On today's episode of the Zacks Friday Finish Line podcast, Content Writer Ryan McQueeney and Editor
Maddy Johnson take on this week’s biggest story: the continued efforts of Amazon to take over the
retail world.
First, the hosts took a look at some much-needed good news from Chipotle (CMG). The struggling fast-
casual Mexican chain’s stock popped on Thursday after an analyst upgrade and price target increase by
Wedbush.
Find out more here: Here's Why Chipotle is Gaining
Next, Maddy and Ryan talked about the latest news in the domestic auto industry. Shares of Tesla
Motors (TSLA) fell in after-hours trading Tuesday following the company’s Q4 and full-year vehicle
delivery announcement. Tesla said that it delivered about 22,200 vehicles in the fourth quarter, bringing
its total to 76,230 for the year, which missed estimates.
Ford Motor Company also snatched headlines this week as its stock jumped more than 2.5% in morning
trading Tuesday following the automaker’s announcement that it is cancelling plans to build a new
manufacturing plant in Mexico and instead will invest $700 million in its home state of Michigan.
Check out both stories here: Tesla Misses Full-Year Vehicle Delivery Projections & Ford Stock Gaining on
Mexico Plant Cancellation
Next up was the news that President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson,
reached a deal with ExxonMobil (XOM) that will see him relinquish his role as CEO in compliance with
conflict of interest requirements.
Get at all the details here: ExxonMobil, Rex Tillerson Reach Deal to Cut Ties
Finally, the main story this week was the chaos unleashed in retail recently. Amazon (AMZN) made
headlines this week with its recent movements to get into the fashion industry, including its bid for
bankrupt American Apparel and the development of its own in-house line of athleisure wear.
Maddy took a moment to explain the trend of athleisure, which is dominated by brands like Nike (NKE)
and Lululemon (LULU), and told everyone why Amazon might not be well-equipped to make a serious
play in the business.
The hosts also looked at the dismal holiday sales numbers of Macy’s (M) and Kohl’s (KSS), which both
clearly struggled this year thanks, at least in part, to Amazon. Maddy and Ryan ended the show with a
quick look at Sears Holdings (SHLD), another struggling retailer that is desperately trying to stop the
bleeding.
Read more here: Kohl's, Macy's Plummet on Dismal Holiday Season Sales & Here's Why Sears Holdings
Stock Is Gaining Today
As always, thanks for checking out this week’s episode of the Zacks Friday Finish Line, and make sure to
check back next week for even more news from the investment and financial world!
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