AppLovin

AppLovin has issued a cease and desist letter to short-seller CapitalWatch, calling its report alleging the ad-tech firm functions as a “digital laundromat” for criminal syndicates “defamatory” and “baseless.” The company vehemently denied any ties to individuals indicted for financial crimes, including Hao Tang and Chen Zhi, challenging CapitalWatch to provide evidence. This response follows similar criticisms from other short-selling firms and underscores the intense scrutiny the ad-tech sector faces.

AppLovin’s stock (APP) fell sharply after a Bloomberg report revealed an SEC probe into its data collection for targeted advertising. The investigation, spurred by a whistleblower and short-seller concerns, centers on potential violations of advertising agreements. AppLovin, recently added to the S&P 500, defends its practices, but the news triggered a significant stock decline after a period of substantial growth fueled by its AI-powered AXON engine. Short-sellers have previously criticized AppLovin’s data privacy and ad targeting, alleging violations of app store terms of service.

AppLovin (APP) and Robinhood (HOOD) shares jumped 7% after-hours following S&P Global’s announcement of their inclusion in the S&P 500, effective September 22nd. AppLovin replaces MarketAxess (MKTX), and Robinhood replaces Caesars Entertainment (CZR). This is a significant validation, especially for Robinhood. While index inclusion typically boosts share prices, the long-term benefits for AppLovin, in the competitive mobile advertising sector, and Robinhood, requiring sustained profitability, remain to be seen.