News
Mixed
Volatility: 2/5
Affirm surges on strong outlook; CEO says high gas prices are hitting U.S. shoppers
August 28, 2026
·
cnbc
·
70% confidence
Summary
Affirm surges on strong outlook; CEO warns high gas prices pressure shoppers.
AI Analysis
Strong earnings from AFRM support fintech/consumer credit, but elevated gas prices act as a tax on discretionary spending, weighing on consumer cyclicals and broad market.
Direction
Mixed
Volatility
2/5 - Low
AI Confidence
70%
Affected Stocks
AFRM
XOM
CVX
DAL
WMT
TGT
Likely Winners
AFRM (Affirm Holdings)
XOM (Exxon Mobil)
CVX (Chevron Corporation)
Likely Losers
DAL (Delta Air Lines)
WMT (Walmart Inc.)
TGT (Target Corporation)
Suggested Action
Buy XLE ETF to benefit from elevated energy prices
Recommended Actions
- Buy XLE ETF to benefit from elevated energy prices
- Short XLY ETF to hedge consumer discretionary weakness
- Buy AFRM calls on strong outlook and guidance
- Monitor WTI crude oil prices and national gas price average
- Add put spreads on retail ETFs like XRT against consumer spending concerns