Carnival

Bank of America has lowered its price target on Carnival, the world's largest cruise operator, citing a sharp rise in a key cost, widely understood to be fuel. The downgrade adds to pressure on cruise line shares, which have been sensitive to shifts in oil prices and consumer spending. Investors are watching whether Carnival can maintain profitability if expenses keep climbing.

Shares of Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival came under pressure as news of a rare hantavirus outbreak raised fears of a slowdown in travel bookings. Investors are watching whether the report of the uncommon rodent-borne disease will dent consumer confidence in cruises and other leisure travel, though no major itinerary cancellations have been reported so far.