Pre-Market Movers: Key Stocks to Watch on Thursday
The stock market is poised for a positive start to the day, with U.S. stock futures trading higher on Thursday morning. Here’s a look at some of the companies that are expected to be in focus today:
Hershey Company (HSY):
The chocolate giant is slated to report quarterly earnings before the market opens. Analysts are expecting earnings of $2.56 per share on revenue of $3.08 billion, according to data from Benzinga Pro. Hershey shares closed at $177.98 yesterday, but climbed 1.2% in after-hours trading.
Upwork Inc. (UPWK):
The freelance platform company exceeded expectations for its third-quarter financial results and announced a $100 million share repurchase program. Upwork also forecasted strong fourth-quarter revenue between $178 million and $183 million with adjusted earnings expected to be between 24 cents and 28 cents per share. The company’s shares surged 7% in after-hours trading, reaching $15.60.
Halliburton Company (HAL):
This energy services giant is scheduled to release earnings before the market opens. Analysts are predicting earnings of 75 cents per share on revenue of $5.83 billion. Halliburton’s shares closed at $30.60 and increased 0.3% in after-hours trading.
Avid Bioservices, Inc. (CDMO):
The contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) is set to be acquired by GHO Capital Partners and Ampersand in a $1.1 billion transaction. This news sent Avid Bioservices shares soaring 11.6% in after-hours trading, closing at $12.25.
Block, Inc. (SQ):
The payments and financial technology company is expected to report its quarterly earnings after the closing bell. Analysts predict earnings of 87 cents per share on revenue of $6.24 billion. Block shares finished at $77.98 yesterday and gained 0.4% in after-hours trading.These are just a few of the companies to watch on Thursday. As always, stay tuned for more updates and market insights throughout the day.
