RJF Raymond James Financial Inc.

Raymond James Financial has raised its price target for Freeport-McMoRan (NYSE:FCX) to $53.00 from $49.00, reiterating an "outperform" rating, which suggests a 3.45% upside from its previous close. This update comes as the natural resource company recently surpassed quarterly earnings and revenue estimates. Despite some mixed revisions from other analysts, the consensus remains a "Buy" with an average target price of $49.87.

Raymond James has downgraded OceanFirst (OCFC) following its acquisition of Flushing Financial (FFIC). The brief news item indicates a negative analyst reaction to the merger.

Raymond James downgraded OceanFirst Financial Corp. and Flushing Financial Corp. to "Market Perform" after their all-stock $579 million merger announcement, citing limited near-term upside and elevated execution risks. The brokerage, through analyst Steve Moss, believes the deal fairly reflects Flushing's earnings challenges and dilutes key catalysts for OceanFirst, despite expanding its footprint and lifting EPS estimates. Moss also noted that challenges remain in maintaining bankers and lowering funding costs, along with the impact of stock warrants, which could hinder share appreciation.

Brendel Financial Advisors LLC initiated a new position in Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) during the third quarter, acquiring 5,909 shares valued at approximately $2.496 million. Other institutional investors also adjusted their holdings in Cummins. Cummins reported strong quarterly earnings, beating expectations with an EPS of $5.59 and revenue of $8.32 billion, while analyst sentiment has turned positive with increased price targets.

This article examines LPL Financial Holdings (LPLA), questioning whether it's a valuable long-term investment or simply overhyped. It discusses the company's business model as a platform for independent financial advisors, its price performance, and risks associated with market fluctuations. Ultimately, LPL is presented as a solid, scaled business for long-term wealth compounders rather than a quick-flip meme stock.

Raymond James has reiterated its Underperform rating on Clipper Realty Inc. (NYSE:CLPR) despite the stock's recent surge, citing financial challenges and potential interest rate resets on mortgages. The firm adjusted its NAV and FFO estimates, lowering NAV per share due to new overhangs while modestly increasing AFFO estimates based on lease extensions and accelerated contributions from certain properties. Clipper Realty faces significant financial distress, as indicated by its Altman Z-Score, and a notice of default on a $125 million loan.