Alphabet, Palantir, Carnival Option Traders Shift Sentiment Amid Market Volatility

Option traders show mixed to moderately bearish sentiment across several stocks, with Alphabet Class A shares down and increased demand for downside protection amid slightly elevated implied volatility. Palantir Technologies, a leading AI software provider, is set to report strong second-quarter results with expected revenue growth of 39% year-over-year, though Wall Street remains divided, as most analysts hold cautious or neutral ratings due to uncertainties around contract discounting and competitive pressures. SoundHound AI also exhibits mixed options sentiment ahead of its earnings, with higher implied volatility suggesting significant price movement expectations. Meanwhile, Carnival Corporation’s shares have declined modestly amid heightened options activity and growing interest in downside protection; despite solid revenue growth and margins, the company faces financial distress signals, including a low Altman Z-Score and insider selling. These developments reflect investor caution in segments impacted by technological adoption and broader economic risks.