European stocks started the day on May 21 with a slightly weaker note, marking a retreat from their recent impressive performance, with attention now shifting towards the upcoming earnings report from NVIDIA. The Stoxx 600 index dipped by 0.2%, showing a predominantly negative trend across most sectors, while futures for US equities remained relatively unchanged. Options markets in the US indicate significant anticipation for NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) earnings report this Wednesday, with traders expecting a notable shift in the chipmaker’s shares, reported Reuters.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon signaled that his retirement might be closer than ever. This news could have a significant impact on the banking industry. Trump Media Enterprises, the media company founded by former President Donald Trump, reported a net loss of $327.6 million in the first quarter of 2024, despite generating only $770,500 in revenue. Home improvement retailer Lowe’s Companies reported better-than-expected earnings despite signs that consumers might be cutting back on spending on DIY projects. Bitcoin is currently experiencing a significant price increase, breaking the $71,000 mark for the first time since early April. Ethereum (Ether) is also experiencing a strong rally, jumping over 20% in response to ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund) optimism. This could signal increased institutional interest in the cryptocurrency space.

Meanwhile, in Asia, shares took a breather following a week-long streak of gains. Investors remained vigilant regarding commodity prices, especially with the Bloomberg Commodity Spot Index hitting its highest point since January 2023. Notably, gold and copper were trading near their historical peaks, adding to the market’s attention.

On another front, oil prices experienced a decline, influenced by various market metrics suggesting a subdued outlook, despite heightened geopolitical tensions ahead of an OPEC+ meeting on supply. Brent crude’s prompt spread narrowed to its smallest backwardation since January, indicating a potential shift in market dynamics, while the reduction in bets on crude price increases continued among money managers. Futures trading reflected a period of consolidation, with implied volatility levels nearing lows not seen since 2019.

From Chinese property market side, analysts suggest that China’s recent efforts to bolster the property sector will require patience to yield results. Despite these initiatives, S&P maintains its view that the market is still “searching for a bottom.” Edward Chan from S&P emphasizes the government’s seriousness in stabilizing the property sector but notes that significant stabilization requires improvements in homebuyers’ demand and confidence, which have been affected by a nearly three-year market downturn. According to CNBC, recent measures, including lowered down payment minimums and enhanced liquidity for developers, aim to address the challenges. However, analysts like Goldman Sachs’ Hui Shan and Nomura’s Ting Lu believe more substantial actions are needed, estimating a significant funding requirement to address inventory excess and stabilize prices. While progress is noted, challenges persist, as indicated by declining real estate investment and slower-than-expected retail sales growth. Rebuilding homebuyer confidence is crucial, particularly concerning delivery delays and economic uncertainty. Analysts anticipate further efforts from Beijing, including a national survey to assess funding needs for completing residential projects. Ultimately, restoring confidence in the presale system is seen as essential for a genuine recovery in China’s housing markets. As market players navigate these developments, attention remains keenly focused on unfolding events and their potential impact on investment strategies and market sentiment.

On the stock market front, analysts are bearish on stocks such as NICE Ltd. (NASDAQ:NICE) by lowering their price targets. For a comprehensive overview of NICE Ltd. (NASDAQ:NICE) and other stocks affected by such adjustments, see Wall Street Analysts Just Trimmed Price Targets for These 10 Stocks .

NICE Ltd. (NASDAQ:NICE)

Price Reaction after the Price Target Cut: -5.05(-2.54%)

On May 17, BofA Securities revised its forecast for NICE Ltd. (NASDAQ:NICE) shares, lowering the price target from $300 to $270. Following this adjustment, there was a notable price reaction, with the stock decreasing by 2.54%. NICE Ltd. (NASDAQ:NICE), operating in the technology sector, faced this downward revision in its price target, signaling potential challenges ahead.

Vulcan Value Partners stated the following regarding NICE Ltd. (NASDAQ:NICE) in its first quarter 2024 investor letter:

“NICE Ltd. (NASDAQ:NICE) is a global enterprise software company that provides mission-critical contact center software. The company continues to perform well, and fundamentals are strong. Cloud revenue has grown in line with our expectations. We believe that generative AI will continue to drive cloud adoption and that AI is an opportunity rather than a threat to NICE’s business.”

You can visit Wall Street Analysts Just Trimmed Price Targets for These 10 Stocks to see the other stocks that are downgraded.

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Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.