Wednesday, October 28, 2026

The Zacks Research Daily presents the best research output of our analyst team. Today's Research Daily features new research reports on 16 major stocks, including Tesla, Inc. (TSLA), Netflix, Inc. (NFLX) and American Express Co. (AXP), as well as two micro-cap stocks The InterGroup Corp. (INTG) and Moving iMage Technologies, Inc. (MITQ). The Zacks microcap research is unique as our research content on these small and under-the-radar companies is the only research of its type in the country.

These research reports have been hand-picked from the roughly 70 reports published by our analyst team today.

You can see all of today’s research reports here >>>

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You can read today's AWS here >>> Big Day for Econ Data, Hyperscaler Earnings

Today's Featured Research Reports

Tesla’s shares have outperformed the Zacks Automotive - Domestic industry over the past six months (+9.3% vs. +9.1%). The company’s vehicle backlog, rising FSD subscriptions and expanding Robotaxi fleet strengthen its long-term software and mobility prospects. Demand for energy storage, supported by data center expansion and new Megapack capacity, adds another growth avenue. 

Charging, insurance and other services revenues also diversify its business. Cash generation and liquidity provide flexibility to fund these initiatives. However, lower vehicle selling prices, declining regulatory credit revenues and rising operating expenses pressure profitability and near-term earnings. 

Heavy investments in AI, robotics and manufacturing could constrain free cash flow. Battery supply limitations and regulatory hurdles add execution risks, while a stretched valuation leaves limited room for setbacks. Thus, the stock warrants a cautious stance now. 

(You can read the full research report on Tesla here >>>)

Shares of Netflix have underperformed the Zacks Broadcast Radio and Television industry over the past six months (-32.1% vs. -25.8%). The company’s 2026 advertising outlook was cut to about $2.7 billion from roughly $3 billion, and fourth-quarter margin is guided to 26% due to headcount reductions. Competition for viewing time remains intense. Content obligations of $25.2 billion, gross debt of $15.3 billion and record buybacks demand continued cash discipline.

Nevertheless, Netflix's investment case remains balanced. Third-quarter 2026 revenue rose 12% to $12.87 billion, in line with forecast, while operating margin expanded to 34.6% from 28.2%, helped by expense timing. Management expects full-year 2026 revenue of about $51.1 billion, up 13%, with operating margin of 31.5% and free cash flow of roughly $12 billion. 

Pricing, improved churn and a global audience approaching one billion people support the subscription engine, while partnerships with TF1 and Disney broaden content. 

(You can read the full research report on Netflix here >>>)

American Express’ shares have declined -0.3% over the past six months against the Zacks Financial - Miscellaneous Services industry’s decline of -6.6%. The company’s expenses rose 11% YoY in the first nine months, outpacing revenue growth and reflecting higher customer engagement and operating costs. Credit performance remains strong, but macroeconomic pressures could affect spending and credit costs. A sizable debt burden and regulatory uncertainty add risks.

Nevertheless, American Express’ third-quarter earnings beat estimates. It benefits from its differentiated Membership Model, strong Card Member spending and sustained customer acquisition, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. 

Travel, dining, partnerships and digital initiatives are enhancing its differentiated premium customer value proposition. The proposed TheFork acquisition could expand its lifestyle ecosystem and international reach. In the first nine months of 2026, total revenues grew 10% YoY. 

(You can read the full research report on American Express here >>>)

Shares of InterGroup have declined -17.5% over the past six months against the Zacks Real Estate - Development industry’s decline of -24.9%. This microcap company with a market capitalization of $74.84 million is facing substantial debt, approaching loan maturities, rising financing costs and refinancing uncertainty -- all of which pose significant risks. Restricted cash availability and declining operating cash flow further constrain flexibility. Dependence on a single hotel, rising labor costs and rent regulations could pressure margins. Valuation discounts to industry on EV/sales basis. 

Nevertheless, InterGroup's improving hotel demand, stronger room pricing and higher occupancy supported a return to profitability in fiscal 2026. Rising operating income, lower mortgage interest expenses and stronger rental margins further supported earnings. 

Hotel renovations, additional guestrooms, its Hilton affiliation and a favorable location enhance competitive positioning and revenue potential. Its diversified rental portfolio provides stable income, while disciplined cost management and strategic asset sales strengthen financial flexibility and support debt reduction. 

(You can read the full research report on InterGroup here >>>)

Moving iMage Technologies’ shares have underperformed the Zacks Technology Services industry over the past six months (-17.9% vs. -14.1%). This microcap company with a market capitalization of $5.20 million is facing persistent revenue declines. Project delays are weakening its growth visibility. Negative operating cash flow, declining cash reserves and elevated inventory risks could constrain investments. 

Shrinking backlog adds uncertainty to future revenues, while slow commercialization of emerging technologies limits diversification. The stock trades at a discount to industry peers on EV/sales basis. Nevertheless, MiT benefits from the DCS acquisition, which expands its proprietary offerings and global reach. Integrated cinema solutions create cross-selling opportunities and encourage repeat business. 

Recent theater upgrades demonstrate its product breadth and ability to address diverse customer requirements. A diversified customer base limits concentration risks, while its debt-free balance sheet provides financial flexibility. International expansion and stronger dealer relationships could support sustained demand. 

(You can read the full research report on Moving iMage Technologies here >>>)

Other noteworthy reports we are featuring today include Danaher Corp. (DHR), ICICI Bank Ltd. (IBN) and Fastenal Co. (FAST).

Mark Vickery
Senior Editor

Note: Sheraz Mian heads the Zacks Equity Research department and is a well-regarded expert of aggregate earnings. He is frequently quoted in the print and electronic media and publishes the weekly Earnings Trends and Earnings Preview reports. If you want an email notification each time Sheraz publishes a new article, please click here>>>