FCX, EPZM, and LXU stocks are making notable moves on the charts today
U.S. stocks are flying high today, with the Nasdaq surging to another record high. Among specific stocks on the move this afternoon are mining concern Freeport-McMoRan Inc (NYSE:FCX), drug stock Epizyme Inc (NASDAQ:EPZM), and agricultural manufacturer LSB Industries, Inc. (NYSE:LXU). Here's a quick look at what's moving shares of FCX, EPZM, and LXU.
Freeport-McMoRan Stock Gains on Indonesian Export Permit
Although earnings missed expectations and guidance was cut, FCX stock is up 5.9% today at $12.96, after the company gained a six-month export permit from the Indonesian government on its Grasberg copper mine, which previously faced an export ban. The shares are on pace for their highest close in roughly two weeks, but topped out near their downtrending 50-day moving average. In the meantime, analysts covering Freeport-McMoRan Inc are taking a neutral-to-bearish approach, with nine of 13 giving it a "hold" or worse rating.
FDA Nod Sends Epizyme Stock Soaring
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted a "fast track" designation to EPZM's follicular lymphoma treatment, tazemetostat, sending the shares 15.5% higher to trade at $17.20. In fact, Epizyme Inc earlier hit an annual high of $17.95, and has now rallied 145% since its early September lows near $7. Short sellers are hurting, however. Despite an 18.6% decline in the previous two reporting periods, short interest on EPZM stock represents roughly 14 days' worth of buying power, going by average daily volumes.
LSB Industries Torches Short Sellers with Strong Earnings
LXU stock is the top percentage gainer on the New York Stock Exchange today, exploding 33.5% to trade at $9.81, following the company's impressive first-quarter results and upbeat outlook. At the same time, the shares topped out just below the $10 level, which has acted as resistance on several occasions since early December. Still, LSB Industries, Inc. is another stock burning short sellers today, as almost 32% of its float is sold short.