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#been doing some max huang research for the next bits
whatifxwereyou · 3 years
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The Oncoming Storm Part 16: The Road Ahead
Liu Kang x Reader and Kung Lao x Reader (gonna do both, two paths!)
Here we go! Yay! I'm excited for the decision you guys made and worked on planning it out last night. Looking forward to some more Kung Lao followed by some delightful Liu Kang, followed by some shenanigans- and then the big choice. Then the fic will split and change names depending on who you wish to follow. I also have two more new fics on the way. I'm still sorting out the notes for those. One will be Liu, the other Lao. Lao's will be very action oriented and Liu's will be a bit more psychological. Hope you are all having a fantastic Monday! Much love and thanks for reading!
Part 15 Part 17 Chapter Index
You mulled over the decision but not for long. It wasn’t a difficult one. “I don’t see why we shouldn’t do it how you’re suggesting.” You shrugged. Kung Lao adjusted behind you. You were still weary but felt stronger as time passed, though marginally so. “If Kung Lao is excited about going to Japan, then he can come with me to Japan.” Just to prove that you could, you sat upright though you felt the weight of your body was still a bit too much for you. Kung Lao placed his hand on your lower back to help support you without drawing any attention to your wobbliness. You were very appreciative of his discretion. Every movement you made that was off, sent Liu Kang’s blood pressure through the roof. “And if Liu Kang is familiar with Huangshan, then that will give us a leg up there. We could use any advantage we can find. If I remember correctly, the Yellow Mountains are huge.”
Liu Kang nodded to confirm that it was true. You didn’t remember much about Huangshan other than what you had read about in school. From the little you did remember you were grateful to have a guide so you wouldn’t have to hike for days to search for an obscure point hidden amongst the rocks.
“Then it is decided.” Raiden looked to you for confirmation and you nodded.
“For the record, I promise that I’m not just excited about Japan and the festival. I’ve spent some time there so I’m familiar with getting around. Not specifically Mount Osore, of course but some familiarity is better than none.” Kung Lao then leaned closer to you and whispered with a grin in Japanese. “I’ll make sure that we’re both safe.” You smiled fondly. You spoke enough Japanese to get by. Your mother had grown up in Chiba and had spoken it often in your youth. You weren’t practiced and would likely be barely conversational but could get by better than most. You’d always wanted to go to Japan. This was a funny way to go about achieving that dream. Honestly, you’d never left home other than a few trips to Vietnam to take your students to competitions.
“Your trip will give me time to do a bit of research in Huangshan. I’ll do my best to see what I can find out before you meet me there.”
You urged Kung Lao’s hand away from your lower back and scooted away from his lap where he’d held you. Liu Kang, still crouched nearby, reached for your hand, and urged his fingers to your wrist to check for a pulse. You sighed and watched as Kung Lao tried not to laugh at your frustration. You waited patiently for Liu to get what he needed but when he didn’t let go, you decided to swat his hand away.
He smiled and turned his gaze, aware that he had lingered for much longer than necessary. The air in Raiden’s chamber was stifling. Between the haze of magic that you’d cooked up and being somewhat sandwiched between two of your favorite people, you could barely breathe. You were suddenly ecstatic to spend some time away from Raiden’s Temple. Not that you didn’t appreciate it. You did! But it would be nice to see the rest of the world. Yours had shrunk from your hometown to this temple and even though it was technically bigger than your hometown it was also out of time, in a way.
“We can head out as soon as Lord Raiden is ready to send us off.” Kung Lao seemed excited. “Right?”
“Immediately?” Liu objected.
“Why not? What are we waiting on, you think?”
“Do you really think that it’s the best idea to leave right this second, Kung Lao? Y/N just had a vision last night. And after what we just witnessed she can barely sit upright.” Liu Kang counted the reasons on his fingers. “Not to mention that I’m burnt out. I need rest.”
“Wow, the pun.”
“…not intended.” Liu considered and seemed pleased.
“Bull.” You teased and Kung Lao laughed and offered you a high five which you reciprocated. Liu rolled his eyes at them both with a heavy sigh.
“Joking aside, wouldn’t it be wise to take a day and be better prepared?”
“That seems like a waste of time.”
“There’s plenty to do today, Kung Lao. Find a place to stay while we’re there. Food. Clothing. Timing. Research where and how to approach this…” Liu counted the reasons again on his fingers.
“I…” You began.
“We can figure that out just as easily when we get to where we’re going.”
“And what if we’re attacked?”
“You really think that something’s going to hunt us the moment we arrive?”
“I don’t think-“ You tried again.
“Not the moment we arrive but we have to consider the possibility considering the way that voice spoke and what Lord Raiden saw.”
You decided to tune them out as they argued. Considering it was about you and your trip you were a little annoyed that they were talking as though you were not there in the room to help decide. You could feel Lord Raiden’s piercing gaze on you as if he were curious to see how you would handle being talked over.
“Listen, boys, your both pretty,” you spoke loud enough to interrupt them. Liu Kang and Kung Lao silenced, looking to you with wide eyes. “And you both make valid points but I’m making the decision. We’ll leave tomorrow morning. I need a chance to rest and prepare. And no, I’m not making this decision on either of your recommendations. This is what I think is best. I know that I’m too tired to do what needs to be done there today.” You scolded them but did so with a smile. It felt nice to be listened to. “This is my quest and you will follow my lead. Got it? I won’t be talked over and steam rolled by you two.”
“Got it loud and clear.” Kung Lao smirked. “I like take charge Y/N. She’s fun.”
Liu Kang on the other hand still looked incredibly worried. “Yes, of course. I’ll follow where you lead, Y/N.”
Raiden stepped closer and you could see the hint of a smile on his face. You were glad that you’d taken his silent encouragement to interrupt the two brothers. “Tomorrow morning you will meet me here and I will send you on your way.” He then turned to Kung Lao and offered him a look that was also a warning. “Remember, this is important.” Liu Kang narrowed his eyes at his brother as if to warn the same thing. You couldn’t hide your curiosity as to why that was. You would absolutely be asking about it later. What kind of trouble was Kung Lao know for getting into exactly?
“You two worry too much. I’m taking this very seriously.”
“When you are finished in Japan then Kung Lao will call me.” Raiden addressed you without further explanation. “I will return him here and send you to meet with Liu Kang in Huangshan.” How exactly would Kung Lao call upon him? You supposed that he was a god, so there was probably some unspoken magic. You’d make a point to ask Kung Lao about that later, too. It would be easier than asking Raiden. He really was intimidating.
“Will do.” Kung Lao smiled and Liu Kang nodded his agreement.
“I’m going to stop by the infirmary to get checked out now. Just in case. I don’t remember any of what went on here, but I can feel how tired I am.” You were nervous to try and stand on your own, but you also didn’t want to feel anyone else’s worry that day. You’d had enough from Liu the other night. You found his worry sweet, but also a little excessive. Liu Kang seemed surprised and impressed that you were going there on your own without him twisting your arm. Before he could say anything, Kung Lao had jumped to his feet.
“I’ll walk you there.” He offered you a hand. You rejected it and stood on your own, just to prove that you could, even if you hadn’t been positive that you could. It had been worth the effort it turned out, even if your legs were wobbly. Kung Lao had a way of making you wish to prove that you could do things beyond what you thought you were capable of. Even so, he offered his arm, unbothered that you’d ignored his hand. You took it. Your body was exhausted, after all. At least your neck had decided to continue supporting your head. You’d been through a lot lately and were grateful that your body listened to you at all.
“I’ll check in on you later.” Liu assured you and you smiled.
“See you then. Raiden? Thank you.” You bowed politely to them both and Raiden silently acknowledged your gratitude with a bow of his own. There was more that you’d wanted to say to Liu Kang, but Kung Lao was already leading you out of the room. You’d have time to talk to him later. You stole a glance over your shoulder and found him watching you go. Usually when you caught him staring, he would avert his eyes and go about his business but this time he offered you a knowing smile that made your heart flutter. Then he went to speak with Lord Raiden.
Kung Lao led you down the long hallway and around the corner. You pulled from his arm and leaned heavily against the wall once out of sight of Raiden’s chamber. With an exasperated noise, you let your full weight rest against the wall and caught your breath that you’d practically been holding. Your whole body was sore as if you’d worked out far beyond your limit. “I need a second.”
Kung Lao laughed and stood before you, amused. “Exhausted, huh?”
“So exhausted.” You swatted his hand as he reached for you and then whined as he urged his arm around your waist and pulled you away from the wall. You continued like that toward the stairs. He supported most of your weight but didn’t drag you or hurry you too quickly. “Thanks, Lao.”
“No problem, Y/N. Figured you needed an out and a little help to get it. Liu was radiating with worry. Kinda knew you were trying to save face especially after your cute little speech.” He teased but you were grateful that instead of making you sit and breathe, he was just dragging you along like it was no big deal. You did kind of want to lay down and sleep for a year though.
“He worries about me a bit too much, I think. I don’t want him to stress over me. Thank you for helping me do that and not just picking me up like I’m an invalid.”
“I get it. Happy to help.” He shrugged. “Definitely thought about picking you up and doing just that but you seemed particularly defiant after your episode, there.”
“I am feeling particularly defiant.”
“I can tell. And those dragons, Y/N, well, I’m impressed.”
“…how long was I out like that, by the way?”
“Oh, a long while. About an hour, I’d say.”
“An hour?” You gasped, stopping your walk and pulling a bit away from him, just so you could turn to face him. “Raiden and Liu had to keep all that back for that long?” What the hell? You could barely summon an ink jian yesterday and had made dragons, a vortex, and a throne for an hour while you were unconscious!
“Who’s worrying now?”
“No wonder he’s burnt out, Kung Lao! No wonder my body hates me.” You shook out your fingers. They were tingling on and off with numbness. Kung Lao urged you onward.
“Don’t feel bad about it, Y/N. It was awesome.” Kung Lao was beaming with pride. His smile was just like it had been when you were kids, but it suited him better now- with just the slightest hint of dimples and the cutest little wrinkle on his chin.
“It was terrifying. My body did all that without me.”
“When you can control it then you’ll change your tune.”
“Probably but still!” You weren’t sure that you would ever be able to control it to that extent at this point. Honestly, you were still perturbed that it had happened in the first place. Your body and arcana doing things without your permission, speaking in other voices? It was spooky and not in a fun Halloween sort of way. More of in a possessed-by-demons way.
“When we get to Japan, we’ll stop and pick something up to wear to the festival. Probably yukata? Going to look into the appropriate garb.” Kung Lao was apparently done talking about that now.
“You have no idea how much I long for new clothing.”
“Oh? But why?” Kung Lao looked you over while you walked. You were steadier as you went, less losing your footing and wobbling. His grip had relaxed on you, but he still kept his arm around you just in case. Probably. “You’re very cute in the hanfu.”
“Yeah, well your fancy Raiden’s Temple clothing is easier to function in. I need jeans, Kung Lao. Jeans and comfortable shirts! These are pretty but they’re a little too delicate for me. I certainly can’t fight in them. I’m not delicate. You know that.”
“I do. All too well.”
You shoved him playfully, but he didn’t let go of you. “You know what I mean.”
“I do. I get it. Still like the hanfu though.”
“Where did you get all yours, anyway?” You tugged on the jade ring on his belt. You loved what he wore. It was as though it had been personally tailored just for him. He smirked.
“You earn cool clothing with great power, Y/N. Someday you’ll earn your own too.”
“That’s a dumb answer.” You rolled your eyes at him. The trip to the infirmary was just about over and you were grateful for his conversation along the way. Your legs were tired of carrying your body around. Once inside, you waved at Chen who was across the room and surrounded by boxes. Chen smiled at you and held up a finger as if to tell you that she’d be with you in a moment.
You escaped Kung Lao’s arms and turned instead to face him. He folded his arms over his chest and smiled down at you. “Kind of feels like we’re in one of those movies we used to watch at your Grandma’s.” He sounded amused.
“Like Disciples of the 36thChamber?” You recalled one of your favorites. You had nearly destroyed the old VHS tape that your Grandma had recorded it on for you. You’d fast forward through the commercials, seated way too close to the television.
“Or Police Story.”
You smiled fondly in remembrance. Those were some of your happiest memories. You’d spent hours watching your Grandma’s tapes and then you’d go outside and pretend that you were skilled enough to be part of them. You’d held onto those memories tighter than most because he had died. It was still amazing to you that he was there and alive. You really should have talked about it but now wasn’t the time. When would it be though? “I’m not sure that what we’re about to do is going to be anything like those movies but I am pretty excited to remember what the rest of the planet looks like outside of this temple.”
“It’s a healthy reminder. Grounding. This place can be all consuming and a little overwhelming.” You were surprised to find that he understood the idea better than you had expected him to. Kung Lao was very much full of surprises. “Do you need me to stick around or are you okay down here on your own? I don’t love this place. Bad memories. Besides, I’ve got a dozen things to do before the day’s over and we’re on our way to Japan.”
“Oh? Is that so? You were pretty adamant that we leave immediately.” You teased.
“Does that mean you don’t want me to leave? Is that what you’re getting at?” He grinned, eyes sparkling in amusement. His whole face lit up when he smiled. It was remarkable.
“I didn’t say that. I’m just calling your bluff.”
“What bluff?”
“Boy, you can be frustrating.” You shoved his shoulder and he pretended to be pushed back and then smiled.
“Really though, can I go?”
“Go, Kung Lao. I’m fine here. Chen will help me if I need it.”
“Okay, okay.” He laughed and then walked backwards toward the doorway into the hall. “But if you need me then just send someone to find me.”
“Just go!” You laughed and as you turned away, you heard a crash behind you, as though Kung Lao had knocked something over while walking backwards. You did your best to resist looking backwards so that he could save face, but you laughed anyway. Then you took a seat against the far wall of the infirmary, waiting near where Chen was working. Moments later, Chen took the seat next to you with a smile. She looked tired but still happy to see you.
“I noticed that it wasn’t Liu Kang who brought you here today. And that Kung Lao was fully clothed.”
“…do you think that I’m strategically permanently disrobing them or something? I told you what happened this morning.” You furrowed your brow in sincere confusion at the accusation.
“One could hope. Perhaps I gave you too much credit.” Chen laughed and folded her hands neatly in her lap. You sat then in silence for a moment. “Are you here to gush more about Liu or…?”
“Or what? I’m actually here for medical reasons as I so frequently am? Since I have never once ever come to you just to gossip? Especially gossip about myself?”
“Or you could be here to talk about that dopey smile Kung Lao had on and the fact that he knocked over a whole stand of medical supplies on his way out. Or that he was in the infirmary willingly again. I can count the number of times he’s been here on one hand. At least before you got here. And those times were dragged in bloody and beaten.” You didn’t like the mental image of him bloody and beaten.
“You’re the most ridiculous gossip I have ever met.” You whispered in an accusatory tone.
“I know!” She shouted and you held your face in your hands and laughed. Chen had a way of making you smile more than anyone ever had. “Besides, you can do both those things while here. Gossip and the medical stuff. It’s called multitasking, Y/N.”
“I’m leaving for a few days on an errand. Wanted to check in before I go. Today was a lot too and I’m feeling particularly drained.”
Chen frowned.
You felt instantly slighted and turned your gaze to the floor. You were capable. Everyone worried about you, but you’d be fine. You knew this was scary and you kept repeating Raiden’s warning of death in your head, but you could do this. You would fight until your last breath.
“Why are you leaving?”
“Everyone looks at me like that, Chen. I’m fine.” That wasn’t true, you supposed. Kung Lao didn’t often look at you like that. Even as kids he hadn’t.
“Do you want me to list all the reasons that’s a lie? Because I could. I won’t and since you probably have to do this, I’ll send you with extra supplies just in case.” Chen shook her upset away and mustered optimism for your sake. You were grateful. “Are you going with Liu Kang? And more importantly, will you get to have any fun with Liu Kang? Or Kung Lao? I’m not picky at this point. Both very good looking.”
You ignored the gossipy remark and instead explained your vision that morning and very vaguely touched on where you had to go and what you had to do. You weren’t sure how much you should share so you were careful to leave out the most important details. To be honest, you had no idea what you expected to find in either place but it felt good to have a purpose that you knew you could achieve. You very briefly touched on the disturbing incident with Lord Raiden but avoided most of the messy details. You’d been dead unconscious through it, anyway. Chen’s face flickered back and forth between worry and trying to keep a smile up for you. You supposed you couldn’t blame Chen.
“Well, then I’ll make you a little kit to travel with.” Chen patted your shoulder and stood, setting about shoving supplies into a portable first aid kit nearby. She was filling it with the basics but also small bottles of pills and several syringes. She then set about writing instructions for how to use each of them. You were almost certain that you wouldn’t need any of it but were still grateful. “Just in case. Better to have it and not need it then need it and not have it.” She closed the small case and then handed it to you where you placed it in your lap. Then she took both of your hands and sat next to you.
“Thank you, Chen.”
“It’s no problem. This one though? This is a personal prescription given to you by your friend and doctor. Please. Please, I’m begging you. Get drunk. Make some stupid, immature mistakes with one or both of those men. Please? For me? I’m begging. Literally.”
“Ch… I… what?” You stuttered and felt your face burning again. You thought you’d gotten past that today. “Did you not hear the whole part about ancient sacred objects hidden away by a demon creature that I have to find? Or… were you not listening?”
“Oh, no, I heard you. But please… also do the other thing. You can do both. Really. I mean that in every way you can interpret it.” Chen let go of your hands and then tapped the medical kit. “Also, glance over the notes I wrote for you just in case you do need any of this stuff.”
“Oh my God, Chen.” You laughed, leaning your head back against the wall behind your chair. “…thank you for bringing some levity to all this.”
“Thank you for bringing me such delicious gossip all the time.”
You rolled your eyes but still smiled. You were grateful to have Chen looking out for your well-being both physically and mentally. It was so easy to get lost in the haze that was Liu Kang and Kung Lao but with Chen’s constant teasing and joking, it helped you from getting consumed by it. “Would you walk me back to my room by any chance? Not so great on my feet today.”
“Sure, but I’m going to tease you the entire time about Liu Kang being half naked in your room first thing this morning. Still not completely convinced that he was just being comforting unless that word had changed its meaning since I learned it. You kids these days and your slang.”
“Could you possibly keep your voice down?” You stood, slipping the medical kit under your arm.
“It’s fine, Y/N. Everyone in here knows already.”
“I-Chen! What?” You were stuttering again. They all knew? You looked around the room and several of the nearby monks nodded to confirm this was true. Your face was on fire again.
“You’re a fool if you think it’s not super obvious or something. In fact, we have a pool going on down here. One of us is going to be much wealthier after you’ve sorted things out.” Chen shrugged. “I am one of the only people voting for both.”
“You are all terrible monks. Every single one of you.” You said very loudly, and the other monks laughed. Some waved as you and Chen made your way out of the infirmary. Others wished you luck on your journey. One even whispered he was betting on Kung Lao. You suddenly felt very exposed. Were you really that obvious? Chen stayed close to you as you walked and steadied you as she needed to. After you were sure you could talk without dying of embarrassment, you couldn’t help but be curious. “…who’s winning this pool?”
“We all agreed that you’re not allowed to know. I’ll tell you much, much later down the road.”
You laughed, again grateful for Chen and how ridiculous she could be. You were exhausted but also excited for the journey ahead. The next morning you’d be meeting with Kung Lao and travel to Japan to a Buddhist shrine inside a caldera. It was enough to look forward to that it would keep you from dwelling on Chen’s teasing and what Raiden had barely touched upon that morning.
If you didn’t get rid of the shadow hanging over you then you weren’t going to live to see Mortal Kombat.
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preciousmetals0 · 4 years
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China’s Potential Doom; INO’s Biotech Boom
China’s Potential Doom; INO’s Biotech Boom:
Friday Four Play: The “Never Gonna Give You Up” Edition
Happy Valentine’s Day, dear readers!
I don’t have chocolates, roses or even dinner reservations (I know, I’m a horrible date today). But I do have market data and stock gains for Great Stuff readers.
Let’s start with the good news.
U.S. retail sales rose for the fourth consecutive month in January, according to the Department of Commerce. Lower prices at the pump helped drive (ha … drive) gasoline sales, and general merchandise receipts were their strongest in six months.
However, clothiers struggled — which was no surprise if you’ve paid attention to Kohl’s Corp.’s (NYSE: KSS) or J.C. Penney Co. Inc.’s (NYSE: JCP) stocks recently.
As for the bad news, U.S. factory output fell last month, according to data from the Federal Reserve. Manufacturing output dropped 0.1% from December — and December data were even revised lower.
Everyone blamed Boeing Co. (NYSE: BA) for the shortfall, as the airplane-maker halted production of its 737 Max “bus with wings.”
Finally, if you haven’t had your fill of coronavirus news this week, we have recruitment site Zhaopin saying that 10% of firms surveyed are “on the verge of death.”
Another 30% plan to cut jobs, while yet another 30% said they couldn’t pay their workers.
So, we have that going for us in the second-largest economy in the world … which is nice.
Maybe I’ll get those dinner reservations after all. We could all use a pick-me-up right now.
But, whatever your Valentine’s Day plans may be, remember that Great Stuff is never gonna give you up, never gonna let you down … we’ll never run around or desert you!
And now for something completely different … here’s your Friday Four Play:
No. 1: Great Stuff’s Hat Trick
Can you say: “Three wins in a row?” Sure you can … especially if you’re a Great Stuff reader.
Roku Inc. (Nasdaq: ROKU) — a Great Stuff top pick for 2020 and beyond — is on fire today. Shares of the online streaming kingpin surged as much as 11% following the company’s fourth-quarter report.
The company reported a narrower-than-expected loss, Street-beating revenue that surged 49% and a 36% spike in active user accounts. Turns out the holiday shopping season was very good to Roku — just as I said it would be.
“We increased our active account base by almost 10 million over the year to end at 36.9 million,” said Chief Financial Officer Steve Louden.
Looking ahead, Roku sees 2020 revenue of $1.58 billion to $1.62 billion — ahead of the consensus estimate for $1.56 billion. However, the company also expects a net earnings loss of $180 million to $160 million — higher than Wall Street’s targeted loss of $53 million.
Don’t let those losses cloud your judgment here. Roku is spending on growth. It reinvests in the company and spends on things such as improving its TV operating system, international growth and its ad business. This is the good kind of spending that will lead to higher market share and stronger revenue growth.
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For the third time this week: Congratulations!
No. 2: Crypto Is Dead at Nvidia
Long live data centers!
That’s the new rallying cry at Nvidia Corp. (Nasdaq: NVDA). In an earnings report that saw gaming revenue skyrocket 56% (lots of PC-gaming enthusiasts doing holiday shopping), Nvidia shocked Wall Street with $968 million in data center sales.
CEO Jensen Huang said that artificial intelligence (AI) was the real driver behind data center sales. Nvidia has had several breakthroughs in AI that improve the performance of internet search and cloud-based computing, all of which boosted data center results on the quarter.
“All of these key areas were growing,” said CFO Colette Kress. “The industries are still in early stages.”
Nvidia didn’t provide full-year guidance, but with the semiconductor market in a cyclical upswing and 5G rollout pushing capital spending on data center servers, Nvidia is well-positioned to extend its winning streak.
No. 3: Canopy’s Sugar Daddy
Before we get started on Canopy Growth Corp. (NYSE: CGC), I want to draw your attention to today’s pot meme. That’s Banyan Hill expert Anthony Planas, and if you’d like to see his latest “POTcast” video, just click the meme (or click here for the article).
Now then … riding a $4 billion investment from Constellation Brands Inc. (NYSE: STZ), Canopy Growth crushed Wall Street’s third-quarter expectations. The pot purveyor lost C$0.35 per share as revenue rose 49% to C$123.76.
Canopy cited storefront growth and aggressive cost-cutting measures for the improved performance.
What’s more, the company knows that it’s dealing with a tough cannabis market right now. “Make no mistake, we have a lot of work to do,” said CEO David Klein. During the conference call, Klein said the company would take further steps to “rightsize” Canopy’s business during the next 90 days.
And that $4 billion from Constellation? Well … it’s whittled down to about $2.3 billion at this point. However, Canopy noted that this cash has been critical for the company, as financing continues to dry up in the cannabis market.
It turns out that having a sugar daddy in your back pocket really helps in the cannabis market.
No. 4: Just a Bit Outside
Some Great Stuff readers just might be sitting on four wins in a row today. Are you among the lucky few?
In our January 31 issue — “Friday Four Play: The ‘Fear Inoculum’ Edition” — we recommended Inovio Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: INO). The company had just received a $9 million grant to develop a vaccine for the COVID-19 virus — aka, the Wuhan coronavirus.
INO shares have been volatile ever since that bit of news, as fears surrounding the virus ebbed and flowed. Following this week’s surge in infections, Inovio is back in the limelight — thanks in part to its revolutionary system for developing vaccines.
According to a report yesterday, Inovio has a COVID-19 vaccine. In fact, it had one just three hours after the Chinese government released the virus’s DNA sequence!
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The company has already tested the vaccine on rats and plans to start “phase 1” clinical testing in humans this summer. That means a vaccine could be ready to go later this year.
Inovio shares surged over 10% today on the news. Given how volatile this biotech stock has been lately, Great Stuff readers are either back at breakeven or possibly up about 8%.
Once again, let us know how you’re doing with Great Stuff picks. Email us at [email protected]!
Great Stuff: Don’t Know Much Biology
Don’t know much about a science book. Don’t know much about the French I took.
But I do know that I love you, dear readers. (Awwww…)
And I know that this quick rally is welcome news to INO shareholders (and to Great Stuff readers! Woot woot!), but for the rip-roaring biotech sector, it’s all in a day’s work.
Biotech isn’t just known for its life-saving treatments and medicines — it’s also one of the most lucrative sectors to invest in.
But how can I tell an overnight success from an overnight bust?
As you’ve probably seen with Inovio, spotting the best biotech investments isn’t for the faint of heart … and that’s what makes your biotech guide even more important.
For Banyan Hill expert Jeff Yastine, biotech is another gold mine in the making. And today, he has his eye on one company that’s set to revolutionize health care. Even with its life-saving innovation, there’s little hype surrounding this stock today…
And yet, Jeff predicts this stock’s value could triple in the next few years!
Click here to see why Jeff believes this pioneer will soar.
That’s all for this week. But don’t fret, you can get more meme-y market goodness by following us on Facebook and Twitter!
Until next time, good trading!
Regards,
Joseph Hargett
Editor, Great Stuff
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goldira01 · 4 years
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Friday Four Play: The “Never Gonna Give You Up” Edition
Happy Valentine’s Day, dear readers!
I don’t have chocolates, roses or even dinner reservations (I know, I’m a horrible date today). But I do have market data and stock gains for Great Stuff readers.
Let’s start with the good news.
U.S. retail sales rose for the fourth consecutive month in January, according to the Department of Commerce. Lower prices at the pump helped drive (ha … drive) gasoline sales, and general merchandise receipts were their strongest in six months.
However, clothiers struggled — which was no surprise if you’ve paid attention to Kohl’s Corp.’s (NYSE: KSS) or J.C. Penney Co. Inc.’s (NYSE: JCP) stocks recently.
As for the bad news, U.S. factory output fell last month, according to data from the Federal Reserve. Manufacturing output dropped 0.1% from December — and December data were even revised lower.
Everyone blamed Boeing Co. (NYSE: BA) for the shortfall, as the airplane-maker halted production of its 737 Max “bus with wings.”
Finally, if you haven’t had your fill of coronavirus news this week, we have recruitment site Zhaopin saying that 10% of firms surveyed are “on the verge of death.”
Another 30% plan to cut jobs, while yet another 30% said they couldn’t pay their workers.
So, we have that going for us in the second-largest economy in the world … which is nice.
Maybe I’ll get those dinner reservations after all. We could all use a pick-me-up right now.
But, whatever your Valentine’s Day plans may be, remember that Great Stuff is never gonna give you up, never gonna let you down … we’ll never run around or desert you!
And now for something completely different … here’s your Friday Four Play:
No. 1: Great Stuff’s Hat Trick
Can you say: “Three wins in a row?” Sure you can … especially if you’re a Great Stuff reader.
Roku Inc. (Nasdaq: ROKU) — a Great Stuff top pick for 2020 and beyond — is on fire today. Shares of the online streaming kingpin surged as much as 11% following the company’s fourth-quarter report.
The company reported a narrower-than-expected loss, Street-beating revenue that surged 49% and a 36% spike in active user accounts. Turns out the holiday shopping season was very good to Roku — just as I said it would be.
“We increased our active account base by almost 10 million over the year to end at 36.9 million,” said Chief Financial Officer Steve Louden.
Looking ahead, Roku sees 2020 revenue of $1.58 billion to $1.62 billion — ahead of the consensus estimate for $1.56 billion. However, the company also expects a net earnings loss of $180 million to $160 million — higher than Wall Street’s targeted loss of $53 million.
Don’t let those losses cloud your judgment here. Roku is spending on growth. It reinvests in the company and spends on things such as improving its TV operating system, international growth and its ad business. This is the good kind of spending that will lead to higher market share and stronger revenue growth.
Finally, if you’ve invested in Great Stuff picks before (and we know you winners are out there!) let us know how you did! Drop me a line at [email protected].
At this point, I know some of you possibly sit on gains of more than 60% on ROKU alone!
For the third time this week: Congratulations!
No. 2: Crypto Is Dead at Nvidia
Long live data centers!
That’s the new rallying cry at Nvidia Corp. (Nasdaq: NVDA). In an earnings report that saw gaming revenue skyrocket 56% (lots of PC-gaming enthusiasts doing holiday shopping), Nvidia shocked Wall Street with $968 million in data center sales.
CEO Jensen Huang said that artificial intelligence (AI) was the real driver behind data center sales. Nvidia has had several breakthroughs in AI that improve the performance of internet search and cloud-based computing, all of which boosted data center results on the quarter.
“All of these key areas were growing,” said CFO Colette Kress. “The industries are still in early stages.”
Nvidia didn’t provide full-year guidance, but with the semiconductor market in a cyclical upswing and 5G rollout pushing capital spending on data center servers, Nvidia is well-positioned to extend its winning streak.
No. 3: Canopy’s Sugar Daddy
Before we get started on Canopy Growth Corp. (NYSE: CGC), I want to draw your attention to today’s pot meme. That’s Banyan Hill expert Anthony Planas, and if you’d like to see his latest “POTcast” video, just click the meme (or click here for the article).
Now then … riding a $4 billion investment from Constellation Brands Inc. (NYSE: STZ), Canopy Growth crushed Wall Street’s third-quarter expectations. The pot purveyor lost C$0.35 per share as revenue rose 49% to C$123.76.
Canopy cited storefront growth and aggressive cost-cutting measures for the improved performance.
What’s more, the company knows that it’s dealing with a tough cannabis market right now. “Make no mistake, we have a lot of work to do,” said CEO David Klein. During the conference call, Klein said the company would take further steps to “rightsize” Canopy’s business during the next 90 days.
And that $4 billion from Constellation? Well … it’s whittled down to about $2.3 billion at this point. However, Canopy noted that this cash has been critical for the company, as financing continues to dry up in the cannabis market.
It turns out that having a sugar daddy in your back pocket really helps in the cannabis market.
No. 4: Just a Bit Outside
Some Great Stuff readers just might be sitting on four wins in a row today. Are you among the lucky few?
In our January 31 issue — “Friday Four Play: The ‘Fear Inoculum’ Edition” — we recommended Inovio Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: INO). The company had just received a $9 million grant to develop a vaccine for the COVID-19 virus — aka, the Wuhan coronavirus.
INO shares have been volatile ever since that bit of news, as fears surrounding the virus ebbed and flowed. Following this week’s surge in infections, Inovio is back in the limelight — thanks in part to its revolutionary system for developing vaccines.
According to a report yesterday, Inovio has a COVID-19 vaccine. In fact, it had one just three hours after the Chinese government released the virus’s DNA sequence!
“We have an algorithm which we designed, and we put the DNA sequence into our algorithm and came up with the vaccine in that short amount of time,” said Dr. Trevor Smith, Inovio’s director of research and development.
The company has already tested the vaccine on rats and plans to start “phase 1” clinical testing in humans this summer. That means a vaccine could be ready to go later this year.
Inovio shares surged over 10% today on the news. Given how volatile this biotech stock has been lately, Great Stuff readers are either back at breakeven or possibly up about 8%.
Once again, let us know how you’re doing with Great Stuff picks. Email us at [email protected]!
Great Stuff: Don’t Know Much Biology
Don’t know much about a science book. Don’t know much about the French I took.
But I do know that I love you, dear readers. (Awwww…)
And I know that this quick rally is welcome news to INO shareholders (and to Great Stuff readers! Woot woot!), but for the rip-roaring biotech sector, it’s all in a day’s work.
Biotech isn’t just known for its life-saving treatments and medicines — it’s also one of the most lucrative sectors to invest in.
But how can I tell an overnight success from an overnight bust?
As you’ve probably seen with Inovio, spotting the best biotech investments isn’t for the faint of heart … and that’s what makes your biotech guide even more important.
For Banyan Hill expert Jeff Yastine, biotech is another gold mine in the making. And today, he has his eye on one company that’s set to revolutionize health care. Even with its life-saving innovation, there’s little hype surrounding this stock today…
And yet, Jeff predicts this stock’s value could triple in the next few years!
Click here to see why Jeff believes this pioneer will soar.
That’s all for this week. But don’t fret, you can get more meme-y market goodness by following us on Facebook and Twitter!
Until next time, good trading!
Regards,
Joseph Hargett
Editor, Great Stuff
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