Bear of the Day: Southwest Airlines (LUV)

Southwest Airlines has been downgraded to a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell) as surging fuel costs squeeze margins and erode profitability. The airline reduced full-year EPS guidance to $3.25-$4.25 from above $4.00, cut capacity growth plans in half, and analysts have lowered estimates across the board. While demand remains strong and new revenue initiatives show promise, fuel cost increases are outpacing pricing power, with the company booking only 60 days in advance.