Goldman Sachs: Don’t Let the AI Hype Get to Your Head, One Key Issue Remains Unsolved and Commercial Viability Is Increasingly in Doubt

October 8 – ** Shares of medical device manufacturer Haemonetics (HAE.N) surged nearly 16% to $117.81 ** The stock hit an intraday high of $120.61, marking its highest level since early 2021 ** The company stated that CSL Plasma, a subsidiary of Australia’s CSL Group (CSL.AX), expects to transition all its U.S. plasma collection centers to using HAE’s NexSys devices and kits by the end of 2027 ** CSL has also terminated its agreement with HAE rival Terumo (Terumo 4543.T) – according to BTIG ** This transition will help HAE win back business lost since 2021, when its largest plasma client CSL announced it would not renew its U.S. supply contract ** BTIG estimates that, based on approximately $155 million in revenue HAE generated from CSL’s U.S. business in fiscal year 2024, this account could add about $0.60 per share to adjusted earnings annually, though it notes that actual revenue and profit margins remain unclear ** The brokerage maintained its “Buy” rating and raised its price target from $110 to $130, stating that the deal alleviates market share loss concerns and boosts sales growth prospects ** Including today’s gains, the stock is up 49.46% so far this year (For the convenience of non-English speakers, Reuters provides its reports in several other languages through automated translation. Because automated translation may be inaccurate or lack needed context, Reuters does not guarantee the accuracy of the automated text, which is offered purely as a reader service. Reuters accepts no liability for any damage or loss caused by the use of automated translation services.)

Additional details from the report were included. Reuters, October 8 – According to the Financial Times, citing people familiar with the matter on Thursday, Starbucks (SBUX.O) has explored the possibility of acquiring Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG.N). If the deal materializes, it would merge two of the most well-known brands in the U.S. food industry and further deepen the connection between Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol and Chipotle—where Niccol established his reputation before running the coffee chain. The Financial Times, citing sources, reported that the coffee chain has been working with advisers in recent months to discuss a proposal to acquire Chipotle. Both Starbucks and Chipotle did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment. Chipotle's market value is nearly $39 billion, its shares were up about 4% in early trading, while Starbucks' stock fell about 3%. According to data from LSEG, Starbucks' market value is around $107 billion. Niccol was hired to revitalize the coffee chain, and over the past two years, he has focused on enhancing customer experience by simplifying menus and reducing wait times, leading to same-store sales growth for four consecutive quarters. Meanwhile, the Mexican grill chain is facing the dual challenges of weakening consumer demand and rising input costs amid persistently high inflation. (For the convenience of non-native English speakers, Reuters automatically translates its reports into several other languages. Since automated translations may contain errors or miss important context, Reuters does not guarantee the accuracy of the automated text, which is provided solely for reader convenience. Reuters is not liable for any damages or losses resulting from the use of automated translation.)

On Thursday, chip stocks generally declined. Intel (INTC.US) fell over 3%, and SanDisk (SNDK.US) dropped nearly 3%.