US PREMARKET ACTIONS: August 25, 2025
Futures Indices
Dow Futures: -0.18%
S&P 500 Futures: -0.22%
Nasdaq 100 Futures: -0.3%
10-year US yield: 4.27%
**Market Environment**
US futures are slipping slightly this Monday after the Dow Jones hit a record close on Friday, buoyed by Jerome Powell’s remarks at Jackson Hole.
According to Paul Donovan (UBS), "Powell’s speech was typical: more rhetoric on data dependency, but little substance. He nevertheless highlighted increased risks to the economy from trade tariffs, hinting at possible easing as early as September."
Peter Sidorov (Deutsche Bank) confirmed: "Markets ended last week on an optimistic note thanks to Powell’s dovish stance. This week’s focus will be on inflation data, especially the PCE index on Friday."
Another major event to watch: Nvidia (NVDA) earnings on Wednesday night, with the tech sector still under pressure after five straight sessions of declines, halted on Friday.
**Stocks to Watch**
**Valneva (VALN) -25%**
Shares plunge after the FDA immediately suspended the Ixchiq vaccine license due to severe adverse events. All US shipments and sales are stopped.
**Axogen (AXGN) -14.33%**
Shares fall sharply after the FDA postponed its decision on the Avance nerve graft to December. The uncertainty weighs heavily on valuation.
**Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) -4.65%**
Fell after announcing the $18.4bn acquisition of JDE Peet’s, financed by debt. The group will be split into two distinct entities.
**OmniAb (OABI) -5.95%**
Dropped after announcing a $30m fundraising via private placement.
**Sharps Technology (STSS) +43.71%**
Shares soared after announcing a $400m financing for its cash strategy on Solana.
**Vital Energy (VTLE) +17%**
Rose sharply following rumors of a buyout by Crescent Energy, with an official announcement expected this week.
**Sasol (SSL) +7.15%**
Advanced on a return to annual profit thanks to cost cuts. The group is investing in carbon credits and renewable energy.
**Nio (NIO) +6%**
Continued its rally after presenting the new ES8 SUV, which is more affordable and backed by a battery subscription system. Delivery slated for September.
**Rating Changes**
Upgrades
Alaska Air Group (ALK) → Raymond James upgrades to "Outperform" with a $70 target
FirstEnergy (FE) → Barclays upgrades to "Overweight", target raised from $43 to $49
Lazard (LAZ) → KBW upgrades to "Outperform", target raised from $60 to $65
D.R. Horton (DHI) → William O’Neil initiates with a buy recommendation
Neutral
Dollar Tree (DLTR) → "Hold" rating maintained, target raised from $90 to $110
Symbotic (SYM) → D.A. Davidson upgrades to "Neutral", target raised from $35 to $47
Williams-Sonoma (WSM) → KeyBanc remains "Overweight", target raised from $181 to $230
Downgrades
American Airlines (AAL) → Raymond James downgrades to "Market Perform" due to more uncertain outlook
Quest Diagnostics (DGX) → Baird downgrades to "Neutral", target at $194
Have a great session everyone
Sylvain Mouilhaud: Stock Coach