Jan. 13, 2026•
Somewhat-Bullish
Javed Mirza, managing director of quantitative/technical strategy at Raymond James, has released his 2026 equity market outlook, forecasting a 16% return for the S&P 500, reaching 7,940, though gains may be concentrated in the fourth quarter. He also identified 16 North American stock ideas for 2026, building on his accurate prediction of the S&P/TSX Composite Index outperforming the S&P 500 in 2025. The analyst anticipates a sustainable rally starting in November 2026, extending into 2027 or 2028 before potential rate hikes might end the bull market.
Jan. 13, 2026•
Neutral
Kroger has quietly pushed back its 2018 pledge to eliminate single-use plastic bags by 2025, citing COVID-19, customer feedback, cost, and legislative slowdowns. This move has drawn criticism concerning potential greenwashing, as the company has faced similar challenges with other environmental commitments under its Zero Hunger Zero Waste initiative. While some Kroger stores have eliminated plastic bags due to local laws, many, like those in Kentucky, have not, and the company plans to reduce plastic bag use over time without a new fixed deadline.
Jan. 13, 2026•
Bearish
The Charleston Climate Coalition (CCC) is organizing a protest against Dominion Energy's proposed natural gas plant along the Edisto River and a pipeline through the ACE Basin. The environmental advocates argue the project will harm consumers, accelerate climate change, and threaten a sensitive ecological area. The rally aims to urge the South Carolina Public Service Commission to reject the plan, pushing for renewable energy alternatives instead of the massive gas plant.
Jan. 13, 2026•
Bullish
Wall Street analysts have expressed strong optimism for Albemarle Corp., the leading lithium producer, predicting a new multi-year upcycle in the lithium sector. This sentiment, driven by anticipated structural supply constraints and Albemarle's improving financials and operational execution, has led to increased price targets and a significant rally across lithium stocks. Scotiabank projects lithium carbonate equivalent prices could reach $20,000 per metric ton by 2028, underscoring a belief in a robust and sustained market inflection.
Jan. 13, 2026•
Somewhat-Bearish
BlackRock is reducing its global workforce by approximately 250 employees, or about 1%, affecting investment and sales teams. This move is part of CEO Larry Fink's strategy to restructure the firm and expand into alternative investments, following a US$12 billion acquisition and previous staff reductions in 2025. Other financial firms like Citigroup and UBS are also implementing job cuts to manage costs.
Jan. 13, 2026•
Neutral
Chevron (CVX) stock remained steady after reports indicated it is a leading contender, paired with Quantum Capital Group, to acquire Lukoil's $22 billion overseas portfolio, which includes assets in Iraq, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and European/U.S. refineries and fuel stations. The deal faces a U.S. deadline of January 17th and requires approval from the U.S. Treasury’s OFAC, which has previously blocked similar attempts. Investors are closely watching the outcome, especially given the complexities of sanctions and fluctuating oil prices, ahead of Chevron's Q4 earnings call on January 30th.
Jan. 13, 2026•
Somewhat-Bullish
EQT Corp., the largest U.S. natural gas producer, is experiencing significant stock volatility despite its strategic position in the market. While gas prices fluctuate and the stock is below its 52-week high, analysts maintain a cautiously bullish outlook, citing potential upside from current levels due to hedging, M&A optionality, and long-term LNG export growth. The company's focus on capital discipline and its role in the shifting global energy landscape continue to attract value-oriented energy funds despite a challenging year for investors.
