This article on Investment Ideas focuses on Kroger and Albertsons.
Kroger (KR) and Albertsons (ACI) stocks have been close to their highest levels in the past year, serving as a safe option during the recent ups and downs in the market.
Albertsons Companies (ACI) experienced a significant rise in its stock price during the last trading session, with trading volume exceeding the usual amount. However, the recent changes in earnings estimates might not lead to additional price increases in the short term.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s health policies are likely to change what consumers want, leading them to choose fresher and healthier foods, which could help grocery companies like Albertsons. Albertsons has a varied business approach, good value, and a focus on healthy products that match the expected shift in consumer habits. Even though the Kroger merger was stopped, Albertsons' strong operations and better financial results, such as higher revenue and free cash flow, make it an attractive investment option.
On March 3, Albertsons Companies announced that CEO Vivek Sankaran will retire on May 1. He will be replaced by Susan Morris, who is currently the Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, starting on the same day. Morris will also become part of Albertsons Companies.
OMAHA, Neb.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ACI Worldwide (NASDAQ: ACIW), a pioneer in global payments technology, has announced that it will share its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024 on Thursday, February 27, 2025. The management team will hold a conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time to go over these results. Those interested can join the live teleconference webcast at http://investor.aciworldwide.com/ or call in using the provided toll-free number.
OMAHA, Neb. & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ACI Worldwide (NASDAQ:ACIW), a pioneer in global payments technology, has expanded its fintech partnership network by teaming up with Banfico, a top fintech company focused on regulatory technology, global account verification, and Open Banking solutions. ACI handles account-to-account payments for numerous payment service providers in Europe and the UK, offering leading instant payment solutions. This collaboration with Banfico aims to enhance their services further.
An Alsip man was asked to leave the Palos Park Jewel-Osco last Thursday and is now accused of stealing an employee's backpack and attacking him in the parking lot. The incident occurred around 10:11 p.m. when the employee, who was finishing his shift, discovered his backpack was missing after placing it on a bench. When he confronted the suspect, identified as Jason L. Garza, he was punched multiple times in the face, leading to Garza's arrest and hospitalization.
Tariffs and currency challenges are affecting costs and exchange rates, which makes US retail and service stocks a good option for protection. Important sectors to look at are home improvement, grocery, automotive retail, and waste management. Protecting against tariff risks is likely to be a significant focus in the coming years.
ACI Worldwide is an established company in the digital payments industry, seeing its stock rise by more than 75% in the last year. The company serves over 6,000 clients worldwide, with notable revenue increases in banking and merchant sectors, and 66.7% of its income comes from recurring sources. Even with external challenges like currency changes, ACIW's solid financial results and strong position in the US market support a buy recommendation and a target stock price of $61.8.