Trending Tickers: $AVGO Buyback, $X Deal Doubts, $CVS CFO Shift
This week, several stocks caught investors’ attention, driven by significant developments and market momentum. Here’s the breakdown of this week’s trending stocks:
$AVGO Announces $10 Billion Share Repurchase Program
Broadcom Inc. ($AVGO) has announced a $10 billion share repurchase program, approved by its board of directors and set to run through December 31, 2025. The announcement comes amid a period of heavy pressure on the stock, which has fallen from $250 to $150 in recent months, with the decline accelerating last week following former President Trump’s tariff proposal that rattled semiconductor names.
According to the company, the buyback reflects confidence in Broadcom’s cash flow strength and strategic positioning across semiconductors and infrastructure software—especially in areas related to generative AI and hyperscale computing platforms.
In a statement, CEO Hock Tan said Broadcom is “uniquely positioned in mission-critical infrastructure software and enabling hyperscalers to drive innovation in generative AI.” CFO Kirsten Spears added that the repurchase program “allows us to deliver value to our stockholders” while maintaining financial flexibility.
- Structure: Broadcom stated that repurchases may be carried out via open market or private transactions, depending on stock price, market conditions, and other business factors.
- Flexibility: The company is not obligated to repurchase any specific amount and can suspend or terminate the program at any time.
- Strategic Focus: Management reaffirmed its commitment to capital returns and continued investment in AI-related technologies and infrastructure software.
Stock Price Movement
$AVGO initially dropped over 8% in pre-market trading amid broader market weakness, but as sentiment improved throughout the day—and following the buyback announcement—the stock reversed course, closing up more than 5%.
U.S. Steel ($X) Acquisition by Nippon Steel Faces Renewed Uncertainty
The proposed $14.9 billion acquisition of United States Steel Corporation ($X) by Japan’s Nippon Steel has once again entered political crosshairs, following mixed signals from former President Donald Trump. Initially announced in December 2023, the deal has faced opposition from both the Biden and Trump camps, largely due to national security and supply chain concerns.
Background and Biden’s Initial Block
In January 2025, the Biden administration blocked the acquisition, citing risks to U.S. critical infrastructure and steel independence. Both companies pushed back with legal challenges, claiming the review process was biased and politically motivated.
Trump’s Reassessment and Shift
While Trump initially opposed the deal, in February 2025, he hinted at a possible middle ground, suggesting Nippon Steel could invest in U.S. Steel without full ownership. On April 7, Trump formally ordered CFIUS to revisit the deal within 45 days, triggering optimism that the acquisition might move forward with revised terms.
However, on April 9, Trump appeared to reverse course, saying he did not want U.S. Steel “transferred to Japan,” and emphasized his preference for keeping the company under U.S. ownership.
Stock Price Movement
On April 7, shares of U.S. Steel ($X) surged over 14% following Trump’s directive for CFIUS to reassess the Nippon Steel deal, as investors speculated the acquisition might be revived; however, the optimism was short-lived—on April 9, the stock dropped 13% in after-hours trading after Trump stated he did not want U.S. Steel “transferred to Japan,” reigniting doubts about the deal’s viability.
CVS Health ($CVS) Reaffirms 2025 Goals, Appoints New Finance Chief
CVS Health ($CVS), a major U.S. healthcare services provider spanning retail pharmacies, insurance, and care delivery, announced a leadership shake-up as it looks to regain investor confidence following a 40% stock decline in 2024. The company named Brian Newman, former CFO of UPS, as its incoming Chief Financial Officer, while Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips will join as Chief Medical Officer. Current CFO Tom Cowhey will transition to a strategic advisor role on May 12.
The announcement came with a reassuring update: based on performance through February, CVS expects to meet or exceed its full-year 2025 financial guidance. The company noted, however, that Q1 financial closing procedures are still underway and final results could shift slightly.
The guidance affirmation follows a challenging year for CVS, marked by rising costs and execution concerns tied to its pivot toward vertically integrated healthcare. The leadership changes are part of CEO David Joyner’s broader effort to rebuild momentum and operational focus.
Stock Price Movement
$CVS stock soared around 6% on Tuesday following the news announcement, despite a broader market decline driven by tariff concerns.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell securities. The content is based on publicly available information and reflects the author’s opinions as of the publication date, which may change without notice. All investments carry inherent risks, including the potential loss of principal, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Forward-looking statements, including references to projected revenues, market trends, or business developments, are based on current expectations and assumptions. Actual results may differ due to various factors, including regulatory changes, economic conditions, competitive pressures, and unforeseen market fluctuations. Readers should conduct their own research or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions. BBAE holds no position in the securities mentioned, nor are they compensated by the companies mentioned.
