocks reporting robust gains. 
Standout contributors to the mining industry&#8217;s outperformance in April were Pan American Silver Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PAAS#NYSE">PAAS</a>), up over 20%, Newmont Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEM#NYSE">NEM</a>), up 14%, Anglo American plc (OTCPK: AAUKF), up over 40%
Energy producers also managed to end the month in the green.
On the bottom side of the industry rankings, homebuilders, transportation, biotech stocks, digital infrastructure and real estate all report losses between 7% and 9.6% in April.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ETF Name</th>
<th>Performance</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>iShares MSCI Global Silver and Metals Miners ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SLVP#NYSE">SLVP</a>)</td>
<td>12.11%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Copper and Metals Mining ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COPX#NYSE">COPX</a>)</td>
<td>9.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares MSCI Global Gold Miners ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RING#NYSE">RING</a>)</td>
<td>5.93%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares MSCI Global Metals &amp; Mining Producers ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PICK#NYSE">PICK</a>)</td>
<td>2.81%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares MSCI Global Energy Producers ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FILL#NYSE">FILL</a>)</td>
<td>2.46%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#NYSE">ITA</a>)</td>
<td>-1.16%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Oil &amp; Gas Exploration &amp; Production ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEO#NYSE">IEO</a>)</td>
<td>-1.37%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Residential and Multisector Real Estate ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REZ#NYSE">REZ</a>)</td>
<td>-1.66%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Lithium Miners and Producers ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ILIT#NYSE">ILIT</a>)</td>
<td>-3.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Broker-Dealers &amp; Securities Exchange ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IAI#NYSE">IAI</a>)</td>
<td>-3.74%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Financial Services ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYG#NYSE">IYG</a>)</td>
<td>-3.88%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IGM#NYSE">IGM</a>)</td>
<td>-4.37%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Semiconductor ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NYSE">SOXX</a>)</td>
<td>-4.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Healthcare Providers ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHF#NYSE">IHF</a>)</td>
<td>-4.79%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Insurance ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IAK#NYSE">IAK</a>)</td>
<td>-4.85%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Regional Banks ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IAT#NYSE">IAT</a>)</td>
<td>-5.11%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHE#NYSE">IHE</a>)</td>
<td>-5.38%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Oil Equipment &amp; Services ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEZ#NYSE">IEZ</a>)</td>
<td>-5.45%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Mortgage Real Estate ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REM#NYSE">REM</a>)</td>
<td>-5.57%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Medical Devices ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHI#NYSE">IHI</a>)</td>
<td>-5.75%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Global Timber &amp; Forestry ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WOOD#NYSE">WOOD</a>)</td>
<td>-6.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IGV#NYSE">IGV</a>)</td>
<td>-6.76%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Digital Infrastructure and Real Estate ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IDGT#NYSE">IDGT</a>)</td>
<td>-7.12%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>)</td>
<td>-7.23%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Transportation ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYT#NYSE">IYT</a>)</td>
<td>-8.34%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares U.S. Home Construction ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITB#NYSE">ITB</a>)</td>
<td>-9.60%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Data as of Apr. 30, 2024 3:15 p.m. EDT</figcaption></figure>
Now read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38497224/ai-data-centers-drive-electricity-demand-goldman-sachs-picks-16-stocks-to-play-the-">AI Data Centers Drive Electricity Demand: Goldman Sachs Picks 16 Stocks To Play The Trend</a>
Image generated using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

REIT

Specialty ETFs

Small Cap

Federal Reserve

Real Estate

AAUKF

FILL

iShares Dow Jones US Broker Dealers Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Insurance Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Regional Banks Index Fund

iShares U.S. Digital Infrastructure and Real Estate ETF

IDGT

iShares Dow Jones US Oil & Gas Exploration & Production Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Oil Equipment & Services Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Pharmaceuticals Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Health Care Provides Index Fund

ILIT

iShares Dow Jones US Aerospace & Defense Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Homenstruction Index Fund

iShares Trust Dow Jones US Financial Services Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones Transportation Average Index Fund

PAAS

PICK

iShares FTSE NAREIT Mortgage PLUS Capped Index Fund

RING

SLVP

iShares S&P Global Timber & Forestry Index Fund

WOOD

XLRE

Select Sector SPDR-Consumer Discretionary

April Showers On Wall Street:  Miners, Utilities Emerge As Bright Spots In Gloomy Market

Markets are primed for a revival in mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;A) in 2024 following the worst performance in almost a decade for deal-making in 2023.
Equity and M&amp;A experts believe that, after a year beset by volatile markets and rising interest rates, 2024 offers improving conditions for takeover deals and corporate mergers.
&#8220;Capital markets were not as open or freewheeling, and 2023 did not happen the way we thought it would," said Tom Miles, Head of Americas M&amp;A at Morgan Stanley. 
&#8220;The market forces are in place that make an eventual return inevitable. It's not a question of if&nbsp;but when.&#8221;
One piece of the M&amp;A jigsaw that was largely missing last year was private equity (PE) firms. These players use leveraged buyout methods to take poorly performing publicly traded companies private. The goal is to exit via an IPO or sell off the assets at a profit.
Pitchbook analyst Tim Clarke noted how higher interest rates made it more costly for PE firms to engage in deals.
&#8220;PE's share of M&amp;A has no doubt been constrained by reduced access to leverage,&#8221; he said. During 2023, PE involvement was the lowest total recorded going back to 2005.
Overall volumes of M&amp;A dropped to $2.4 trillion in 2023, down from $3.1 trillion in 2022 and $5.2 trillion at its 2021 peak.
But analysts at Morgan Stanley expect both corporate and PE deal-making to be stronger in 2024 after the fourth-quarter rally on equity markets in 2023.
&#8220;Corporate balance sheets are strong, financing markets are improving and CEO confidence, which is closely correlated with M&amp;A activity, is climbing,&#8221; said Miles.
Which sectors, then, can investors expect to lead this increase in M&amp;A activity. There&#8217;s agreement here on three sectors that appear ripe for takeovers to flourish in 2024.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology — Artificial Intelligence (AI)</h2>
Throughout the latter half of 2023, it has become clear that AI will be a major market theme in 2024 and beyond. The burgeoning technology is being identified through growing numbers of potential use cases as the most important technological advance in a generation.
Additionally, there is no shortage of start-up companies being pursued for partnerships with the Mega Techs. Could this be the year that sees Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) make an offer for OpenAI, with which it already has a major investment and development partnership.
It&#8217;s unlikely, given the regulatory scrutiny the partnership has come under in Europe and the UK, and Microsoft has stated that it isn&#8217;t seeking ownership of OpenAI.
But investors can gain exposure to potential game-changing deals through the many exchange traded funds that track the technology sector.
The iShares U.S. Technology ETF&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYW#NYSE">IYW</a>) main three holdings are Microsoft, Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), while the Global X Robotics &amp; Artificial Intelligence ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BOTZ#NYSE">BOTZ</a>) follows key listed AI and robotics firms.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36759292/ai-regulation-did-the-eu-just-deliver-the-future-of-ai-directly-into-the-hands-of-the-us">AI Regulation &#8211; Did The EU Just Deliver The Future Of AI Directly Into The Hands Of The US?</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Healthcare — Biotech</h2>
Pharmaceuticals stocks had a mixed 2023, and it was those companies cashing in on the success of diabetes/weight-loss drugs that enjoyed the significant gains.
That left many large drugmakers at a disadvantage, and they could be looking to set this straight in 2024 with deals to acquire biotech firms already in development and testing stages of the next potential blockbuster treatments.
&#8220;It's a very big industry, and because biotech is so research-intensive, consolidation may need to happen,&#8221; said John Collins, head of global M&amp;A at Morgan Stanley.
There are several companies in the sector that analysts and market commentators see as potential takeover targets. 
Krystal Biotech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRYS#NASDAQ">KRYS</a>) is a potential target, with a pipeline of approved and developmental gene therapies as the prize.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="750" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/29083933/newplot-49.png" alt="" class="wp-image-196908" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/29083933/newplot-49.png 750w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/29083933/newplot-49-300x260.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>
Ventyx Biosciences (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VTYX#NASDAQ">VTYX</a>) could also be taken out. Its near penny stock status and small $120 million market cap are attractive, and its founder has sold a previous enterprise. As yet, however, the company has nothing in its pipeline beyond phase two trials.
The iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>) holds Vertex Pharma (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRTX#NASDAQ">VRTX</a>) and Regeneron Pharma (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>) as its top two holdings, but their $100 billion-plus market caps make them more likely to be acquirers than targets.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Energy — Return Of The Mega Deals?</h2>
In the last half of 2024, the markets watched COP28&#8217;s dedication to energy transition. And yet, ExxonMobil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) bought Pioneer Natural Resources (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PXD#NYSE">PXD</a>) for $60 billion, and Chevron (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) bought Hess Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HES#NYSE">HES</a>) for $53 billion.
&#8220;While COP 28 resulted in the &#8216;UAE Consensus&#8217; to transition away from fossil fuels, there should, nevertheless, continue to be, consolidation in the oil and gas sector in 2024,&#8221; said Sarah Jones, global head of corporate at Clifford Chance.
Again, many of the companies held by energy sector ETFs are likely to be those on the acquisition trail. The top three holdings in the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>) are Exxon, Chevron and ConocoPhillips (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COP#NYSE">COP</a>).
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Small Caps </h2>
Any increase in M&amp;A activity could be felt most keenly within the smaller listed companies. They can perform relatively cheap mergers without loading up on finance — or agree to all-share deals that circumvent the need for financing. 
Also, larger companies often pursue non-organic growth strategies by making smaller, bolt-on acquisitions, rather than going for large deals.
Thus, this year could see a bounce for the Russell 2000 index of small-cap companies, tracked by the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>).
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/01/36786267/exclusive-teslas-humanoid-robot-was-a-fake-and-elon-musk-doesnt-deliver-at-all-says">EXCLUSIVE: Tesla&#8217;s Humanoid Robot &#8216;Was A Fake,&#8217; Elon Musk &#8216;Doesn&#8217;t Deliver At All,&#8217; Says Analyst</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Small Business

AAPL

AMZN

BOTZ

GOOGL

iShares Dow Jones US Technology Sector Index Fund

KRYS

MSFT

VTYX

AI, Biotech, Energy Sectors Expect M&A Revival For 2024

Live On CNBC, Jason Snipe's Contrarian Idea: Biotech; Names IShares Biotechnology ETF

The early 2024 sell-off is intensifying on Wall Street, with all major stock averages in the red on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets">the second trading day of 2024</a>. 
The tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 plunged by 1% at noon in New York, extending its two-day slump to 2.6%. Wednesday&#8217;s declines spare no mercy for the blue-chip stocks of the Dow Jones, which managed to avoid losses on Tuesday, causing value-related stocks<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36471715/tech-sell-off-triggers-market-reset-value-stocks-reach-7-month-high-versus-growth"> to fall as well. </a>
The S&amp;P 500 index is at risk of closing its third consecutive day in the red, marking the worst streak since late October.
Small-cap stocks, the stars of the late 2023 rally, are underperforming, with the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) plummeting by 1.6%. The CBOE Volatility Index or VIX, popularly known as the market fear gauge, is up 6.5% for the day. 
Richmond Federal Reserve President Tom Barkin cautioned the markets not to be overly confident about a soft landing for the U.S. economy, while also not ruling <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36472187/soft-landing-dont-bet-on-it-just-yet-feds-barkin-indicates-further-rate-hikes-possible">out additional rate hikes.</a>
Economic data is broadly aligned with expectations, as the ISM manufacturing PMI came in at 47.4 in December, slightly higher than the expected 47.1, and job openings totaled 8.79 million in November, compared to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/01/36472955/us-manufacturing-takes-a-hit-longest-downturn-since-early-2000s-yet-exceeds-decem">the anticipated 8.85 million.</a>
The U.S. dollar index rallied by 1.3%, marking its strongest daily performance since early March 2023, while Treasury yields remain mostly unchanged.
Explosions in Iran that resulted in the deaths of over 100 people at a memorial — and reports of protests disrupting output at Libya&#8217;s 300,000-barrel-a-day Sharara oilfield — have fueled an oil rally, with WTI rising by 2.5%.
Precious metals have taken a hit, with gold down by 1.3% and silver down by 3%. Cryptocurrencies have also experienced significant losses, with Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) falling by 5%, amid reports of a delay in the SEC&#8217;s approval of Bitcoin ETFs.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wednesday&#8217;s Performance In US Major Indices, ETFs</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Index</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>37,454.25</td>
<td>-0.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>4,708.05</td>
<td>-0.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>16,382.80</td>
<td>-1.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>1,979.28</td>
<td>-1.8%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) is 0.8% lower to $469.02, the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) eased 0.7% and the Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) tumbled 1% to $398.69, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro data.</a>
Sector-wise, the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>) is the only one trading in the green, up by 0.9%. Rate-sensitive sectors such as the Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLRE#NYSE">XLRE</a>), the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLY#NYSE">XLY</a>), and the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>) underperformed, down 1.6%, 1.4% and 1% respectively. 
Among industries, the VanEck Oil Services ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OIH#NYSE">OIH</a>) outperformed, up 1%. Solar stocks, as tracked by the Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>), are sharply lower, down 4.5%.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wednesday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h2>
<ul>
<li>Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) plummeted 3.4%, marking a four-day losing streak following its loss of the top spot in electric vehicle sales to China&#8217;s BYD.</li>
<li>Enphase Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENPH#NASDAQ">ENPH</a>) tumbled over 7% on a broader solar sector sell-off, marking the worst performance within the S&amp;P 500. </li>
<li>SoFi Technologies (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOFI#NASDAQ">SOFI</a>) slid 13% after Keefe, Bruyette &amp; Woods&#8217; downgrade from Market Perform to Underperform rating and a price target cut from $7.50 to $6.50. </li>
<li>Blackstone Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BX#NYSE">BX</a>) fell 4% after Goldman Sachs downgraded the stock from Buy to Neutral. </li>
</ul>
Read now: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/01/36469889/a-glitch-in-the-rally-cruise-operators-and-chip-stocks-targeted-in-profit-taking">A Glitch In The Rally? Cruise Operators And Chip Stocks Targeted In Profit Taking</a>
Photo via Shutterstock.

ENPH

PYPL

SOFI

TSLA

US Stocks Eye 3-Day Slump; Tech, Crypto Sell-Off Deepens, Oil, Dollar Rebound: What's Driving Markets Wednesday?

Wall Street kicked off 2024 on a weaker note, with the S&amp;P 500 dipping by 0.5%, and the Nasdaq 100 experiencing a 1.4% decline in midday<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets"> trading in New York</a>.
The tech sector played a notable role in dragging down the broader stock market performance. Interestingly, blue-chip and small-cap stocks managed to dodge substantial losses, showing marginal gains. Among the prominent &#8220;Magnificent Seven&#8221; stocks, six were in the red, with Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) being the sole exception, maintaining a flat performance for the day.
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) took a notable hit, tumbling by 3%, marking its most challenging session since early September, following a downgrade from Barclays. NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and other semiconductor stocks, tracked by the iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>), also experienced a significant drop of 2.8% for the day. 
This decline was triggered by a White House request to ASML Holdings N.V., Europe&#8217;s chip giant, to halt some product exports to China, just weeks before the planned restriction
The U.S. dollar displayed a robust surge, while Treasury yields moved higher by about seven basis points across the yield curve.
In the commodities market, oil had a volatile day, initially rising by as much as 3% before giving up those gains. Gold, on the other hand, remained steady, while silver saw a slight 0.4% dip. Furthermore, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) crossed the 45,000 mark, driven by growing optimism regarding the potential approval of a Bitcoin ETF by Jan. 10.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tuesday's Performance In US Major Indices, ETFs</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Index</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Change %</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,050.18</td>
<td>0.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>37,737.65</td>
<td>0.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>4,747.50</td>
<td>-0.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>16,586.14</td>
<td>-1.4%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) was 0.4% lower to $473.11, the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) was 0.2% higher and&nbsp;the Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) fell 1.4% to $403.81, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro data.</a>
Sector-wise, the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>) outperformed, up by 1.3%. The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>) lagged behind, down 2.4%. 
Among industries, biotech-linked stocks outperformed, with the iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>) up 2.3%. Semiconductors sank, with the VanEck Semiconductors ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NYSE">SMH</a>) falling 2.2%. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tuesday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h2>
<ul>
<li>Moderna Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) rallied over 16%, on track for its best session since late 2022, after Oppenheimer upgrade the stock amid improved outlook in top-line sales. </li>
<li>Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>) experienced a nearly 10% decline in its stock price as the company&#8217;s fourth-quarter deliveries fell below analyst estimates. </li>
<li>Other notable movers included Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCLH#NYSE">NCLH</a>) down 6.4%, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RCL#NYSE">RCL</a>) down 5.1%, SentinelOne Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/S#NYSE">S</a>) down 5.8%, Maravai Lifesciences Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRVI#NASDAQ">MRVI</a>) up 7.6%. </li>
</ul>
Read now: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/01/36454437/semiconductor-stocks-tumble-wiping-out-100-billion-amid-us-china-trade-tensions-rocky-start-to-2024">Semiconductor Stocks Tumble, Wiping Out $100 Billion Amid US-China Trade Tensions: Rocky Start To 2024</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

MRVI

NCLH

RIVN

Tech Drags On Wall Street As 2024 Kicks Off; Dollar and Treasury Yields Surge: What's Driving Markets Tuesday?

Piper Sandler Cos (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PIPR#NYSE">PIPR</a>) has identified three biotech stocks as its &#8220;top picks&#8221; for 2024. The investment bank is signaling a potential turnaround for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech">sector next year</a>. 
As illustrated in the data below, the biotech sector is lagging behind the broader U.S. equity market, as indicated by the performance of the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>).The iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>) is a popular benchmark to gauge the performance of biotech <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets">equities in the U.S.</a> 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="650" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/29064753/IBB-vs-SPY.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-171176" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/29064753/IBB-vs-SPY.jpeg 650w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/29064753/IBB-vs-SPY-300x300.jpeg 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/29064753/IBB-vs-SPY-150x150.jpeg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /></figure>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/23/12/36412384/quality-us-equities-lay-path-to-gains-in-2024-3-etfs-to-consider">Quality US Equities Lay Path To Gains In 2024: 3 ETFs To Consider</a>
As <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/12/29/piper-sandler-reveals-its-top-3-biotech-stock-picks-for-2024.html">reported</a> by CNBC, Piper Sandler analysts Edward Tenthoff and Thad Barney remain optimistic about the biotech industry. They see attractive valuations and upcoming product launches ahead. Here are three of their top picks from the sector.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals: Unlocking the Potential of Gene Therapies</h2>
Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARWR#NASDAQ">ARWR</a>) retains Piper Sandler&#8217;s favor, with an overweight rating reaffirmed by analysts. The company&#8217;s focus on phase 3 trials for plozasiran, targeting familial chylomicronemia syndrome and severe hypertriglyceridemia, has garnered attention. 
Additionally, cardiovascular outcome trials for plozasiran or zodasiran could further solidify their impact. GlobalData projects sales of these therapies to reach $651 million and $399 million by 2030 and 2029, respectively. Despite a year-to-date share price decline of nearly 20%, Piper Sandler anticipates a 90% increase over the next 12 months.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Legend Biotech: Carvykti&#8217;s Rise to Prominence</h2>
Legend Biotech Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LEGN#NASDAQ">LEGN</a>) emerges as another top pick, buoyed by its Carvykti drug for adult bone marrow cancer treatment. Piper Sandler describes it as &#8220;best in class,&#8221; with demand surpassing supply. 
Predicting a substantial revenue surge from $506 million in 2023 to $1.05 billion in 2024, the investment bank foresees global supply reaching 10,000 doses annually by 2025, potentially pushing peak revenue beyond $5 billion. 
Legend Biotech&#8217;s robust CAR-T Cell therapy pipeline and recent collaboration with Novartis contribute to Piper Sandler&#8217;s bullish outlook, expecting a 53.3% increase in shares over the next year.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Alnylam Pharmaceuticals: A Focus on Neurological Disorders</h2>
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALNY#NASDAQ">ALNY</a>) completes Piper Sandler&#8217;s top picks, with emphasis on its phase 3 trials for Amvuttra, a drug targeting polyneuropathy. Forecasts predict a sales jump from $550 million in 2023 to $1.13 billion in 2025. Alnylam&#8217;s commitment to addressing severe hypertension and Alzheimer&#8217;s disease through ongoing trials further adds to its appeal. 
Despite a year-to-date share price dip of nearly 16%, Piper Sandler sees a 10.3% potential upside over the next 12 months, projecting a share price of $217.
With the biotech sector showing signs of recovery and potential benefits from expected U.S. Federal Reserve interest rate cuts in the upcoming year, these selections offer attractive prospects for investors looking for growth possibilities in 2024.
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/23/12/36281714/as-2023-comes-to-a-close-and-updates-are-expected-from-many-companies-are-these-three-unique-biot">As 2023 Comes To A Close And Updates Are Expected From Many Companies, Are These Three Unique Biotech Names On Your Watchlist?</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

ARWR

LEGN

PIPR

Top Biotech Picks For 2024: Piper Sandler Foresees Potential Sector Comeback

The U.S. stock market saw modest gains in a session characterized by low trading volumes following the Christmas holiday. The S&amp;P 500 Index gained 0.3% during midday trading in New York, eyeing its all-time highs, which are 1% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets">above the current levels.</a>
Tech stocks within the Nasdaq 100 index experienced a slight uptick of 0.4%, while blue-chip stocks rose by 0.2%.
Small-cap stocks, as represented by the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>), continued to outperform large-cap indices, extending the market narrative from December.
The dollar saw a marginal 0.2% decrease, while Treasury yields remained stable. Gold recorded a 0.3% increase, reaching $2,060 per ounce, while Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) experienced a 3% decline.
Oil prices rallied, with WTI crude prices surging by over 3% to $76 per barrel on Tuesday, driven in part by intensified disruptions in Red Sea trade.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tuesday&#8217;s Performance In US Major Indices, ETFs</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Major Indices &amp; ETFs</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Change</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,048.93</td>
<td>+0.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>16,851.14</td>
<td>+0.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>4,769.81</td>
<td>+0.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>37,481.22</td>
<td>+0.3%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) was 0.3% higher to&nbsp;$474.28, the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) was 0.1% higher to $374.41&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) inched up 0.3% to $409.02, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro data.</a>
Sector-wise, staples and utilities outperformed, with both the&nbsp;Consumer Staples&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and the Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) up 0.9%. 
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLY#NYSE">XLY</a>) was the only sector in the red, down 0.3%. 
Among industries, the VanEck Oil Services ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OIH#NYSE">OIH</a>) led gains, up 2%, while airlines lagged behind, with the U.S. Global Jets ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JETS#NYSE">JETS</a>) falling 0.4%. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tuesday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h2>
<ul>
<li>Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) shares rose 4.4% after announcing its $25-billion investment plan in Israel, with $3.2 billion in government incentives secured.</li>
<li>Plug Power Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLUG#NASDAQ">PLUG</a>) rose nearly 5% after the Biden administration unveiled tax credits to hydrogen producers on Friday. </li>
<li>Shares of Manchester United (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MANU#NYSE">MANU</a>) surged close to 3% after British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe committed to purchasing 25% of the club&#8217;s Class B shares and as much as 25% of its Class A shares at a price of $33 each.</li>
<li>Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) eased 0.2% after the White House decided Tuesday to uphold&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/23/12/36386282/white-house-declines-to-overturn-apple-watch-ban-analyst-estimates-impact-at-300m-or-more">sales ban on&nbsp;Apple. </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/aapl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a></li>
<li>Shares of Carnival Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCL#NYSE">CCL</a>) and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCLH#NYSE">NCLH</a>) dipped by 2.5% and 2.6%, respectively, retracting after a period of robust gains.</li>
</ul>
Read now: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/23/12/36384873/whats-going-on-with-manchester-united-stock-today">What&#8217;s Going On With Manchester United Stock Today?</a>
Photo via Shutterstock.

INTC

JETS

MANU

PLUG

Wall Street Sees Post-Holiday Gains, Oil Rallies, Intel Leads: What's Driving Markets Tuesday?

The S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq 100 indices are on the verge of achieving an impressive eight consecutive weeks of gains following a more significant decline than expected in the Federal Reserve&#8217;s favored inflation gauge in November, the Personal Consumption Expenditures <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/23/12/36360990/feds-favorite-inflation-gauge-cools-more-than-expected-cementing-rate-cut-expecta">(PCE) price index.</a>
For the S&amp;P 500, this marks its longest run of positive weekly closes since September 2017, while for the Nasdaq 100, it&#8217;s the longest since January 2019.
Additionally, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/23/12/36365132/consumer-sentiment-upgraded-home-sales-plummet-what-economic-data-means-for-feds-next-move">economic data unveiled on Friday</a> showed consumer spending to be softer than anticipated, along with a positive revision to the Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index and durable goods orders that surpassed expectations.
The iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>), tracking small-cap stocks, continues to outshine its large-cap counterparts.
Notably, both the U.S. Dollar Index, tracked by the Invesco DB USD Index Bullish Fund ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UUP#NYSE">UUP</a>), and Treasury yields remained steady throughout the day.
Gold, represented by the SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>), experienced a modest 0.4% uptick, reaching $2,050 per ounce, while Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) recorded a slight 0.5% decline. WTI oil maintained its position at $74 per barrel.
Chart of The Day: Fed&#8217;s Preferred Gauge of Inflation Further Cools In November
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="495" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/22133717/USPCEPIAC_2023-12-22_17-49-50_ea955-1-1024x495.png" alt="" class="wp-image-167772" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/22133717/USPCEPIAC_2023-12-22_17-49-50_ea955-1-1024x495.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/22133717/USPCEPIAC_2023-12-22_17-49-50_ea955-1-300x145.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/22133717/USPCEPIAC_2023-12-22_17-49-50_ea955-1-768x372.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/22133717/USPCEPIAC_2023-12-22_17-49-50_ea955-1-1536x743.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/22133717/USPCEPIAC_2023-12-22_17-49-50_ea955-1.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Performance In US Major Indices, ETFs</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Index</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Percentage Change (%)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,037.73</td>
<td>1.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>16,804.06</td>
<td>0.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>4,761.14</td>
<td>0.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>37,433.56</td>
<td>0.2%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) was 0.3% higher to&nbsp;$474.28, the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) was 0.1% higher to $374.41&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) inched up 0.3% to $409.02, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro data.</a>
Sector-wise, staples and utilities outperformed, with both the&nbsp;Consumer Staples&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and the Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) up 0.9%. 
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLY#NYSE">XLY</a>) was the only sector in the red, down 0.3%. 
Among industries, the iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>) rose 3.6%, followed by the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GDX#NYSE">GDX</a>). 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h2>
<ul>
<li>ANSYS, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ANSS#NASDAQ">ANSS</a>) surged by 12% following a Reuters report that the company is considering various options, including a possible sale. This decision comes in response to takeover interest from potential buyers, as disclosed by sources familiar with the matter.</li>
<li>NIKE Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKE#NYSE">NKE</a>) fell 10%, after the company missed revenue estimates last quarter and announced weaker-than-expected guidance due to declining sales from Greater China. </li>
<li>Brystol Myers Squib (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) rose 2.2% after the company agreed to buy Karuna Therapeutics (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRTX#NASDAQ">KRTX</a>) for $14 billion in cash, gaining a promising experimental schizophrenia drug. KRTX rose 47%. </li>
<li>Moderna Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) surged 5%, on track for its sixth straight week of gains. </li>
</ul>
Read now: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/23/12/36366903/is-lower-inflation-a-green-light-for-2024-interest-rate-cuts-markets-are-ending-the-year-surprised">Is Lower Inflation A Green Light For 2024 Interest Rate Cuts? Markets Are Ending The Year &#8216;Surprised,&#8217; CIO Says</a>
Photo via Shutterstock.

Macro Economic Events

Currency ETFs

ANSS

KRTX

PowerShares DB US Dollar Index Bullish Fund

S&P 500, Nasdaq 100 Aim For 8th Week Of Gains As Fed's Inflation Gauge Cools: What's Driving Markets Friday?

On Thursday, Wall Street rebounded into positive territory, following a brief dip experienced on Wednesday. At midday trading New York time, all major stock indices were trading in the green as traders prepared for the final trading<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets"> week of the year.</a>
The S&amp;P 500 made a modest 0.3% gain, but its equal-weighted counterpart, the Invesco S&amp;P 500 Equal Weight ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RSP#NYSE">RSP</a>), outperformed with a 0.5% increase. The Dow also edged up by 0.3%.
Tech stocks within the Nasdaq 100 surged by 0.5%, while small-cap stocks continued to outperform, with the Russell 2000 gaining 1%.
Long-term bond yields saw a slight increase, with the popular iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLT#NASDAQ">TLT</a>) declining by 0.6%.
The U.S. dollar, as monitored through the Invesco DB USD Index Bullish Fund ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UUP#NYSE">UUP</a>), fell by 0.4%, revisiting its yearly lows, in response to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/23/12/36342747/thursdays-economic-digest-q3-gdp-revised-downward-jobless-claims-hold-steady-phil">weaker-than-expected economic data</a>. The U.S. economy expanded at an annualized rate of 4.9% in the third quarter, down from the previous estimate of a 5.2% increase.
Gold, tracked by the SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>), saw a 0.5% surge, while silver gained 0.8% in reaction to the weakening dollar. Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) remained stable.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thursday&#8217;s Performance In US Major Indices, ETFs</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Index</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Percentage Change (%)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,000.71</td>
<td>1.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>16,637.75</td>
<td>0.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>4,715.85</td>
<td>0.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>37,197.33</td>
<td>0.3%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) was 0.4% higher to $469.90, the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) was 0.3% higher to $372.01 and the Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) inched up 0.6% to $405.34, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro data.</a>
Sector-wise, discretionary outperformed, with the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLY#NYSE">XLY</a>) up 0.8%. On the negative side, the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLB#NYSE">XLB</a>) and the Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) were both 0.3% lower. 
Among industries, solar and semiconductors were notable gainers, with the Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) and the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NYSE">SMH</a>) up 3.9% and 2%, respectively. REITs lagged, with the Vanguard Real Estate (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VNQ#NYSE">VNQ</a>) down 1%. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thursday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h2>
<ul>
<li>Carnival Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCL#NYSE">CCL</a>) rose 6.4%, as the company reported better-than-expected earnings and revenue in the last quarter.</li>
<li>Shares of other cruise companies also experienced a surge. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RCL#NYSE">RCL</a>) shares climbed almost 4%, while Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCLH#NYSE">NCLH</a>) saw a 5% increase.</li>
<li>Micron Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>) rose over 7% after posting better-than-expected results last quarter. In response, other chipmakers also gained. Shares of Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) rose over 2.5%, while Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) inched up 1%. </li>
<li>MP Materials Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MP#NYSE">MP</a>) rocketed 9%, topping the Russell 1000&#8217;s gainers. </li>
<li>Paychex Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PAYX#NASDAQ">PAYX</a>) tumbled over 6% after missing earnings estimate. </li>
<li>Warner Bros Discovery Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>) and Paramount Global (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PARA#NASDAQ">PARA</a>) fell 4% and 3.4%, respectively, after Ben Barringer, a technology analyst at Quilter Cheviot, stated the merger between these two companies will likely worsen their financial profile. </li>
</ul>
Read now: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/23/12/36346989/micron-technology-guidance-reflects-strong-pricing-rebound-10-analysts-deep-dive-in">Micron Technology Guidance Reflects Strong Pricing Rebound: 10 Analysts Deep Dive Into Q1 Earnings</a>
 Photo via Shutterstock.

PARA

PAYX

iShares Trust Barclays 20+ Year Treasury Bond Fund

US Stocks Bounce; Chipmakers, Cruise Lines Lead, Dollar Falls: What's Driving Markets Thursday?

Stocks inched higher during midday trading in New York on Wednesday, with the momentum carrying over from the previous day when the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/23/12/36305091/nasdaq-100-hits-record-high-set-for-best-annual-performance-since-1999-tech-boom">achieved fresh record highs.</a>
The percentage of S&amp;P 500 stocks trading above the 50-day moving average has surged to 90%, reaching its peak for the year.
Small-cap stocks, as tracked by the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>), continue to outperform large-cap counterparts, boosting their month-to-date performance to 12.5%, the strongest since November 2020.
Treasury yields remained relatively stable, with the 10-year yield at 3.9% and the 30-year yield hovering around 4%. The dollar has seen a 0.2% increase.
Among commodities, gold dipped by 0.4%, while silver gained 1%. WTI crude oil remained flat at $74.
The standout performer of the day is Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), which saw a 3.5% increase. James Seyffart, an ETF research analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, reported BlackRock updated its S-1 filing with the SEC.
Chart of The Day: 90% Of S&amp;P 500 Stocks Above 50-Day Average
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="495" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20134829/S5FI_2023-12-20_18-48-13_6d186-1024x495.png" alt="" class="wp-image-165825" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20134829/S5FI_2023-12-20_18-48-13_6d186-1024x495.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20134829/S5FI_2023-12-20_18-48-13_6d186-300x145.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20134829/S5FI_2023-12-20_18-48-13_6d186-768x372.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20134829/S5FI_2023-12-20_18-48-13_6d186-1536x743.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20134829/S5FI_2023-12-20_18-48-13_6d186.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wednesday Performance In Major US Indices, ETFs</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Major Indices &amp; ETFs</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>% Change</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,038.78</td>
<td>0.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>37,642.65</td>
<td>0.2%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>16,839.46</td>
<td>0.2%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>4,775.07</td>
<td>0.1%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) was 0.1% higher to&nbsp;$475.53, the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) was 0.2% higher to $376.20&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) inched 0.2% up to $409.80, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro data.</a>
Sector-wise, the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLB#NYSE">XLB</a>) and the Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLC#NYSE">XLC</a>) outperformed, both up 0.8%. Staples, as tracked by the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) lagged behind, down 0.9%. 
Among industries, miners and oil and gas, as tracked by the SPDR Metal and Mining (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XME#NYSE">XME</a>) and the VanEck Oil Services ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OIH#NYSE">OIH</a>), outperformed, up 1%. The iShares Biotechnology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBB#NYSE">IBB</a>) was the underperformer, down 1%. 
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>S&amp;P Sector ETFs</th>
<th>% Change</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Energy</td>
<td>+0.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Communications</td>
<td>+0.8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Real Estate</td>
<td>+0.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Technology</td>
<td>+0.2%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Consumer Discretionary</td>
<td>+0.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Industrials</td>
<td>+0.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Health Care</td>
<td>0.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Materials</td>
<td>-0.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Financials</td>
<td>-0.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Utilities</td>
<td>-0.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Consumer Staples</td>
<td>-0.9%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wednesday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h2>
<ul>
<li>The Toro Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TTC#NYSE">TTC</a>) rose 9% on better-than-expected quarterly results. </li>
<li>FedEx Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FDX#NYSE">FDX</a>) fell over 10% on disappointing quarterly results. </li>
<li>DXC Technology Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DXC#NYSE">DXC</a>) traded over 8% lower after the company disclosed a management change. </li>
<li>Exact Sciences Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EXAS#NASDAQ">EXAS</a>) rose by 4% after surging by 7.5% a day earlier, after Guggenheim initiated coverage on Exact Sciences with a Buy rating and announced a price target of $90. </li>
<li>Aon plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AON#NYSE">AON</a>) tumbled 6% after the company announced a deal to buy property and casualty insurance broker NFP for $13.4 billion, to be financed by cash and share issuances, as it looks to expand in segments such as risk, benefits, wealth, and retirement plan advisory.</li>
</ul>
Read now: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/23/12/36329393/long-duration-treasury-bonds-enter-bull-market-what-lies-ahead-in-2024">Long-Duration Treasury Bonds Enter Bull Market: What Lies Ahead In 2024?</a>
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