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2026-09-28 13:30 • The Motley Fool Mixed Axe Cap view: Bearish

QuantumScape's solid-state lithium battery technology promised a 20-25% boost in EV driving range, but the company has fallen significantly behind competitors in commercialization. With competitors like BYD, Toyota, and Nissan advancing faster to market, QuantumScape faces a challenging path forward. The company is burning ~$100 million quarterly with only $900 million in cash reserves, and Volkswagen's postponement of a $7 billion battery plant investment until 2029 further complicates its prospects.

Axe note: QuantumScape trails established EV players and risks running out of cash before catching up.

2026-09-28 13:28 • The Motley Fool Positive Axe Cap view: Neutral

Costco's business remains strong with 11% net sales growth and 6.7% adjusted comparable growth in Q4 FY2026, outperforming market expectations. However, the stock has underperformed the S&P 500 this year (up 7% vs. 13%), trading at a steep 45x trailing earnings multiple. Despite solid fundamentals, the high valuation limits near-term upside potential, making it a safe long-term hold rather than a near-term rally candidate.

Axe note: Strong sales but pricey shares keep Costco’s near-term upside capped.

2026-09-28 13:01 • The Motley Fool Positive Axe Cap view: Selective

Viking Therapeutics' GLP-1 drug VK2735 showed promising clinical trial results with 16-19% weight loss and strong maintenance rates, causing the stock to surge. While riskier than Eli Lilly due to its smaller $4.1B market cap and lack of approved drugs, Viking could offer significant upside potential through drug approval or acquisition by a larger healthcare company.

Axe note: Smaller GLP-1 drug developer Viking Therapeutics might surprise bigger names like Eli Lilly if their promising weight-loss drug clears key hurdles.