Blockonomi

TLDR
Banco Bradesco stock gains 0.32% to $3.15 after a major insider purchase.
Executive Fernando Freiberger acquired 49,550 Banco Bradesco preference shares.
The SEC filing valued Freiberger’s latest share purchase near $890,909.
Freiberger’s direct Banco Bradesco holdings increased to about 239,000 shares.
Banco Bradesco combines banking and insurance across Brazil and other markets.
Banco Bradesco S.A. stock rose 0.32% to $3.15 on Friday after a sizable executive share purchase surfaced. Executive Officer Fernando Freiberger recently acquired 49,550 preference shares, according to an SEC Form 4 filing. The transaction adds a fresh corporate development as Banco Bradesco continues navigating its broader recovery phase.
Banco Bradesco S.A., BBDO
Freiberger Adds Nearly $900,000 in Banco Bradesco Shares
Freiberger completed the share purchase on September 18, adding significantly to his direct position in Banco Bradesco. The filing listed the transaction value at about $890,909 for 49,550 preference shares. It also reported a weighted average purchase price of $17.98 for the acquired shares.
The filing data stands apart from Banco Bradesco’s market price of $3.43 on the transaction date. The figures require distinction between the filing’s reported transaction terms and publicly quoted market pricing. Still, the transaction materially increased the number of Banco Bradesco shares held directly by Freiberger.
Following the purchase, Freiberger directly held roughly 239,000 shares in the Brazilian financial services group. That position represented about 0.002% of the company’s outstanding shares at the reported ownership level. Although small relative to total shares, the purchase increased the executive’s direct exposure to Banco Bradesco.
Banco Bradesco Stock Remains Below September Levels
Banco Bradesco stock traded at $3.15 on Friday, despite gaining 0.32% during the latest session. The stock stood at $3.52 at the September 21 market close, shortly after Freiberger’s transaction. The latest price remains below levels recorded immediately following the executive’s reported purchase.
Banco Bradesco shares had generated roughly a 5% return during the year ending September 18. The more recent retreat shows that the stock has continued facing short-term market pressure. The insider transaction now adds another data point to Banco Bradesco’s recent trading and corporate activity.
Executive purchases can attract market interest because they increase direct ownership among senior company officers. A single transaction does not establish future price direction or guarantee stronger operating performance. Banco Bradesco’s financial results and Brazilian banking conditions remain important drivers of the stock’s longer-term direction.
Banking and Insurance Operations Support Bradesco’s Scale
Banco Bradesco ranks among Brazil’s largest financial institutions and operates across banking, insurance, investments, and other financial services. The group serves retail customers, companies, and institutional clients through an extensive domestic financial network. It also maintains international operations that broaden its reach beyond the Brazilian banking market.
The company’s Banking division generates income through lending, deposits, fees, investments, and related financial products. Its Insurance division adds another significant source of revenue through premiums and associated financial services. This structure gives Banco Bradesco a broader earnings base than businesses relying primarily on conventional lending.
Banco Bradesco reported trailing revenue of BRL 341.3 billion and net income of BRL 24.3 billion. Its market capitalization stood near $37.2 billion based on the figures accompanying the recent company overview. The group also employed approximately 82,095 people across its financial services and operating network.
Brazil’s banking sector remains highly competitive, with large institutions competing across lending, digital banking, insurance, and wealth management. Banco Bradesco has relied on its extensive customer base and broad service offering to maintain its market position. At the same time, operating efficiency and credit quality remain central factors across the bank’s business model.
The latest insider purchase comes as Banco Bradesco continues building earnings across its diversified banking and insurance activities. Freiberger’s transaction increased his direct holding while BBDO stock remained near the lower end of recent September levels. Friday’s modest gain placed renewed attention on the purchase and Banco Bradesco’s broader share performance.

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TLDR
Western Digital stock drops 11.07% as Toshiba expands HDD production capacity.
Toshiba plans a $380M investment to double Philippine HDD output by 2027.
Toshiba targets 30% HDD capacity share from just over 10% currently.
AI data centers are increasing demand for cheaper high-capacity HDD storage.
Western Digital relies heavily on cloud customers for its growing HDD revenue.
Western Digital Corporation stock fell 11.07% to $411.33 on Friday as Toshiba outlined a major HDD production expansion. The planned investment increases competitive pressure across the fast-growing data-center storage market. Toshiba wants to strengthen its position as artificial intelligence workloads drive demand for high-capacity hard drives.
Western Digital Corporation, WDC
Toshiba Plans Major HDD Capacity Expansion
Toshiba plans to invest about 60 billion yen, or $380 million, to expand HDD production in the Philippines. The project would double production capacity by fiscal 2027 and mark Toshiba’s largest HDD investment in five years. The company also plans to produce drives offering as much as 40% more storage capacity.
Toshiba currently holds just over 10% of the HDD market when measured by storage capacity. The company aims to raise that share to 30% over the medium term. That target could increase competition for Western Digital and Seagate across large enterprise storage contracts.
Western Digital and Seagate each control more than 40% of the worldwide HDD market, according to industry estimates. Toshiba holds roughly 17% when market share is measured through unit shipments. Its planned expansion could narrow the capacity gap between the three major HDD suppliers.
Western Digital Faces Stronger Data Center Competition
Western Digital now focuses heavily on hard drives following its separation from SanDisk. That structure leaves the company more exposed to changes in enterprise storage demand and HDD pricing. Toshiba’s expansion therefore creates a direct competitive challenge within Western Digital’s core business.
Western Digital generated $3.75 billion in fiscal fourth-quarter revenue, representing 44% annual growth. Cloud customers accounted for 89% of total sales during the period. That contribution placed cloud revenue near $3.3 billion as demand for large-capacity drives remained strong.
High-capacity enterprise drives have become increasingly important as data centers expand artificial intelligence infrastructure. Operators need large storage systems for training data, system logs, backups, and inference outputs. HDD manufacturers have benefited because these workloads often require inexpensive storage rather than the fastest possible access.
AI Storage Demand Supports Long-Term HDD Growth
Artificial intelligence continues to increase the amount of information created and stored across global data centers. IDC estimates annual worldwide data generation could reach 718 zettabytes by 2030. That level would represent about four times the amount of data generated during 2024.
HDDs could store around 60% of that future data because their cost remains significantly below solid-state storage. SSDs currently cost roughly 20 times more than HDDs for comparable storage capacity. Tight memory supplies have also increased demand for conventional hard-drive storage.
Toshiba plans to pursue 65-terabyte-class drives by 2030 and eventually develop 100-terabyte-class products. The company also intends to automate inspection and clean-room processes at its expanded Philippines facility. Those changes could reduce additional staffing needs by around 40% while supporting higher production volumes.
Western Digital shares fell $51.23 during Friday trading as the Toshiba report weighed on the HDD sector. Seagate shares also declined as the market assessed potential changes in industry supply and competition. Toshiba’s capacity expansion now adds another factor to a storage market already benefiting from rising AI demand.

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TLDR
Flux Power rejects Solidion’s takeover bid after reviewing the proposal and value.
The board says Solidion’s offer undervalues Flux Power and its long-term outlook.
Flux Power plans to focus on lower costs, new growth and a path to profitability.
The company expands OEM ties while pursuing new white-label growth opportunities.
Solidion’s proposal remains unsupported as Flux Power reviews financing options.
Solidion Technology stock fell sharply Friday after Flux Power rejected the company’s unsolicited takeover proposal. STI dropped 11.12% to $5.47 during midday trading and moved near its intraday low. The rejection increased pressure as the market assessed Solidion’s failed attempt to acquire the energy storage company.
Solidion Technology Inc., STI
Flux Power Board Rejects Solidion Takeover Proposal
Flux Power’s board unanimously rejected Solidion Technology’s unsolicited and non-binding acquisition proposal. Solidion announced the proposed transaction on September 30, targeting the lithium-ion energy storage company. However, Flux Power determined that the offer did not provide sufficient value for its shareholders.
The board reviewed the proposal with its legal advisers before reaching its decision. Flux Power said Solidion’s proposal substantially undervalued the company and its longer-term business potential. Therefore, the board decided that accepting the proposed transaction would not serve the company’s interests.
Solidion develops battery materials and technologies for electric mobility and energy storage applications. Meanwhile, Flux Power supplies lithium-ion battery systems for industrial vehicles and other commercial equipment. The proposed deal would have combined businesses operating across different parts of the battery technology market.
Flux Power Focuses on Costs and Growth
Flux Power instead plans to continue its strategy aimed at improving efficiency and reaching profitability. The company has reduced product costs, operating expenses, and internal spending under its newer management team. It has also strengthened its supply chain and expanded relationships with original equipment manufacturers.
During fiscal 2026’s fourth quarter, Flux Power reduced operating expenses by 33% from the previous year. The company also secured certification with another major OEM, expanding its addressable electric material-handling market. Flux Power launched SkyEMS 3.0, which uses artificial intelligence for fleet energy management.
Flux Power has also started pursuing additional growth through its S series battery platform. The company plans to offer white-label solutions to new manufacturers and dealership networks. Furthermore, Flux Power entered the robotics market through cooperation with a large global technology company.
Rejected Bid Leaves Solidion Without Board Support
Flux Power’s rejection blocks Solidion from securing board support for its proposed transaction. The decision also shifts attention toward whether Solidion changes the proposal or abandons the acquisition effort. No revised offer formed part of Flux Power’s announcement.
Flux Power expects improving demand as broader economic pressures ease across its markets. Management believes lithium-ion technology can capture a larger share of industrial battery demand over time. Therefore, the company continues building capacity and commercial relationships around that expected shift.
The board is also reviewing possible financing options and strategic partnerships to support Flux Power’s operating plans. Those efforts could provide additional financial flexibility as the company pursues growth and profitability. For Solidion, the rejected proposal leaves the proposed acquisition without support from Flux Power’s board.

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TLDR
FFAI stock fell 2.80% after an earlier rally reversed during Friday trading.
Faraday Future showcased its EAI robotics platform and products at IROS 2026.
The company used IROS to recruit robotics talent and attract development partners.
FFAI and AIxC signed a non-binding deal valuing robotics assets near $200 million.
Faraday Future is positioning its robotics business for a possible public listing.
Faraday Future pushed its robotics strategy into focus after showcasing its EAI platform at the IROS 2026 conference. FFAI stock traded at $1.2150, down 2.80%, after an earlier rally reversed during the session. The company used the Pittsburgh event to present robotics products, development programs, and industry solutions.
Faraday Future Intelligent Electric Inc., FFAI
Faraday Future Expands Robotics Presence at IROS
Faraday Future attended IROS 2026 in Pittsburgh from September 28 through September 30. The conference brings together researchers, universities, technology companies, and developers working across global robotics markets. During the event, Faraday Future presented its developing EAI Robot World 2.0 platform.
The company displayed several robot products and demonstrated their operation for conference participants. Its All-New Futurist model showed mobile functions and flexible task execution across different practical situations. Faraday Future also discussed possible applications with developers, researchers, universities, and other industry participants.
Meanwhile, the company introduced its Built in USA Acceleration Program during the event. The initiative supports Faraday Future’s broader plan to expand its American robotics development operations. The company also used IROS to recruit specialists across robotics, data, research, and industry applications.
EAI Ecosystem Targets Developers and Industry Partners
Faraday Future presented its EAI Brain and Developer Platform as another part of its robotics strategy. Developers discussed capability development, practical applications, and opportunities to build products within the platform. The company also continued seeking internal development partners to support future robotics projects.
Its EAI Data Factory formed another part of the company’s conference activities. Faraday Future discussed real-world data collection and cooperation with potential data partners. The company plans to use broader datasets to improve robot functions across different operating environments.
Faraday Future also promoted four Industry Productivity Solutions designed for several commercial and research applications. Its Research Solution attracted discussions with research institutions and universities attending the Pittsburgh conference. Those talks covered robotics research, educational uses, teaching programs, and possible future cooperation.
AIxC Deal Supports Broader Robotics Strategy
The IROS appearance followed another major development involving Faraday Future’s robotics business. FFAI and AIxC recently signed a non-binding term sheet covering a proposed business combination. The agreement values Faraday Future’s robotics assets and related operations at approximately $200 million.
Under the proposal, Faraday Future would combine those robotics operations with AIxC. AIxC has also changed its name to FF EAI Robotics Ecosystem Inc., or FFR. The companies intend to position the combined robotics business toward a separate public listing.
Faraday Future continues expanding beyond its electric vehicle operations through robotics and embodied intelligence projects. Its IROS participation supported product development, recruitment, data partnerships, and possible commercial applications. However, FFAI stock ended the latest move lower after giving back its earlier intraday gains.

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TLDR
Palantir partners with Armada to expand sovereign AI infrastructure deployments.
Armada is named Palantir’s inaugural Certified Modular Data Center Partner.
Joint infrastructure keeps models, data, and hardware under customer control.
Modular data centers support faster deployment across secure operating sites.
Armada’s Sovereign AI Grid links distributed sites for stronger system resilience.
Palantir Technologies partnered with Armada to deliver sovereign artificial intelligence infrastructure for governments and enterprises. Palantir Technologies (PLTR) traded at $189.93, down 0.06%, after retreating from an intraday peak near $194.50. The companies will combine Palantir software with modular data centers manufactured in the United States and allied nations.
Palantir Technologies Inc., PLTR
Palantir Names Armada Modular Data Center Partner
Palantir named Armada its inaugural Certified Modular Data Center Partner under the new agreement. The partnership combines Palantir’s Sovereign AI Operating System with Armada’s modular infrastructure and distributed network. Together, the companies aim to give customers direct ownership over computing systems, models, and stored data.
The offering targets organizations seeking infrastructure that operates within their own security boundaries. Therefore, customers can deploy open-weight models without depending on computing resources controlled by outside cloud providers. Armada also supports deployments at locations where existing power capacity can support new computing infrastructure.
Palantir will validate its operating system on Armada’s Galleon modular data centers. Its software stack includes AIP, Ontology, Foundry, and Apollo across the joint infrastructure. Meanwhile, Armada will provide the hardware, management software, and connectivity required across distributed deployments.
Partnership Extends Palantir Sovereign AI Architecture
The agreement expands Palantir’s existing Sovereign AI Operating System reference architecture developed with NVIDIA. That framework supports computing infrastructure that customers physically own and directly operate. The Armada partnership now brings that structure into modular data centers designed for faster deployment.
Customers can run open models and adapt them using proprietary company or government data. They can also serve those models through Palantir platforms without moving information outside controlled infrastructure. As a result, organizations can maintain direct authority over computing hardware and model operations.
Armada manufactures the modular data centers in the United States and selected allied nations. The companies designed the system for traditional sites, remote locations, and environments without standard network connections. The modular approach also reduces dependence on lengthy construction schedules for conventional data centers.
Armada Infrastructure Supports Distributed AI Deployments
Armada’s software platform manages open-source models for model tuning and inference across customer-owned infrastructure. The platform can function without Armada’s cloud services and supports fully air-gapped systems when required. It also monitors computing equipment, power systems, and cooling conditions across each deployment.
The Sovereign AI Grid connects individual locations into a broader distributed computing system. Organizations can spread important workloads across several sites instead of depending on one facility. This structure provides additional operational resilience when individual locations face outages or infrastructure problems.
Demand for locally controlled computing infrastructure has increased as organizations review cloud dependence and supply-chain exposure. Governments also seek stronger control over sensitive data, computing resources, and model deployment locations. Palantir and Armada now plan to address those requirements through an integrated customer-owned infrastructure stack.

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TLDR
Las entregas del tercer trimestre de Tesla alcanzaron 486,532 vehículos, superando las proyecciones de Wall Street.
Un informe laboral de septiembre sorprendentemente débil impulsó al Nasdaq Composite a un máximo histórico.
Las acciones de Nike se mantienen cerca de su nivel más bajo en más de una década en medio de esfuerzos de reestructuración prolongados.
Los países del G7 se comprometieron a liberar 100 millones de barriles desde sus reservas estratégicas de petróleo.
Bitcoin subió más de 3%, impulsando a las acciones enfocadas en criptomonedas, incluidas Coinbase y Strategy.
El viernes, las acciones estadounidenses subieron con fuerza después de que las decepcionantes cifras de empleo redujeran las expectativas de un endurecimiento adicional por parte de la Reserva Federal. Tesla aportó otro catalizador con cifras de entregas trimestrales impresionantes.

TLDR
Joby Aviation shares fall 0.42% to $5.93 as Blade revives BLADEone service.
BLADEone resumes seasonal New York to South Florida flights starting November 19.
Aero will operate 16-seat jets with Starlink Wi-Fi and premium cabin service.
Blade targets travelers seeking private-style flying without full charter costs.
Blade’s network could support Joby’s future electric air taxi rollout in the US.
Joby Aviation shares fell 0.42% to $5.93 after Blade announced the return of BLADEone seasonal jet service. The stock retreated from about $6.10 and later stabilized near $5.90 during Friday trading. Blade plans to reconnect New York with South Florida through a premium shared-jet service starting November 19.
Blade Restarts Seasonal Florida Jet Route
Blade will run BLADEone from November 19, 2026, through May 2, 2027, under its seasonal schedule. The service will connect Westchester County Airport with Palm Beach and Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport. Blade will target travelers seeking private-style service without paying for a full aircraft charter.
USAC Airways, an Aero subsidiary, will operate the flights using Aero’s customized 16-seat commercial aircraft. Each seat will sit between the aisle and a window, giving passengers more space and direct access. The aircraft will also offer Starlink Wi-Fi, amenity kits, dining, bar service, and dedicated cabin staff.
Blade first introduced its enhanced aviation model between New York and Miami in 2015. Since then, private travel demand has grown between New York and South Florida. The corridor now ranks among the busiest private aviation markets linking major US business and leisure centers.
Service Targets Premium Travelers Between Cities
BLADEone will use private terminals to reduce crowded checkpoints, boarding lines, and other commercial airport delays. In New York, passengers can begin at Blade Lounge West or Blade’s terminal at Westchester County Airport. Travelers can also take a helicopter from Manhattan and reach Westchester in about ten minutes.
In Miami, flights will use the Blade-Aero Lounge at Opa-Locka Executive Airport. In Palm Beach, passengers will use a private terminal at President Donald J. Trump International Airport. These facilities support Blade’s wider strategy of offering a streamlined travel experience across major regional routes.
Blade and Aero previously worked together on summer service between Los Angeles and East Hampton. That partnership created a base for expanding their shared premium model to the East Coast. The companies now see the New York-to-Florida corridor as a logical addition to Aero’s network.
Blade Supports Joby’s Future Air Taxi Strategy
Joby owns Blade Urban Air Mobility and uses the business to build premium passenger transport infrastructure. Blade currently operates helicopter passenger services across the United States and Europe. Its asset-light model also relies on passenger terminals, digital booking tools, and existing aviation partners.
Joby plans to connect Blade’s network with electric air taxis after receiving required regulatory approvals. The company expects electric aircraft to reduce noise and operating costs across short-distance urban travel. Blade’s existing routes could help Joby introduce electric service through familiar terminals and passenger channels.
The renewed BLADEone service expands Blade’s fixed-wing offering before Joby begins commercial electric air taxi operations. Meanwhile, the seasonal route gives the company another way to serve high-value regional travel demand. For Joby, Blade remains a bridge between current aviation services and its planned electric mobility network.

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TLDR
Shares of Northrop Grumman (NOC) plunged to a 52-week low of $470.06 before settling near $476.45, marking approximately a 1% decline.
RBC Capital Markets shifted its rating from Outperform to Sector Perform while reducing the price target from $640 to $525.
Wall Street consensus remains at “Moderate Buy” with an average target price of $647.57.
Second-quarter results exceeded projections with adjusted EPS of $7.68 compared to the $6.82 estimate, while revenue climbed 5% to $10.88 billion.
RBC highlighted concerns over diminishing defense budget expansion beyond fiscal 2027 and constrained international revenue opportunities.
Northrop Grumman (NOC) experienced a significant setback this week, with shares plummeting to their lowest point in 52 weeks. The stock bottomed at $470.06 during intraday trading before ending the session around $476.45, representing approximately a 1% loss.
The decline followed a ratings adjustment from RBC Capital Markets, which downgraded the aerospace and defense company. The investment firm revised its stance from Outperform to Sector Perform.
Alongside the rating change, RBC significantly lowered its price forecast for the shares. The updated target now stands at $525, representing a substantial cut from the previous $640 projection.
In a research note distributed to investors, analyst Ken Herbert outlined his expectations for approximately 6% yearly revenue expansion between 2026 and 2028, characterizing this as an optimistic projection aligned with comparable defense industry companies.
Key Factors Behind the Rating Change
Herbert emphasized Northrop’s minimal presence in overseas markets as a significant challenge. He also highlighted anticipated slower budget expansion following fiscal year 2027, which could restrict the stock’s appreciation potential.
The recent award of the F/A-XX fighter aircraft contract to Boeing was mentioned in the analysis. However, Herbert observed that market participants hadn’t anticipated Northrop securing that particular program, making the contract loss less consequential to the investment thesis.
Rather, RBC believes future top-line expansion hinges on several critical initiatives. These encompass the B-21 Raider stealth bomber program, the company’s space systems portfolio, and possibly solid rocket motor production.
Achieving projected growth from these programs would require substantial capital commitments. RBC’s financial modeling incorporates only modest single-digit real increases in defense appropriations from 2028 through 2031.
The investment bank cautioned about escalating risks of budget “crowding out” during this timeframe. Herbert suggested that while foundational programs should maintain funding support, he identifies increasing vulnerability for the F-35 initiative, which contributes roughly 10% of total revenue.
Capital deployment strategy also factored into the assessment. Herbert observed that Northrop reduced its outstanding share count by fifty percent between 2007 and 2017, and more restrained repurchase activity moving forward could negatively impact market sentiment and per-share earnings expansion.
Regarding the B-21 bomber program specifically, RBC anticipates the total order quantity will increase to no fewer than 150 aircraft as operational requirements broaden. Nevertheless, the analyst continues to regard this program as exerting near-term pressure on profit margins.
Financial Metrics and Market Position
Notwithstanding the recent downgrade, the majority of Wall Street analysts maintain favorable views on NOC. The stock holds a consensus “Moderate Buy” recommendation, with a mean price objective of $647.57, substantially higher than current trading levels.
Among equity researchers tracking the company, two assign a Strong Buy rating, ten recommend Buy, and nine suggest Hold. This represents considerable variation in analyst perspectives following recent target adjustments in both directions.
Northrop’s most recent quarterly financial disclosure, issued on July 21st, surpassed Wall Street expectations. The defense contractor delivered adjusted earnings per share of $7.68 versus the consensus estimate of $6.82.
Quarterly sales reached $10.88 billion, representing a 5% year-over-year increase and exceeding the $10.80 billion projection. However, earnings per share declined from $8.15 reported in the comparable period of the prior year.
Management has provided full-year 2026 EPS guidance ranging from $28.60 to $29.10. Current analyst consensus projects $28.97 in earnings per share for the fiscal year, positioning estimates near the midpoint of company guidance.
The company distributes a quarterly dividend payment of $2.47 per share, translating to an annualized yield of approximately 2.1%. The stock’s 50-day moving average currently registers at $538.98, while the 200-day moving average stands at $568.95, both significantly above present market prices.
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Key Points
Arm (ARM) shares opened Friday at $306.78, up from Thursday’s close of $292.34, and reached an intraday peak of $311.89.
The surge came after Nvidia disclosed that Arm-based chips manage AI agent operations and safety oversight within its BlueField 4 infrastructure.
CEO Rene Haas has highlighted improving supply availability for Arm’s AGI CPU and strong positioning to meet $2 billion in identified customer orders.
Second-quarter results topped forecasts, delivering EPS of $0.45 against a $0.40 consensus and 22% year-over-year revenue growth to $1.29 billion.
Wall Street maintains a “Moderate Buy” stance, with analyst price objectives spanning $280 to $350.
Arm Holdings shares experienced a significant upward gap at Friday’s open. The stock began trading at $306.78, marking a substantial increase from the previous close of $292.34.
During mid-session trading, ARM touched $311.89. The advance represents notable momentum for a security known for price swings.
The catalyst originated with Nvidia. The semiconductor giant revealed that processors built on Arm architecture are handling both AI agent workload execution and critical safety monitoring functions within its latest BlueField 4 platform.
This development carries weight because it demonstrates Arm’s architectural footprint expanding far beyond mobile devices. Artificial intelligence infrastructure now represents a tangible revenue opportunity for the semiconductor designer.
Financial Performance and Supply Improvements
Arm’s most recent quarterly disclosure, published July 30th, delivered encouraging numbers for shareholders. The company posted earnings per share of $0.45, surpassing the Street consensus of $0.40.
Quarterly revenue hit $1.29 billion. This figure represents 22% growth compared to the year-ago quarter.
CEO Rene Haas has also addressed the company’s AGI CPU product line. He’s indicated that manufacturing bottlenecks are subsiding and that Arm maintains clear line-of-sight to fulfilling the entire $2 billion pipeline of customer commitments.
This pairing—solid earnings execution alongside improving manufacturing capacity—has driven approximately 20% stock appreciation since September. Context matters: ARM had shed nearly half its market value from its June high before this recovery phase commenced.
Analyst Perspectives Vary
Sentiment across the analyst community remains divided. TD Cowen reduced its price objective from $475 to $350 in late July, while maintaining its buy recommendation.
Wells Fargo also lowered expectations, adjusting its target from $350 to $280, yet retained an overweight stance on the shares.
Piper Sandler struck a more bullish tone. The firm launched coverage with an Overweight rating, pointing to server CPU design victories and deepening hyperscaler relationships as durable tailwinds.
In aggregate, one analyst assigns a Strong Buy rating, eighteen recommend Buy, seven suggest Hold, and one rates it Sell. The average price target stands at $303.32.
Recent insider activity warrants attention. CFO Jason Child divested 10,400 shares on September 21st at $300.00 per share, generating $3.12 million in proceeds.
This transaction occurred through a pre-established Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement, not a discretionary sale. Child maintains ownership of 153,442 shares following the disposition.
Institutional positioning has shifted notably. Hyperion Asset Management expanded its allocation by 28% during the most recent quarter, now controlling more than 1.8 million shares valued above $200 million.
Capital Research Global Investors similarly increased exposure, building its position by 5.1%. Franklin Resources modestly added to its holdings during the identical timeframe.
Valuation metrics remain elevated. ARM currently trades at a price-to-earnings multiple of 324, with total market capitalization approximating $335.7 billion.
Technical indicators show the 50-day moving average at $264.70, while the 200-day average registers $259.93. Both benchmarks trail Friday’s price action considerably, illustrating the velocity of the recent advance.
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Resumen rápido
Las acciones de SpaceX se dispararon un 6,19% hasta 157,24 dólares después de varios lanzamientos importantes
La Crew-13 llevó a cuatro astronautas hacia la Estación Espacial Internacional
Google lanzó el Proyecto Suncatcher a bordo de la misión Transporter-18 de SpaceX
Starship desplegó 26 satélites Starlink V3 después de alcanzar la órbita terrestre
Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, Dragon y Starship operaron durante la semana
Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SPCX) se disparó un 6,19% hasta 157,24 dólares el viernes después de varios lanzamientos exitosos esta semana. La acción ganó 9,17 dólares y se movió con fuerza al alza desde por debajo del nivel de 150 dólares durante la sesión. SpaceX completó misiones que incluyeron Starship, Falcon 9, Dragon, Falcon Heavy, NASA, Google y Starlink.

TLDR
Fortinet (FTNT) shares reached a record peak of $182.09 on October 2, 2026.
The stock trades around $181.68, reflecting a 108% increase year-over-year.
Third-quarter 2026 financial results scheduled for October 28, 2026.
Most recent quarterly billings soared 33% to $2.37 billion, surpassing Wall Street forecasts.
Multiple firms including Rosenblatt, Stifel, and TD Cowen lifted their price projections.
Shares of cybersecurity leader Fortinet (FTNT) hit an unprecedented peak of $182.09 during Thursday’s trading session. The stock was hovering near $181.68 at recent check.
This positions the stock within striking distance of its 52-week peak, sitting merely 1% below that threshold. The cybersecurity provider has experienced remarkable momentum throughout this year.
Looking back twelve months, FTNT shares have surged 108%. Investors who maintained positions since last October have watched their holdings more than double in value.
The impressive advance has pushed the company’s market capitalization to $131.13 billion. Fortinet maintains an impressive gross profit margin of 80.2%.
However, some market watchers express concern about the valuation. InvestingPro’s Fair Value analysis identifies Fortinet among the market’s more richly valued securities at present.
Despite valuation concerns, the fundamental performance supporting this rally remains impressive.
Strong Fundamentals Powering Momentum
The company’s most recent quarterly disclosure revealed billings climbing 33% to reach $2.37 billion. This figure substantially exceeded Rosenblatt’s projection of $2.14 billion.
Top-line revenue expanded 26% to $2.05 billion, similarly beating analyst forecasts. Product revenue particularly shined, rocketing 52% higher to $773 million.
Enterprise firewall upgrade cycles combined with accelerating demand for AI-focused security solutions appear to be driving this expansion. Businesses continue prioritizing network defense investments despite broader budget constraints.
The Street responded positively. Rosenblatt elevated its price objective to $195 while maintaining its Buy recommendation.
Stifel increased its target to $175, highlighting the better-than-anticipated performance. Scotiabank subsequently lifted its target to $163, specifically citing the robust billings figures.
TD Cowen maintained an optimistic outlook, establishing a $215 price objective. The firm anticipates 18% year-over-year revenue expansion during the latter half of 2026, above consensus estimates.
Not all analysts share the same enthusiasm, however. Cantor Fitzgerald maintained a Neutral stance with a $185 target, taking a more measured view than industry peers.
Upcoming Earnings and Strategic Acquisition
Cantor’s commentary accompanied analysis of Fortinet’s recent Virtue AI acquisition. This transaction enhances Fortinet’s enterprise AI security offerings.
The company has been strategically expanding in this area as artificial intelligence deployment accelerates throughout corporate infrastructure. Security solutions tailored for AI systems are emerging as a distinct market segment.
Market participants won’t wait long for additional insights. Fortinet has announced plans to release its third quarter 2026 financial performance on October 28.
The earnings conference call is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time that afternoon. Company leadership will present results and field inquiries from the analyst community.
A recorded webcast along with supplementary presentation materials will be available on Fortinet’s investor relations portal following the call. The company routinely publishes prepared statements from its CEO and CFO there as well.
For the moment, the stock’s ascent to unprecedented levels keeps Fortinet firmly in the spotlight approaching that earnings announcement. The forthcoming results will reveal whether momentum from the previous quarter sustained through Q3.
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TLDR
Amazon expands Prime refunds, with eligible customers receiving up to $200
The revised FTC settlement broadens eligibility for millions of Prime users
Customers who used up to 20 Prime benefits may now qualify for refunds of up to $200
Amazon will issue refunds through PayPal, Venmo, checks, or other eligible methods
All eligible Prime refunds must be completed by April 2027 under FTC terms
Amazon expanded its Prime refund program after federal regulators revised a $2.5 billion settlement covering millions of customers. Amazon (AMZN) traded at $250.60, up 0.95% after briefly moving above $253 during Friday’s session. The revised settlement raises potential refunds to $200 and broadens eligibility for former and current Prime members.
Amazon.com, Inc., AMZN
Amazon Expands Eligibility for Prime Refunds
Amazon is issuing additional refunds under its settlement with the Federal Trade Commission over Prime enrollment practices. The FTC accused Amazon of enrolling consumers in Prime subscriptions without sufficiently clear consent. The settlement requires Amazon to return money to qualifying customers and pay a separate civil penalty.
The FTC revised the refund requirements last month and expanded the number of consumers who qualify. Previously, Amazon needed to refund customers who used fewer than 10 Prime benefits during one year. The revised terms now cover eligible customers who used as many as 20 Prime benefits annually.
Customers must also have enrolled in Prime between June 23, 2019, and June 23, 2025. Therefore, the revised requirements bring millions of additional Prime members into the refund program. Eligible customers can now receive payments of up to $200 under the amended settlement terms.
Amazon Begins Automatic Payments to Customers
Amazon began sending automatic payments to newly eligible customers on Thursday under the updated settlement requirements. The company had already refunded more than $845 million to consumers by September. Amazon ultimately agreed to provide $1.5 billion in customer refunds under the broader settlement.
The agreement also requires Amazon to pay a $1 billion civil penalty to resolve the FTC case. Combined, the customer payments and penalty bring the settlement’s total value to $2.5 billion. The revised order increases the maximum individual refund from the previous $51 limit to $200.
Amazon must meet specific refund targets before February 2027 under the revised terms. Otherwise, the company will issue another $149 to certain customers who already received earlier settlement payments. Amazon must complete all required refunds to eligible customers by April 2027.
Customers Do Not Need to File Claims
Amazon will distribute the new refunds automatically, so eligible consumers do not need to submit claims. The company will send electronic payments through Venmo or PayPal when those payment methods remain available. Amazon can also mail checks directly to qualifying consumers when electronic payments are unavailable.
Consumers do not need to complete paperwork or respond to notices before receiving their settlement payments. Amazon remains responsible for identifying qualifying accounts and administering refunds under the FTC order. Therefore, customers should not provide personal information to outside parties claiming to process the settlement.
The FTC said it does not contact consumers directly about payments connected with the Amazon settlement. The agency also warned that people impersonating FTC representatives may attempt to target customers with scams. Amazon will continue distributing eligible refunds as it works toward the April 2027 completion deadline.
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TLDR
Nvidia stock advanced approximately 3% on Friday, setting a new intraday peak above its May record.
The chipmaker is responding to skeptics like Michael Burry who question whether AI chip depreciation timelines are overly optimistic.
Nvidia highlights that Meta and Google have both expanded their server depreciation periods from four to six years.
The company’s board approved an additional $150 billion share repurchase program, increasing total authorization to $235 billion through fiscal 2028.
Morgan Stanley named Nvidia its preferred semiconductor stock following discussions with CEO Jensen Huang.
Nvidia (NVDA) stock gained approximately 3% during Friday’s trading session, reaching a new intraday record and surpassing its prior all-time closing peak established in May. Trading activity showed shares hovering around $237.75, continuing a momentum that has delivered a year-to-date gain of roughly 27%.
The rally was powered by two distinct catalysts occurring simultaneously. First, an intensifying discussion about the actual useful life of AI chips. Second, a massive capital return initiative aimed at rewarding shareholders.
Consider the depreciation controversy first. Michael Burry, the investor famous for forecasting the 2008 financial crisis, has raised concerns that technology giants are being too conservative in estimating how quickly their AI hardware becomes obsolete. Such accounting choices could artificially inflate current earnings figures.
Nvidia isn’t sitting idly by. The semiconductor manufacturer is pointing to evidence from key clients like Meta Platforms and Google, both of whom have extended their AI infrastructure depreciation timeframes from four years to six. This serves as a direct counter to those questioning the industry’s accounting practices.
Why the Buyback Matters
The second catalyst is more transparent. Nvidia’s board approved an incremental $150 billion share repurchase authorization earlier this week. Combined with existing authorizations, the company now has $235 billion available for buybacks extending through fiscal 2028.
This represents the largest share repurchase program ever announced by any corporation. The magnitude sends a clear message: Nvidia’s leadership is confident the company will continue generating substantial cash flow despite heavy investment in AI infrastructure expansion.
The Street responded positively. Morgan Stanley elevated Nvidia to its top semiconductor recommendation on Friday after conducting meetings with CEO Jensen Huang and senior management. The investment bank cited ongoing robust AI demand and an expanding customer ecosystem.
Morgan Stanley also identified an emerging trend deserving attention. The firm suggested that AI infrastructure constraints are transitioning away from semiconductor availability toward data center real estate, electrical power availability, and financing capacity.
This represents an important evolution in the narrative. When chips are no longer the limiting factor, advantage shifts to organizations controlling affordable electricity and strategically located facilities.
The Bigger AI Picture
Nvidia’s moves are occurring within a broader AI investment landscape. The technology sector is increasingly focused on what follows the initial infrastructure buildout phase.
Anthropic’s anticipated public offering is contributing to this momentum. A stock market debut for the company behind Claude would provide another significant benchmark for investor appetite toward AI companies requiring massive capital for scaling operations.
For Nvidia in particular, the dual narrative of historic shareholder returns combined with an active defense against accounting critics provides renewed momentum entering the fourth quarter. Rather than allowing the depreciation discussion to fester quietly, the company has chosen to engage directly.
Nvidia also collaborates extensively with financial institutions to facilitate approximately $500 billion in capital deployment supporting the AI ecosystem, a figure that illustrates the enormous stakes involved in debates over hardware longevity and infrastructure spending patterns.
The post Why Nvidia (NVDA) Is Defending AI Chip Longevity Against Michael Burry’s Criticism appeared first on Blockonomi.

Resumen
Las acciones de Bloom Energy (BE) subieron aproximadamente un 5% durante la sesión de la mañana del viernes, alcanzando un máximo intradía cercano a $297.59.
RBC Capital mantuvo su calificación de Outperform con un precio objetivo de $335, destacando el nuevo plan energético recién publicado de Virginia.
El plan de energía de Virginia para 2026 establece una designación de “recurso de gas sin combustión” que prioriza las celdas de combustible, permitiendo hasta 5 GW de capacidad para 2035.
Barclays elevó su precio objetivo de $276 a $308, destacando una nueva instalación de fabricación en Fremont, California, que casi duplica la capacidad de producción.

TLDR
Paul Meeks, de Freedom Capital, subió su recomendación para Cerebras Systems (CBRS) de Mantener a Comprar, asignando un precio objetivo de 209 dólares.
El cambio en la recomendación se produjo después de una fuerte caída del 17%, impulsada por preocupaciones de que OpenAI podría estar cambiando hacia GPU de Nvidia.
Meeks describió la reacción del mercado como exagerada, al sostener que la situación de OpenAI representa un riesgo mínimo.
La acción ganó cerca de 2% tras el anuncio, rebotando con moderación desde los recientes mínimos posteriores a la salida a bolsa.
Las estimaciones de consenso apuntan a que los ingresos de Cerebras crecerán más de tres veces, hasta 2.95 mil millones de dólares para 2027.

TLDR
Sources indicate Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure will likely be classified as gatekeepers under EU’s Digital Markets Act framework.
Brussels could announce its final determination by November 2026, though timing remains subject to change.
Gatekeeper classification would impose interoperability requirements and prohibit self-preferencing and vendor lock-in tactics.
Designated platforms face a six-month implementation window to achieve full compliance.
Brussels maintains no conclusive determination has been reached at this stage.
Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure are on track to be brought under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, according to a Bloomberg report citing individuals with knowledge of the ongoing proceedings.
$MSFT AND $AMZN CLOUD HEADED FOR DMA GATEKEEPER TAG
Brussels has a preliminary view that AWS and Azure should be designated under the DMA
Biggest and second-biggest cloud in the EU, even though they miss the usual size thresholds
Lock-in, switching costs, and AI tools… pic.twitter.com/gIEBMOXZbM
— CHItrader (@CHItrader) October 2, 2026
Brussels has been conducting a detailed assessment for several months to determine whether these two cloud computing giants satisfy the threshold requirements for DMA supervision. According to sources, both platforms meet the necessary criteria.
The Commission could publish its conclusive determination as early as November 2026. However, the timeline is not fixed, as internal drafts are still being reviewed and refined.
Current Status of EU Review Process
The European Commission has refrained from confirming any definitive outcome. An official representative stated that preliminary assessments were communicated to both Amazon and Microsoft in June 2026.
“The assessments are ongoing and no final decision has been taken,” the Commission stated.
The Digital Markets Act serves as a regulatory framework intended to curtail the dominance of major technology platforms within European markets. It currently governs companies including Apple, Google, and Meta.
All three firms have been subjected to financial penalties from Brussels in the current year. Google received the steepest sanction, approximately $1 billion.
Cloud infrastructure providers have attracted increased regulatory scrutiny following a series of widespread service disruptions that affected global operations. Brussels has also expressed its objective to diminish European dependence on non-European cloud infrastructure providers.
Implications of Gatekeeper Status
Should AWS and Azure receive gatekeeper designations under the DMA framework, both organizations would face a six-month deadline to implement compliance measures.
Key requirements include interoperability mandates designed to facilitate smoother transitions between competing cloud platforms. These provisions specifically aim to eliminate lock-in mechanisms that make customer migration prohibitively complex or costly.
The regulatory framework would additionally ban self-preferencing conduct. Under this prohibition, cloud infrastructure operators would be barred from giving preferential treatment to their proprietary offerings at the expense of third-party alternatives hosted on their platforms.
Microsoft issued a statement acknowledging its ongoing dialogue with EU authorities. The company characterized these exchanges as productive and collaborative.
Amazon Web Services similarly responded, asserting that European enterprises currently enjoy unprecedented levels of choice within the cloud computing marketplace.
Neither organization explicitly confirmed or refuted the anticipated gatekeeper classification.
This development unfolds against a backdrop of heightened transatlantic trade friction. In July 2026, President Donald Trump announced the United States would initiate a formal inquiry into European Union trade policies.
Trump publicly criticized the Digital Markets Act through social media channels. He declared the United States would resist what he characterized as discriminatory treatment by European regulatory bodies.
He further warned that the European Union would face retaliatory measures for penalties imposed on U.S.-based technology firms.
The Bloomberg report did not indicate whether diplomatic tensions would influence the schedule or substance of the cloud infrastructure investigation.
Brussels continues to assert that no binding determination has been finalized. Both Amazon and Microsoft indicate they remain in active consultation with regulators as the evaluation approaches a potential November conclusion.
The post Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure Face November 2026 EU Compliance Deadline appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR
Rivian handed over 19,248 vehicles during Q3, representing a 46% increase year-over-year.
Deliveries exceeded analyst expectations of 18,001 units.
The stock gained approximately 1% during premarket hours following the announcement.
The company maintained its 2026 delivery target of 65,000 to 70,000 vehicles.
Growth is primarily attributed to the more affordable R2 SUV, introduced in June.
Shares of Rivian (RIVN) edged higher by roughly 1% in early Friday trading after the electric vehicle manufacturer announced record-setting third-quarter delivery numbers. The company transferred 19,248 vehicles to customers during the July-September period, significantly surpassing the 18,001-unit consensus forecast from Wall Street analysts.
The quarterly performance represents a substantial 46% surge compared to the corresponding quarter of the previous year, when deliveries totaled 13,201 units. This acceleration arrives during a particularly challenging environment for the broader electric vehicle sector.
The R2’s Strategic Importance
Much of the delivery surge can be attributed to the R2, Rivian’s more compact and budget-friendly SUV offering. Customer deliveries for the R2 commenced in June, targeting a significantly broader customer base than the company’s existing premium lineup.
Prior to the R2’s introduction, Rivian’s vehicle portfolio consisted exclusively of premium offerings. Both the R1S SUV and R1T pickup truck command higher price tags, which constrained the company’s addressable market.
Industry analysts view the R2 as a critical component of Rivian’s expansion strategy going forward. This perspective has become particularly relevant given the expiration of federal EV tax incentives and mounting tariff pressures affecting the industry.
The automaker also maintained its full-year delivery outlook. Management continues to project deliveries ranging from 65,000 to 70,000 units for 2026.
Achieving the lower end of that guidance requires Rivian to increase deliveries by a minimum of 20.5% from Q3 to Q4. Such growth would translate to approximately 23,193 vehicles delivered in the final quarter.
According to Visible Alpha consensus data, Wall Street analysts are projecting annual deliveries of 66,685 vehicles, positioning expectations comfortably within the company’s stated guidance band.
Manufacturing Output And Strategic Alliances
Rivian’s manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois produced 19,751 vehicles throughout the third quarter. The production figure slightly exceeds deliveries, indicating a modest inventory accumulation.
This isn’t the company’s first guidance revision of 2024. Rivian previously elevated its annual delivery forecast in July, citing better-than-anticipated demand for the R2 model.
Beyond vehicle sales, the company has been actively pursuing strategic partnerships. In March, Rivian finalized a comprehensive agreement with Uber.
The partnership allows Uber to invest as much as $1.25 billion in Rivian over time. The collaboration encompasses plans to deploy fully autonomous R2 SUVs as robotaxis beginning in 2028.
This autonomous vehicle initiative provides Rivian with an alternative growth trajectory separate from traditional consumer sales. It represents a strategic wager that autonomous ride-hailing will emerge as a meaningful revenue contributor later in the decade.
For the present, delivery volumes remain the most transparent indicator of Rivian’s operational momentum. The record-breaking quarter indicates that R2 demand remains resilient despite broader headwinds facing the EV market.
Rivian is slated to release complete third-quarter financial results on October 29. That earnings report will reveal whether the strong delivery performance is generating margin improvements and reducing cash consumption rates.
The post Rivian (RIVN) Delivers 19,248 Vehicles in Q3, Fueled by R2 SUV Demand appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR
Tres naves espaciales fabricadas en la planta de Boulder, Colorado de Spire Global fueron lanzadas con éxito a la órbita.
El despliegue ocurrió a través del servicio de viajes compartidos (rideshare) Transporter-18 de SpaceX.
Estos satélites están destinados a un cliente de defensa y seguridad nacional.
La dirección de la empresa destacó el logro como un avance significativo en la capacidad de producción nacional.
El precio de las acciones aumentó aproximadamente un 4% durante las primeras operaciones tras la noticia.
Spire Global ha lanzado con éxito tres satélites que representan la primera producción de su centro de fabricación en Boulder, Colorado. La nave espacial despegó de la Tierra a bordo de la misión Transporter-18 de SpaceX, que transporta múltiples cargas útiles para varios operadores.

Resumen en breve
Planet Labs desplegó 20 satélites el viernes, con uno específicamente diseñado para evaluar las unidades de procesamiento tensorial de Google en condiciones orbitales.
El despliegue tuvo lugar mediante la misión de rideshare Transporter-18 de SpaceX, que despegó desde la Base de la Fuerza Espacial de Vandenberg en California.
La iniciativa de Google, denominada Proyecto Suncatcher, investiga la viabilidad de una infraestructura de aprendizaje automático que funcione en el espacio.
Google ha establecido comunicación con su satélite experimental y reporta operaciones nominales.

TLDR
Ford’s Q3 U.S. sales declined 6.6% to 507,395 light-duty vehicles in the quarter.
The automaker retained the No. 3 U.S. sales position by a slim margin, edging out Hyundai’s 506,200 combined vehicles.
Ford stock (F) declined 0.69%, losing $0.08 per share following the announcement.
F-Series pickup truck sales decreased just 1.9%, benefiting from better inventory following supplier disruptions.
Electric vehicle sales collapsed 67.5% compared to last year after federal tax credits expired.
Ford stock (F) declined 0.69% after the Detroit automaker announced a 6.6% decrease in third-quarter U.S. sales. Despite the downturn, the company narrowly maintained its position as the nation’s third-largest automaker ahead of a fast-growing Hyundai.
The Dearborn-based manufacturer moved 507,395 light-duty vehicles throughout the three-month period. This figure doesn’t include commercial heavy-duty trucks, which Ford reports in a separate category.
Hyundai’s combined brands—including Kia and Genesis—registered a 5.4% sales gain to reach 506,200 vehicles. Industry analysts at Cox Automotive had previously forecast that the Korean conglomerate would surpass Ford during this period.
However, both manufacturers exceeded those projections. Ford maintains a cushion of approximately 89,700 vehicles over Hyundai through the first nine months of the year.
Ford representatives emphasized that Hyundai and Kia function as distinct brands in the American market. The company minimized the significance of the Korean automaker’s encroachment.
What Drove the Decline
Ford discontinued both the Escape crossover and Lincoln Corsair SUV during this calendar year. The absence of these models creates challenging year-over-year comparisons since they contributed sales in the previous year.
Ford announced today that it sold 6,047 EVs in the U.S. in Q3 2026, -80.2% YoY.
Units sold:
• Mach-E: 5,574 (-72% YoY)
• F-150 Lightning: 289 (discontinued)
• E-Transit: 184 (-57% YoY) pic.twitter.com/eRgRo4YXMD
— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) October 2, 2026
Additionally, the automaker faced challenges from two separate supplier facility fires during the prior year. These incidents severely disrupted F-Series manufacturing and constrained sales throughout several months.
According to Rob Kaffl, Ford’s U.S. sales director, those supply chain issues have largely been addressed. He anticipates stronger performance in the final quarter as inventory levels normalize.
Sales of the F-Series lineup, encompassing the F-150 and other models, decreased only 1.9% during the quarter. This represents a significantly smaller drop compared to the company’s overall performance.
However, the now-discontinued F-150 Lightning electric truck weighed heavily on those figures. Lightning deliveries plummeted 97.1% in the three-month span.
The core Ford brand saw approximately 6% lower sales for the period. The Lincoln premium division experienced a steeper 18% contraction.
Fuel Costs and Electric Vehicle Trends
Gasoline prices have surged considerably throughout the year. According to AAA data, the nationwide average reached $4.43 per gallon in September, jumping from $3.20 during the same month last year.
Ford leadership indicates this price increase is driving consumers toward hybrid powertrains. Interest in hybrid versions, including the hybrid F-150, has grown substantially.
The compact Maverick pickup, available with a fuel-efficient hybrid drivetrain, recorded sales growth exceeding 20% to reach 41,970 units. This model ranks among Ford’s best-performing vehicles this quarter.
Overall truck sales at Ford, encompassing the F-Series range, actually increased 0.5% to 315,112 units. Pickups continue to represent the foundation of the manufacturer’s revenue stream.
Vehicle affordability remains a challenge for consumers throughout the automotive sector. The average new-vehicle selling price climbed 1.9% to $50,089 in August, according to Cox Automotive data.
Ford’s electric vehicle segment showed particularly weak results. EV sales tumbled 67.5% year-over-year through September, including an 80% plunge specifically in the third quarter.
The year-over-year comparison proves difficult because last year’s EV deliveries experienced an artificial spike. Consumers accelerated purchases to secure federal tax incentives worth up to $7,500 before they were eliminated under the Trump administration.
Ford’s dramatic EV sales reduction primarily reflects the absence of those federal incentives rather than underlying demand shifts. The automaker has not yet introduced replacement promotional programs to compensate for the lost tax credits.
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