Equitable Holdings Stock Plunges 5.67% as COO's 10b5-1 Plan Sparks Investor Concern

The share price fell to its lowest level since April 2025 today, with an intraday decline of 5.28%.

Equitable Holdings’ stock has dropped 5.67% over three trading days, extending its losing streak to three sessions. The decline followed a regulatory filing by Chief Operating Officer Jeffrey J. Hurd, who disclosed plans to sell 6,790 restricted shares via a prearranged trading plan under SEC Rule 10b5-1. The transaction, scheduled for completion within 90 days, has raised investor concerns despite being framed as a routine liquidity management strategy. Such insider sales, while legally compliant, often signal uncertainty about a company’s near-term outlook, particularly when executed by high-level executives.

While the market’s reaction reflects typical sensitivity to insider transactions, analysts note the structured nature of the 10b5-1 plan mitigates accusations of opportunistic trading. The SEC’s regulatory framework requires such filings to ensure transparency, but the sale’s timing coincides with EQH’s recent underperformance, amplifying scrutiny. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, the designated broker, is expected to facilitate the transaction in accordance with compliance protocols. However, the potential increase in share supply during the 90-day window could exacerbate downward pressure on the stock, especially if broader market sentiment remains fragile. Investors will likely monitor subsequent filings and the company’s operational updates for further clues on its strategic direction.