Economic data will be at the forefront of U.S. stock markets next week, as we exit earnings season. Additionally, oil prices continue their steady decline.
Several companies are worth examining as we approach the new week, including American Airlines Group Inc (NASDAQ:AAL), Evoke Pharma Inc (NASDAQ:EVOK) and Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT).
American Airlines Group Inc (AAL)
American Airlines is considering making a move that will reduce the number of flight delays.
As things currently stand, pilots can only work between nine and 14 hours at a time. If this limit is breached, the company requires flights to be delayed or cancelled.
Now, American Airlines is considering rushing pilots to get to their destinations faster in order to ensure these flights take place in time. However, such a move would raise security concerns.
The airline states that safety is its number one concern, and such a move would require pilots to rush, which would increase the risk of the passengers.
AAL stock fell 2.3% Friday. Shares have declined 16.2% YTD.
Evoke Pharma Inc (EVOK)
Evoke Pharma shares slipped on the company’s most recent drug trial news.
The company reported that EVK-001 — a drug for gastroparesis in women — failed to meet its goal. This occurred during the phase 3 trial of the medication.
The results were unexpected and they may be an anomaly of some sort. Evoke Pharma believes the product will be successful in the long run.
EVK-001 is a nasal spray that treats gastroparesis, which is a condition that hampers the stomach’s ability to empty.
EVOK shares dipped 13.5% Friday, while sliding 45% over the last three months.
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
Microsoft is making changes to its newest operating system.
Windows 10 will receive an upgrade that will result in a few key changes to how the OS currently runs computers. Avoiding hacking attacks and using the digital pen more effectively are among the new features expected in the upcoming Windows 10.
Voice-activated assistant Cortana will be improved, becoming more of a real-life personal assistant with its expanded features.
Windows 10 currently has more than 350 million monthly active users.
MSFT stock rose 0.2% last week, and 10.8% over the last month.
As of this writing, Karl Utermohlen did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned securities.
