Category: 3. Business

A day laborer communicates with a potential employer on a street in New York, the United States, on Nov. 7, 2025. Due to U.S. federal government shutdown, scheduled release of non-farm payroll data for October was delayed again.

On Thursday, consulting firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas reported that U.S. employers announced 153,074 job cuts in October, the highest total for that month since 2003. (Xinhua/Zhang Fengguo)

People wait at a job center of the New York City Department of Social Services in New York, the United States, on Nov. 7, 2025. Due to U.S. federal government shutdown, scheduled release of non-farm payroll data for October was delayed again.

On Thursday, consulting firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas reported that U.S. employers announced 153,074 job cuts in October, the highest total for that month since 2003. (Xinhua/Zhang Fengguo)

People wait at a job center of the New York City Department of Social Services in New York, the United States, on Nov. 7, 2025. Due to U.S. federal government shutdown, scheduled release of non-farm payroll data for October was delayed again.

On Thursday, consulting firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas reported that U.S. employers announced 153,074 job cuts in October, the highest total for that month since 2003. (Xinhua/Zhang Fengguo)

Day laborers wait for employers on a street in New York, the United States, on Nov. 7, 2025. Due to U.S. federal government shutdown, scheduled release of non-farm payroll data for October was delayed again.

On Thursday, consulting firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas reported that U.S. employers announced 153,074 job cuts in October, the highest total for that month since 2003. (Xinhua/Zhang Fengguo)

People walk past a community job center in New York, the United States, on Nov. 7, 2025. Due to U.S. federal government shutdown, scheduled release of non-farm payroll data for October was delayed again.

On Thursday, consulting firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas reported that U.S. employers announced 153,074 job cuts in October, the highest total for that month since 2003. (Xinhua/Zhang Fengguo)

That golden field of sunflowers waving under the sun is more than just a pretty sight. It could be the source of your next burger-patty alternative. The humble sunflower seed, once stripped of its oil-rich kernel, has been transformed into a nutrient-dense flour that mimics meat’s texture and packs serious protein. Researchers collaborating across Brazil and Germany have developed this sunflower-based vegan meat alternative with promising results.A peer-reviewed study published in Food Research International found that textured sunflower protein patties delivered around 20 percent protein, healthy monounsaturated fats, and rich mineral content including iron, zinc, magnesium, and manganese. With food systems under pressure and demand for sustainable protein rising, this sunflower-derived alternative could mark a major shift in plant-based meat products.

Why sunflower flour is emerging as a viable meat alternative

Traditional plant-based proteins often rely on soy or pea, but sunflower flour presents unique advantages. The raw material, the leftover meal after oil extraction, offers a circular economy benefit. Researchers developed two formulations: one from roasted sunflower flour and the other from textured sunflower protein. The textured version outperformed in taste tests, texture, and nutrient density.Sensory panels found that sunflower-based patties had a texture and mouth-feel comparable to meat alternatives. Nutrition-wise, the textured sunflower protein variant offered high protein at around 20 percent, healthy fats, 49 percent of the RDA for iron, 68 percent for zinc, 95 percent for magnesium, and 89 percent for manganese. Sunflower flour is proving its worth as a realistic meat substitute and not just a filler protein.

How the sunflower flour meat alternative was developed

The process began with oil extraction from sunflower seeds. After removing husks and phenolic compounds that can impair digestibility and darken the flour, the remaining meal was refined. Two prototype patties were created:

Sustainability and market potential of sunflower-based meat alternatives

Sustainability is a major factor in this innovation. Sunflowers are widely grown, oil extraction is already established, and the leftover meal is underutilised. Converting this by-product into human-edible protein creates a low-waste solution. Sunflower cultivation is not heavily GMO-dependent in many regions, which may appeal to consumers seeking non-GMO alternatives.The plant-based meat sector continues to grow rapidly. Introducing sunflower flour as a base ingredient broadens raw material options, diversifies supply chains, and reduces reliance on a few dominant crops. Sunflower flour patties may soon appear in pizzas, sliders, and ready meals around the world.

Nutrition, challenges, and future directions for sunflower meat alternatives

Although results are encouraging, sensory and functional properties such as taste, texture, and shelf-life must match or surpass current market leaders to gain consumer acceptance. Researchers note that more flavour optimisation is needed. Extraction and processing affect protein yield. High fibre content in sunflower meal can reduce protein extraction and impair functionality. Optimised processing could raise protein content to around 49 percent, but equipment and process costs must be considered.Future work will focus on improving meat-like texture, expanding flavour profiles, performing lifecycle and environmental assessments, and conducting consumer acceptance studies globally.Sunflower flour is emerging as a serious contender for sustainable, scalable plant-based protein. Peer-reviewed research shows strong nutrition, good texture, mild flavour, and the added advantage of using a by-product. As consumers increasingly prioritise health, sustainability, and food transparency, sunflower flour-based products may move from novelty to norm. Your next burger could very well be powered by sunflowers.Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.Also read| Are peanut butter and jelly sandwiches truly healthy for you

• Wondering whether Banco Santander is truly a good buy, or if its share price is getting ahead of itself? You are not alone, especially with so much buzz around bank stocks lately.

• The stock has been on a tear, rising 101.0% year-to-date and delivering a remarkable 104.4% gain over the past year. This could mean investors see unrealized value or shifting risk.

• Recently, Banco Santander has been in the headlines for expanding its strategic partnerships and making strong moves in green finance and digital banking. These moves have clearly helped stoke investor interest and have fueled notable share price momentum.

• Our valuation check shows Banco Santander scores 4 out of 6 on the undervalued scale. This suggests there is real substance behind the rally, but classic valuation tools only tell part of the story. Stay tuned for a deeper dive into other ways to measure value.

Banco Santander delivered 104.4% returns over the last year. See how this stacks up to the rest of the Banks industry.

The Excess Returns model evaluates a company’s ability to generate returns above its cost of equity, highlighting how efficiently management puts its capital to work for shareholders. For Banco Santander, this method focuses on return on equity and long-term value creation, rather than just short-term profits or dividends.

Key valuation figures include:

• Book Value: €6.82 per share

• Stable EPS: €1.02 per share
  (Source: Weighted future Return on Equity estimates from 13 analysts.)

• Cost of Equity: €0.74 per share

• Excess Return: €0.28 per share

• Average Return on Equity: 12.97%

• Stable Book Value: €7.84 per share
  (Source: Weighted future Book Value estimates from 9 analysts.)

This analysis estimates the intrinsic value of Banco Santander shares at €11.77. With the Excess Returns model indicating a 24.8% discount to the current share price, Banco Santander appears undervalued using this methodology. The above-average return on equity and persistent excess returns suggest solid long-term value generation that may not be fully reflected in the market price yet.

Result: UNDERVALUED

Our Excess Returns analysis suggests Banco Santander is undervalued by 24.8%. Track this in your watchlist or portfolio, or discover 870 more undervalued stocks based on cash flows.

Head to the Valuation section of our Company Report for more details on how we arrive at this Fair Value for Banco Santander.

The Price-to-Earnings (PE) multiple is a practical and widely used measure for valuing profitable companies like Banco Santander. By comparing the current share price to the company’s earnings per share, the PE ratio helps investors quickly gauge how the market is valuing each euro of profit.

Growth expectations and risk exposure play a major role in deciding what a “normal” or “fair” PE ratio should be. Higher expected growth or lower risk typically justify higher PE ratios, while mature companies or those facing more uncertainty often trade at lower multiples.

Banco Santander’s current PE ratio stands at 10.20x. This is nearly in line with the Banks industry average of 10.18x, and just slightly below the average of significant peers at 10.32x. However, these benchmarks can overlook some important company-specific factors.

This is where Simply Wall St’s proprietary Fair Ratio comes in. The Fair Ratio, calculated at 11.59x for Banco Santander, incorporates not just peer and industry comparisons but also factors in the bank’s earnings growth outlook, profit margins, risks and broader market conditions. This makes it a more tailored and holistic reference point than raw industry figures alone.

Comparing Banco Santander’s actual PE ratio (10.20x) to its Fair Ratio (11.59x) suggests the stock is trading modestly below what would be expected given its fundamentals and outlook. This points to a potential undervaluation relative to its intrinsic earnings profile.

Result: UNDERVALUED

PE ratios tell one story, but what if the real opportunity lies elsewhere? Discover 1396 companies where insiders are betting big on explosive growth.

Earlier we mentioned that there is an even better way to understand valuation, so let’s introduce you to Narratives, a dynamic and user-friendly approach to investing that goes beyond just the numbers. A Narrative is simply your story about what you believe will happen to a company, connecting your perspective on Banco Santander’s strategies, markets, and prospects to real, customizable financial forecasts and your own calculation of fair value.

By building a Narrative, you directly link your view of a company’s future with estimates about revenue, profit margins, or PE ratios, and then see if the current market price makes sense in light of your assumptions. Narratives are easy to use on Simply Wall St’s Community page, where millions of investors routinely compare Fair Value against actual Share Price and share their insights. Best of all, Narratives automatically update when new information like earnings releases or news breaks, so your investment thesis stays current and actionable.

For example, optimistic investors may forecast high revenue growth and a fair value above €9.19 for Banco Santander, while more cautious views may lean towards lower growth rates and a fair value closer to €4.43. These differences reflect varying interpretations of risks and opportunities, and Narratives turn these perspectives into clear, actionable decisions.

For Banco Santander, however, we’ll make it really easy for you with previews of two leading Banco Santander Narratives:

🐂 Banco Santander Bull Case

Fair Value: €9.19

Current Price vs Fair Value: -3.7% (undervalued)

Forecast Revenue Growth: 8.8%

• Expanding digital banking and a diversified, multinational presence are expected to drive stable earnings and long-term revenue growth.

• Technology transformation and operational efficiency initiatives could lower costs and improve profitability. High-growth markets such as Brazil, Mexico, and the U.S. are a core focus.

• Analysts expect future annual revenue growth of 8.8%, profit margin to stay strong, and the market to price the stock at a slightly higher P/E, supporting a fair value above the current share price.

🐻 Banco Santander Bear Case

Fair Value: €4.43

Current Price vs Fair Value: +99.8% (overvalued)

Forecast Revenue Growth: 5.0%

• Despite broad global operations, digital transformation is lagging expectations and integration projects have not significantly improved online banking results.

• Rising competition from fintechs, sector risks in key geographies, and persistent cost pressures may reduce profit margins and hinder sustainable growth.

• Bears estimate slower revenue growth ahead, a much lower fair value, and believe the stock is almost twice as expensive as this scenario would justify.

Do you think there’s more to the story for Banco Santander? Head over to our Community to see what others are saying!

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include SAN.MC.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com

IREN (NasdaqGS:IREN) just inked a $9.7 billion, multi-year cloud services deal with Microsoft, drawing fresh attention from investors. This agreement places IREN at the center of hyperscale AI cloud infrastructure and marks a significant step in its transformation strategy.

See our latest analysis for IREN.

Recent excitement around IREN has sent its share price up a remarkable 496.37% year-to-date, powered by its Microsoft mega-deal and accelerating AI cloud strategy. Momentum has clearly been building, as shown by the 238.10% 90-day gain and the astonishing three-year total shareholder return of 2,000%, as investors reevaluate IREN’s long-term growth story and switching risk profile.

If leadership in AI infrastructure has you thinking bigger, this is the perfect moment to explore other stand-out tech opportunities and discover See the full list for free.

With IREN’s valuation surging on record deals and ambitious growth targets, investors are now asking if the recent rally leaves more upside ahead or if the market has already priced in the company’s bold future.

According to BlackGoat’s widely followed narrative, IREN’s fair value sits far beyond the latest $62.38 closing price. This paints a picture of a significant disconnect between market price and underlying business prospects. This valuation snapshot is gaining attention as investors gauge the Microsoft deal’s impact.

“IREN owns and operates 4 Bitcoin mining sites in North America, powered by 100% renewable energy, leveraging ‘stranded energy’ from hydro and solar power plants. IREN’s goal is to capitalise on excess renewable energy and support energy networks. Bitcoin mining is just an effective way to do so.”

Read the complete narrative.

Can lightning-fast revenue growth, bold expansion plans, and a transition into AI infrastructure really justify such a high valuation? This narrative points to aggressive numbers, ambitious technology pivots, and a bullish bet on market-shaking margins. Unpack which crucial assumptions are fueling the dramatic upside—what’s fact, and what’s faith?

Result: Fair Value of $98.21 (UNDERVALUED)

Have a read of the narrative in full and understand what’s behind the forecasts.

However, uncertainties remain, as execution delays or further shareholder dilution could challenge confidence in IREN’s ambitious growth and AI transition story.

Find out about the key risks to this IREN narrative.

Looking from a market multiples perspective, IREN currently trades at a price-to-sales ratio of 34.1x, materially higher than the peer average of 26.5x and the broader US Software industry average of 4.8x. The fair ratio, calculated by regression analysis, sits at 18.6x. These elevated ratios hint at heightened valuation risk, especially if market enthusiasm fades. Does IREN’s growth story truly justify such a premium?

See what the numbers say about this price — find out in our valuation breakdown.

If you see the story unfolding differently or want to dig into the numbers for yourself, you can craft your own perspective in just a few minutes. Do it your way

A great starting point for your IREN research is our analysis highlighting 3 key rewards and 3 important warning signs that could impact your investment decision.

Smart investors are always ahead of the curve. Before you lock in your next move, check out these fresh opportunities chosen for their growth, innovation, and steady income potential. Don’t let the next big trend pass you by.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include IREN.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com

Alpha Metallurgical Resources (AMR) released its third quarter 2025 results, revealing a year-over-year drop in revenue and a net loss. The update also included lowered shipment guidance for the remainder of the year.

See our latest analysis for Alpha Metallurgical Resources.

Alpha Metallurgical Resources’ share price has struggled to regain traction, with a 1-year total shareholder return of -28.45% and a 16% slide year-to-date. Even as management has taken steps such as buybacks and cost-cutting in response to headwinds, recent losses have tempered momentum following an exceptional 2,000%+ five-year total return. This suggests that short-term risks are currently outweighing long-term value potential in the view of investors.

If you’re curious what other fast-moving opportunities might be out there, now may be the perfect time to broaden your search and discover fast growing stocks with high insider ownership

With shares now trading well below analyst price targets and the company showing resilience in managing costs and liquidity, investors must weigh whether Alpha Metallurgical Resources is trading at a discount or if the market has already accounted for the company’s growth outlook.

With Alpha Metallurgical Resources trading at $169.33, and its narrative fair value set at $184.50, there is room for upside if analyst projections hold true. Investors are paying close attention to the company’s ability to defend its premium coal margins while adapting to market constraints, setting the stage for a debate on lasting profitability and risk.

Global underinvestment and persistent supply constraints in metallurgical coal mining, compounded by recent industry idlings and bankruptcies, are likely to elevate future prices and market share for well-capitalized producers like Alpha. This points to potential upside for future revenue and margins as demand recovers or steadies, especially in high-growth markets like India and Brazil.

Read the complete narrative.

Want to know how analysts believe Alpha could outperform the market? Discover the dramatic margin expansion and bold earnings ramp their forecasts are built around. The full narrative doesn’t hold back; get the inside story on the power moves and future ambitions that back this fair value call.

Result: Fair Value of $184.50 (UNDERVALUED)

Have a read of the narrative in full and understand what’s behind the forecasts.

However, persistent weak steel demand or rising operational costs could undermine Alpha’s projected recovery. This may dampen the case for a sustained turnaround.

Find out about the key risks to this Alpha Metallurgical Resources narrative.

If you see things differently or want to take a fresh approach to the numbers, shaping your own view is quick and easy. Do it your way

A good starting point is our analysis highlighting 2 key rewards investors are optimistic about regarding Alpha Metallurgical Resources.

Sharpen your edge and don’t let standout opportunities slip away. Get ahead of the crowd with these handpicked stock ideas, all just a click away.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include AMR.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com

Story Continues

The consensus analyst price target for National Bank of Greece has inched up, moving from €13.41 to €13.67. This modest increase comes as analysts balance optimism about the bank’s momentum and fundamentals with some residual caution regarding its recent share price gains. Stay tuned to discover how you can monitor the evolving narrative and adapt to future updates on this stock.

Stay updated as the Fair Value for National Bank of Greece shifts by adding it to your watchlist or portfolio. Alternatively, explore our Community to discover new perspectives on National Bank of Greece.

🐂 Bullish Takeaways

• JPMorgan recently raised its price target for National Bank of Greece to EUR 15, up from EUR 12.80, and reiterated an Overweight rating on the shares.

• This move reflects ongoing confidence in the bank’s growth momentum, operational execution, and underlying business fundamentals.

• Bullish analysts continue to highlight National Bank of Greece’s cost controls and improved transparency as key drivers supporting the stock’s valuation.

🐻 Bearish Takeaways

• Deutsche Bank, represented by analyst Alfredo Alonso, downgraded the stock to Hold from Buy, while increasing its price target to EUR 13.40 from EUR 11.85.

• The downgrade reflects growing concerns over current valuation, with Deutsche Bank noting that much of the recent upside may already be priced in following the stock’s rally.

Do your thoughts align with the Bull or Bear Analysts? Perhaps you think there’s more to the story. Head to the Simply Wall St Community to discover more perspectives or begin writing your own Narrative!

• Consensus Analyst Price Target has risen slightly, increasing from €13.41 to €13.67.

• Discount rate has fallen moderately, decreasing from 11.09% to 10.80%.

• Revenue growth projection has edged up, moving from 4.32% to 4.39%.

• Net profit margin estimate has increased marginally, rising from 43.88% to 43.95%.

• Future P/E ratio forecast has risen slightly, moving from 12.73x to 12.82x.

A Narrative is a powerful tool that goes beyond the numbers, helping investors tell a complete story about a company’s outlook. On Simply Wall St, Narratives connect the company’s business journey to specific forecasts and fair value estimates, making it easy for anyone to follow, compare, and act. Updated dynamically on the Community page as new facts emerge, Narratives let you instantly judge if a stock is a buy, sell, or hold by comparing fair value and price.

Read the full original Narrative for National Bank of Greece and stay ahead of the market on:

• How ongoing digital transformation is expected to boost margins, lower costs, and enhance customer experience at National Bank of Greece.

• Why diversified income sources and robust capital reserves position the bank for resilient growth and shareholder returns.

• What risks such as digital competition, regulatory changes, and demographic shifts could affect the bank’s growth prospects and valuation outlook.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include ETE.atse.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com

Story Continues

A major UK trial of a controversial feed additive designed to reduce emissions of planet-warming methane gas by dairy cows has ended.

Arla Foods, owner of the UK’s largest dairy co-operative, is now reviewing the results of the tests on 30 farms before any decision on future use is made.

The launch of the Bovaer supplement trial last year saw concerns raised over food safety, as well as misinformation and conspiracy theories posted online, with videos on social media showing people flushing milk down the toilet in protest.

Bovaer is now the focus of an investigation in Denmark after farmers raised fresh concerns but manufacturer DSM-Firmenich said the additive was “proven, effective and safe”.

The company spokesman added that it had been “successfully used for over three years by thousands of farmers in over 25 countries.”

But he said: “We are aware that in recent days, some farmers have raised concerns about cow health.

“We are actively engaging with the relevant organizations to ensure that all these concerns are fully investigated and properly addressed.

“In previously reported cases, Bovaer was not identified as a contributing factor to the health concerns raised.”

Methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases and, although it does not hang around in the atmosphere as long as carbon dioxide, it is 28 times stronger over a 100-year period.

It is claimed Bovaer – a brand name for the additive 3-Nitrooxypropanol – could reduce cow methane emissions by between 30-45%, and help farmers be more environmentally-friendly. It works by suppressing the enzymes in a cow’s stomach that create the gas.

The supplement, which is added in small quantities to cow feed, has been approved for use by UK regulators and the UK government has said milk from cows given Bovaer is safe to drink.

A Food Standards Agency safety assessment in 2023 concluded there were no safety concerns when Bovaer is used at the approved dose.

But it is not clear whether the additive will be more widely used in the UK, with a spokeswoman for Arla saying the findings of its trial were “currently being reviewed”.

The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) said “animal welfare must continue to be our highest priority” with any new product.

Paul Tompkins, who oversees the NFU Dairy Board, said: “Following reports of investigations in Denmark into the use of methane suppresants, we will continue to monitor the situation for any developments to ensure the impact of any product is known.”

In Denmark, it is mandatory to use methane-reducing animal feed as part of the government’s plan to reduce the environmental impact from agriculture.

About 1,400 out of 2,000 dairy farms in Denmark are currently using Bovaer.

Jannik Elmegaard, of the Danish Food and Veterinary Administration, told the BBC they were “very aware that some herd owners have reported animals showing signs of illness after being fed with Bovaer” but it was “unclear how many cows were affected”.

He added that they were “closely monitoring” the situation and collecting data so that they could determine the cause of the illnesses but emphasised that Bovaer had “undergone a long and thorough approval process”.

Denmark’s Aarhus University has conducted several studies on the feed additive as part of its research into reducing methane emissions from cows and gives advice to the Danish authorities.

Professor Charlotte Lauridsen, from the university’s Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, said of the concerns raised: “The pattern of disease now being described in the media – with fever, diarrhoea and, in some cases, dead cows – has never been observed in our extensive studies.”

But she added that the reports were being taken seriously and researchers were now collecting samples from herds where problems had been reported.

A spokesperson for Bovaer manufacturer DSM-firmenich said the company was “aware that in recent days, some farmers have raised concerns about cow health”.

“We are actively engaging with the relevant organisations to ensure that all these concerns are fully investigated and properly addressed,” he explained.

“In previously reported cases, Bovaer was not identified as a contributing factor to the health concerns raised.”

He added that animal welfare was the company’s “highest priority” and that “Bovaer is a proven, effective and safe solution that has been successfully used for over three years by thousands of farmers in over 25 countries.”