USA Today (NYSE:TDAY) Stock Passes Above 50-Day Moving Average

Shares rise as company sees boost from March Madness coverage

Mar. 21, 2026 at 8:21am

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USA Today's stock price has risen above its 50-day moving average, with the company seeing a boost in digital ad revenue and engagement from its extensive coverage of March Madness. However, the company has also faced some challenges, including the impact of a potential government shutdown and layoff tracker coverage, which can pressure ad demand.

Why it matters

The rise in USA Today's stock price above the 50-day moving average is a positive sign for the company, indicating increased investor confidence. The boost from March Madness coverage highlights the importance of timely, high-interest sports content for driving digital engagement and revenue. However, the company's exposure to broader economic factors like government shutdowns and layoffs underscores the need for diversified revenue streams.

The details

USA Today's stock price has risen above its 50-day moving average, trading as high as $6.60 per share. The company has seen a boost in digital ad revenue and engagement from its extensive coverage of March Madness, including first-round previews, expert bracket picks, and live score guides. However, the company has also faced some challenges, including the impact of a potential government shutdown and layoff tracker coverage, which can pressure ad demand and advertiser budgets.

  • USA Today's stock price crossed above its 50-day moving average of $6.10 on Friday.
  • The company published its March Madness coverage in the lead-up to and during the tournament.
  • USA Today ran multiple live updates on the Senate votes, the SAVE Act, and shutdown risk in recent weeks.

The players

Gannett Co, Inc.

The media and marketing solutions company that owns USA Today and more than 260 local news brands.

Citigroup

An equities research analyst firm that reissued a "neutral" rating on USA Today shares.

Wall Street Zen

An equities research analyst firm that raised its rating on USA Today shares from "sell" to "hold".

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What’s next

Analysts will continue to monitor USA Today's performance, particularly the impact of March Madness coverage and any potential government shutdown on the company's digital ad revenue and engagement.

The takeaway

USA Today's stock price rise above the 50-day moving average is a positive sign, but the company's exposure to broader economic factors like government shutdowns and layoffs underscores the need for diversified revenue streams. The company's ability to capitalize on high-interest sports coverage like March Madness will be crucial for driving digital engagement and ad revenue in the near term.