Dernières nouvelles pour Wendy's (NASDAQ:WEN) Stock

Wendy's

The Wendy's Company is the second-largest burger quick-service restaurant, or QSR, chain in the United States by systemwide sales, with $12.3 billion in 2023, narrowly edging Burger King ($11.5 billion) and clocking in well behind wide-moat McDonald's ($53.1 billion). After divestitures of Tim Hortons (2006) and Arby's (2011), the firm manages just the burger banner, generating sales across a footprint that spanned almost 7,157 total stores in 30 countries as of year-end 2023. Wendy's generates revenue from the sale of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and fries throughout its company-owned footprint, through franchise royalty and marketing fund payments remitted by its franchisees, which account for 94% of stores, and through franchise flipping and advisory fees.

The Wendy's Co

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Wendy&#8217;s Co. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) is using artificial intelligence from data analytics firm Palantir Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>) to manage its supply of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/10/41149776/wendys-is-ready-kids-and-adults-spongebob-squarepants-collaboration-includes-pineapple-frosty">burgers, fries and Frosty's.</a> 
The Details: Wendy's supply chain purchases are handled by an independent co-op group that first tested Palantir's technology last year amid tight profit margins and increasing pressure from inflation, according to a Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-11-07/wendy-s-wen-1-frosty-deal-made-easier-with-ai-from-palantir-pltr?sref=TBDibEcD">report.</a> The group is using Palantir's system to spot shortages and suggest solutions like placing an order from a supplier. 
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41781921/what-does-trumps-victory-mean-for-ev-giant-tesla-and-the-big-3-automakers">What Does Trump&#8217;s Victory Mean For EV Giant Tesla And The Big 3 Automakers?</a>
Pete Suerken, who leads the purchasing co-op, said the system's AI learns over time and can suggest a specific warehouse, after considering factors such as cost and the probability of the items arriving on time. The software <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40220301/whats-going-on-with-palantir-stock-today">can predict</a> when specific products will run out by analyzing current and historical sales figures.&nbsp;
Suerken praised Palantir's platform and said it was "so much better" than spreadsheets and other customary inventory management methods. He also said the return on investment is "significant." 
Wendy's recently asked the supply chain program to identify shortages restaurants could face over the following three weeks and then staff trained the model by showing how the shortages should be solved. Wendy's purchasing group plans to eventually allow the AI model to manage smaller inventory and ordering tasks autonomously and without human intervention. 
"Three or four years from now, if you're not doing this, you'll be at a distinct disadvantage," said Suerken. "This is something that, as an industry, will change the way we work."&nbsp;
WEN, PLTR Price Action: According to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>, Wendy's shares are down 1.54% at $20.08 and Palantir shares are down 2.13% at $54.32 at the time of publication Thursday. 
Read Also:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41561955/dollar-general-aims-to-draw-customers-from-walmart-amazon-with-holiday-sales-events">Dollar General Aims To Draw Customers From Walmart, Amazon With Holiday Sales Events</a></li>
</ul>
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Wendy's Uses Palantir AI Tech To Manage Burger, French Fry Inventories; Return On Investment Is 'Significant'

BMO Capital analyst Andrew Strelzik maintains Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Market Perform and raises the price target from $19 to $20.

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

BMO Capital Maintains Market Perform on Wendy's, Raises Price Target to $20

Truist Securities analyst Jake Bartlett maintains Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $21 to $22.

Truist Securities Maintains Buy on Wendy's, Raises Price Target to $22

Wedbush analyst Nick Setyan reiterates Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Neutral and maintains $20 price target.

Reiteration

Wedbush Reiterates Neutral on Wendy's, Maintains $20 Price Target

Stephens &amp; Co. analyst Jim Salera reiterates Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Equal-Weight and maintains $19 price target.

Stephens & Co. Reiterates Equal-Weight on Wendy's, Maintains $19 Price Target

The Wendy's Co&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) shares are trading lower after the company reported&nbsp;third-quarter&nbsp;2024 revenue growth of&nbsp; 2.9%&nbsp;year-over-year to&nbsp;$566.7 million,&nbsp;beating the analyst consensus <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/10/n41648703/the-wendys-company-reports-third-quarter-2024-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">estimate of&nbsp;$560.75 million.</a>
<ul>
<li>Adjusted revenues increased&nbsp;0.5%&nbsp;to&nbsp;$443.6 million. Systemwide sales in the U.S. rose&nbsp;0.9%, and International increased&nbsp;7.7%.</li>
<li>Global same-restaurant sales growth was 0.2%. U.S. company-operated restaurant margin was 15.6% (flat year-on-year).</li>
<li>Wendy&#8217;s strengthened its &#8220;digital and loyalty platforms,&#8221; CEO Kirk Tanner said.</li>
<li>Operating profit for the quarter declined&nbsp;6.8%&nbsp;year over year to&nbsp;$94.7 million. Adjusted EBITDA was&nbsp;$135.2 million&nbsp;versus&nbsp;$139.2 million&nbsp;year over year.</li>
<li>Operating profit decreased due to increased breakfast advertising costs, higher depreciation, and higher general and administrative expenses.</li>
<li>Adjusted EPS of 25 cents <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in line with the consensus estimate.</a></li>
<li>As of June, the company held $482.2 million in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash of $35.180 million.</li>
<li>Operating cash flow for the nine months totaled $286.7 million, with a free cash flow of $234.1 million.</li>
</ul>
Buyback: In the third quarter of 2024, the company repurchased 1.5 million shares for $25.2 million and 0.2 million shares for $2.7 million through Oct. 24. Approximately $247.7 million remains available as of October 24 under the company's existing share repurchase authorization that expires in February 2027.
Dividend: The company declared its regular quarterly cash dividend of 25 cents per share, payable on December 16, to shareholders of record as of Dec. 2.
2024&nbsp;Outlook:&nbsp;Wendy's now expects adjusted EPS of&nbsp;$0.99-$1.01 (vs.&nbsp;$0.99&nbsp;Estimate) compared to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40103091" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the prior view of&nbsp;$0.98-$1.02</a>.
The company continues to see adjusted EBITDA of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">$535 million-$545 million</a>.
WEN now sees Global systemwide sales growth of&nbsp;3% (vs. 3%&nbsp;to&nbsp;5% earlier) and reiterated guidance for cash flows from operations of&nbsp;$365 million&nbsp;to&nbsp;$385 million, and free cash flow of&nbsp;$275 million&nbsp;to&nbsp;$285 million.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via VictoryShares US Small Cap High Div Volatility Wtd ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSB#NASDAQ">CSB</a>) and ETC 6 Meridian Low Beta Equity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SIXL#NYSE">SIXL</a>).
Price Action: Wendy&#8217;s shares are down 4.43% at $19.41 at the last check Thursday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/10/41149776/wendys-is-ready-kids-and-adults-spongebob-squarepants-collaboration-includes-pineapple-frosty" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wendy&#8217;s Is Ready, Kids (And Adults): SpongeBob SquarePants Collaboration Includes Pineapple Frosty, Krabby Patty Burgers</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

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Wendy's Mixed Q3: EPS Outlook Narrows Despite Revenue Beats, Sales Growth

Wendy's Company Sees FY24 Adjusted EPS Of $0.99-$1.01 Vs. $0.99 Estimate (Prior View: $0.98-$1.02)

Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.25 per share which met the analyst consensus estimate. The company reported quarterly sales of $566.739 million which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $560.746 million by 1.07 percent. This is a 2.94 percent increase over sales of $550.555 million the same period last year.

Earnings Beats

Wendy's Q3 2024 Adj. EPS $0.25, Inline, Sales $566.739M Beat $560.746M Estimate

Wendy's's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NYSE">WEN</a>) short percent of float has fallen 7.67% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 12.39 million shares sold short, which is 8.43% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 3.3 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Wendy's Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1729884612_0_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Wendy's has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Wendy's's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Wendy's's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 11.04%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

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Peering Into Wendy's's Recent Short Interest

In the latest quarter, 18 analysts provided ratings for Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>), showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The table below offers a condensed view of their recent ratings, showcasing the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">16</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">10</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for Wendy's, presenting an average target of $19.49, a high estimate of $29.00, and a low estimate of $17.00. This current average represents a 3.47% decrease from the previous average price target of $20.19. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1729105209_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Decoding Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Look</h2>
The standing of Wendy's among financial experts is revealed through an in-depth exploration of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Charles</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jon Tower</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$18.75</td>
<td>$18.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>John Ivankoe</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Charles</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ivan Feinseth</td>
<td>Tigress Financial</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$29.00</td>
<td>$29.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$18.00</td>
<td>$19.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lauren Silberman</td>
<td>Deutsche Bank</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$18.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris O'Cull</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Strelzik</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jeffrey Bernstein</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$18.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Mullan</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$23.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$18.00</td>
<td>$19.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$19.50</td>
<td>$19.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Salera</td>
<td>Stephens &amp; Co.</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Setyan</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$19.50</td>
<td>$21.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Wendy's. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Wendy's compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts provide insights into price targets, offering estimates for the future value of Wendy's's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of Wendy's's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WEN/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Wendy's analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Delving into Wendy's's Background</h2>
The Wendy's Company is the second-largest burger quick-service restaurant, or QSR, chain in the United States by systemwide sales, with $12.3 billion in 2023, narrowly edging Burger King ($11.5 billion) and clocking in well behind wide-moat McDonald's ($53.1 billion). After divestitures of Tim Hortons (2006) and Arby's (2011), the firm manages just the burger banner, generating sales across a footprint that spanned almost 7,157 total stores in 30 countries as of year-end 2023. Wendy's generates revenue from the sale of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and fries throughout its company-owned footprint, through franchise royalty and marketing fund payments remitted by its franchisees, which account for 94% of stores, and through franchise flipping and advisory fees.
<h3>Wendy's: A Financial Overview</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization reflects a smaller scale relative to peers. This could be attributed to factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Wendy's's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 1.63% as of 30 June, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Consumer Discretionary sector.
Net Margin: Wendy's's net margin excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 9.57%. This signifies efficient cost management and strong financial health.
Return on Equity (ROE): Wendy's's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 19.26%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): Wendy's's ROA lags behind industry averages, suggesting challenges in maximizing returns from its assets. With an ROA of 1.06%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial performance.
Debt Management: Wendy's's debt-to-equity ratio surpasses industry norms, standing at 14.99. This suggests the company carries a substantial amount of debt, posing potential financial challenges.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
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18 Analysts Assess Wendy's: What You Need To Know

TD Cowen analyst Andrew Charles maintains Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Hold and raises the price target from $17 to $19.

TD Cowen Maintains Hold on Wendy's, Raises Price Target to $19

In the current session, the stock is trading at $19.06, after a 2.36% spike. Over the past month, Wendy's Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) stock increased by 7.30%, and in the past year, by 1.32%. With performance like this, long-term shareholders are optimistic but others are more likely to look into the price-to-earnings ratio to see if the stock might be overvalued.

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728918010_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>Comparing Wendy's P/E Against Its Peers</h3>
The P/E ratio is used by long-term shareholders to assess the company's market performance against aggregate market data, historical earnings, and the industry at large. A lower P/E could indicate that shareholders do not expect the stock to perform better in the future or it could mean that the company is undervalued. 
Wendy's has a lower P/E than the aggregate P/E of 82.01 of the Hotels, Restaurants &amp; Leisure industry. Ideally, one might believe that the stock might perform worse than its peers, but it's also probable that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728918010_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In conclusion, the price-to-earnings ratio is a useful metric for analyzing a company's market performance, but it has its limitations. While a lower P/E can indicate that a company is undervalued, it can also suggest that shareholders do not expect future growth. Additionally, the P/E ratio should not be used in isolation, as other factors such as industry trends and business cycles can also impact a company's stock price. Therefore, investors should use the P/E ratio in conjunction with other financial metrics and qualitative analysis to make informed investment decisions.

Intraday Update

Markets

P/E Ratio Insights for Wendy's

Citigroup analyst Jon Tower maintains Wendy's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $18 to $18.75.

Citigroup Maintains Neutral on Wendy's, Raises Price Target to $18.75

Restaurant company Wendy's Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>) may have a secret weapon up its sleeve in the battle of fast food restaurants as the industry competes<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants"> to win customers.</a>
What Happened: While most restaurants are focused on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39428015/mcdonalds-announces-5-value-meal-as-it-looks-to-win-back-customers-were-committed-to-winning-the-val">value menu offerings,</a> Wendy's is turning its attention to a collaboration with one of the most well-known television characters in the last 25 years.
Wendy's announced Wednesday that it is collaborating with Paramount Global (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PARA#NASDAQ">PARA</a>)(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PARAA#NASDAQ">PARAA</a>) owned Nickelodeon to celebrate the 25th anniversary of "SpongeBob SquarePants."
The restaurant company is rolling out its Krabby Patty Kollab that includes several menu items available at participating Wendy's locations for a limited time beginning Oct. 8. On Oct. 7 a Los Angeles location will offer an early sneak peek of the collaboration with "an immersive Wendy's drive-thru experience."
Wendy's is launching the following unique exclusive menu items:
<ul>
<li>Pineapple Under the Sea Frosty: iconic vanilla frosty with pineapple mango flavored puree swirl</li>
<li>Krabby Patty Kollab Burger: quarter pound of Wendy's fresh, never frozen beef, with two slices of American cheese, crip lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, and a top-secret Krabby Kollab sauce on a toasted premium bun</li>
<li>"The Krabby Patty Kollab menu items are worth the wait for both ‘SpongeBob SquarePants' fands and Wendy's customers alike," the restaurant company said.</li>
</ul>
Wendy's will be the exclusive restaurant brand to partner on the "SpongeBob SquarePants" inspired menu items.
"In a world of people cutting corners, Wendy's is known for quality in everything we do – from our fresh, famous food to collaborations with brands that our fans love," Wendy's U.S. Chief Marketing Officer Lindsay Radkoski said.
Radkoski said the hope is that fans of all ages enjoy the collaboration of "two of the most iconic squares in pop culture."
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40103091/wendys-q2-performance-revenue-below-expectations-increased-costs-impact-operating-profit">Wendy&#8217;s Q2 Performance: Revenue Below Expectations, Increased Costs Impact Operating Profit</a>
Why It's Important: The partnership could prove beneficial for Wendy's. It will likely highlight the company's unique square beef patties on its burgers. The partnership also highlights how Wendy's went from having one Frosty flavor to offering limited time flavors.
In 2006, Wendy's launched a vanilla Frosty alongside its signature chocolate flavor. Over the years, Wendy's has also offered flavors like strawberry, orange dreamsicle and triple berry.
Restaurant companies have been partnering with celebrities for years mainly through advertisements. McDonald's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>) turned to celebrities for partnered meals that in some cases brought huge traffic to locations. McDonald's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/22/09/29059898/happy-meals-for-adults-coming-to-mcdonalds-heres-how-kanye-west-could-be-involved">partnered with the likes </a>of BTS, Saweetie, J Balvin and Travis Scott on meals.
Wendy's missed revenue estimates in the second quarter. Over the last five quarters, the company has missed revenue five straight times. However, it beat earnings per share expectations three times, according to data <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100224&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">from Benzinga Pro</a>.
The restaurant company is expected to report third-quarter financial results in October. While the quarter won't include the results of the SpongeBob collaboration, the report could be a potential catalyst for Wendy's.
If the company misses estimates, it could focus on the fourth quarter and how the collaboration is performing. If the company beats estimates, it could have extra optimism if it can point to how the collaboration is performing.
Price Action: Wendy's stock is down 1.1% to $17.46 on Wednesday, versus a 52-week trading range of $15.62 to $20.65.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/06/39316216/wendys-is-a-show-me-story-goldman-sachs-analyst-says-fast-food-joints-like-chipotle-dominos-a">Wendy&#8217;s Is A &#8216;Show Me&#8217; Story, Goldman Sachs Analyst Says: Fast Food Joints Like Chipotle, Domino&#8217;s Are Still Hot</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

PARA

PARAA

Wendy's Is Ready, Kids (And Adults): SpongeBob SquarePants Collaboration Includes Pineapple Frosty, Krabby Patty Burgers

During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/yield-investments"> high dividend payout</a>.
Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on their favorite stocks by visiting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Traders can sort through Benzinga's extensive database of analyst ratings, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">by analyst accuracy</a>.
Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the consumer discretionary sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Kohl&#8217;s Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KSS#NYSE">KSS</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 9.66%</li>
<li>JP Morgan analyst Matthew Boss downgraded rating on the stock from Neutral to Underweight with a price target of $19 on Aug. 29. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 68%.</li>
<li>Evercore ISI Group analyst Michael Binetti maintained an In-Line rating and slashed the price target from $22 to $20 on Aug. 29. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 62%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Aug. 28, Kohl's posted better-than-expected second-quarter financial results.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100224&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">latest KSS news</a>.</li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100224&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="905" height="847" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083526/image-4.png" alt="" class="wp-image-576408" style="width:692px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083526/image-4.png 905w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083526/image-4-300x281.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083526/image-4-768x719.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Guess?, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GES#NYSE">GES</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 6.09%</li>
<li>Small Cap Consumer Research analyst Eric Beder reiterated a Buy rating with a price target of $29 on Oct. 1. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 64%.</li>
<li>Telsey Advisory Group analyst Dana Telsey maintained a Market Perform rating and cut the price target from $26 to $21 on Aug. 29. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 61%</li>
<li>Recent News: On Aug. 28, Guess? reported worse-than-expected second-quarter adjusted EPS results and cut its FY25 adjusted EPS guidance below estimates.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100224&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">lerted to latest GES news</a>.</li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100224&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="897" height="837" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083551/image-5.png" alt="" class="wp-image-576410" style="width:699px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083551/image-5.png 897w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083551/image-5-300x280.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083551/image-5-768x717.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 897px) 100vw, 897px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Wendy&#8217;s Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 5.66%</li>
<li>JP Morgan analyst John Ivankoe maintained a Neutral rating and raised the price target from $20 to $22 on Sept. 16. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 75%.</li>
<li>TD Cowen analyst Andrew Charles reiterated a Hold rating with a price target of $17 on Sept. 9. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 80%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Sept. 16, The Wendy&#8217;s Company announced executive leadership appointments.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s charting tool helped identify the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100224&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">trend in WEN stock.</a> </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent100224&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="908" height="837" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083643/image-2-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-576411" style="width:641px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083643/image-2-3.png 908w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083643/image-2-3-300x277.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02083643/image-2-3-768x708.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 908px) 100vw, 908px" /></a></figure>
Read More: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/09/41102060/jim-cramer-hand-picks-these-3-stocks-to-ride-the-crest-of-the-chinese-stimulus-frenzy">Jim Cramer Hand Picks These 3 Stocks To Ride The Crest Of The Chinese Stimulus Frenzy</a></li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="How to Find Dividend Stocks: Scan, Analyze, and Capture with Benzinga Pro" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pVF0O2lsEH4?start=1&#038;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>

Long Ideas

Dividends

Pre-Market Outlook

Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts Give Their Take On 3 Consumer Stocks Delivering High-Dividend Yields

Wendy's's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NYSE">WEN</a>) short percent of float has risen 26.75% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 14.05 million shares sold short, which is 9.57% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 4.52 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Wendy's Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727798424_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Wendy's has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Wendy's's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Wendy's's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 10.80%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

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