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U.S. Consumer Sentiment Weakens in October as Inflation Expectations Stay Elevated The University of Michigan’s preliminary Consumer Sentiment Index fell

The University of Michigan’s preliminary Consumer Sentiment Index fell to 46.3 in October, below the 47.5 consensus estimate and down from 48.1 previously. Consumer...

10-09-26

Humana Stock Jumps 14.5% After Medicare Star Ratings Beat Expectations Humana shares rose about 14.5% to $443.08 after the company

Humana shares rose about 14.5% to $443.08 after the company reported a major improvement in its 2027 Medicare Advantage Star Ratings and analysts responded...

10-09-26

Alignment Healthcare Stock Plunges 16.4% After William Blair Downgrade Alignment Healthcare shares fell 16.4% to $7.29 after William Blair downgraded

Alignment Healthcare shares fell 16.4% to $7.29 after William Blair downgraded the stock to Market Perform from Outperform, with the move tied to concerns...

10-09-26

Astera Labs Stock Falls 5.7% After Citi and Northland Downgrades Astera Labs shares fell about 5.7% to $327.43 after receiving

Astera Labs shares fell about 5.7% to $327.43 after receiving two analyst downgrades. Northland Securities downgraded the stock to Market Perform from Outperform, while...

10-09-26

Archer Aviation Stock Rises 4.9% After Barclays Upgrade and $8 Price Target Archer Aviation shares rose about 4.9% to $4.95

Archer Aviation shares rose about 4.9% to $4.95 after Barclays upgraded the stock to Overweight from Equal Weight and raised its price target to...

10-09-26

U.S. Stocks Edge Higher as Brent Crude Holds Near $104 U.S. stocks opened modestly higher on Thursday, with the S&P

U.S. stocks opened modestly higher on Thursday, with the S&P 500 up 0.27% at 7,786.27, the Dow Jones Industrial Average gaining 0.28% to 51,375.78,...

10-09-26

Oil-Dri Stock Rises 1.7% After Record Quarterly Sales and Strong Profit Growth Oil-Dri shares rose about 1.7% after the company

Oil-Dri shares rose about 1.7% after the company reported record fourth-quarter sales and stronger profitability to close fiscal 2026. Fourth-quarter revenue increased 3% year...

10-09-26

Delta Air Lines Stock Falls 3% Despite Record Revenue as Fuel Costs and Expenses Pressure Earnings Delta Air Lines shares

shares fell about 3% after the carrier reported record September-quarter revenue but continued to face significant pressure from higher fuel and...

10-09-26

Canada Employment Falls Sharply in September as Unemployment Holds at 6.5% Canada lost 68,300 jobs in September, a much weaker

Canada lost 68,300 jobs in September, a much weaker result than the 6,100 increase expected by economists and following a 41,700 decline previously. Despite...

10-09-26

Brazil Inflation Accelerates to 4.58% in September, Above Expectations Brazil’s annual consumer inflation rate rose to 4.58% in September, exceeding

Brazil’s annual consumer inflation rate rose to 4.58% in September, exceeding the 4.50% consensus estimate and accelerating from 4.22% previously. The stronger-than-expected reading suggests...

10-09-26

Swiss Consumer Confidence Weakens Sharply in September Switzerland’s SECO Consumer Climate Index fell to -36 in September, missing expectations for

Switzerland’s SECO Consumer Climate Index fell to -36 in September, missing expectations for -32 and deteriorating from -33 previously. The weaker-than-expected reading suggests Swiss...

10-09-26

Japan Household Spending Falls 3.1% in August, Beating Expectations Japan’s household spending declined 3.1% year over year in August, slightly

Japan’s household spending declined 3.1% year over year in August, slightly better than the 3.5% drop expected by economists and improving from the previous...

10-09-26

US

U.S. Consumer Sentiment Weakens in October as Inflation Expectations Stay Elevated

The University of Michigan’s preliminary Consumer Sentiment Index fell to 46.3 in October, below the 47.5 consensus estimate and down from 48.1 previously.

Consumer expectations were somewhat more resilient, rising to 47.3 from 46.3 and beating the 45.9 forecast. That suggests households became slightly less pessimistic about the outlook even as overall sentiment deteriorated.

One-year inflation expectations edged up to 4.7% from 4.6%, although the reading came in slightly below the 4.8% consensus estimate.

The report gives a mixed signal for markets. Softer headline sentiment points to continued caution among U.S. consumers, while the improvement in expectations offers some support to the growth outlook. However, inflation expectations remain elevated, which could keep investors sensitive to additional price-pressure data and complicate expectations for faster monetary easing.

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WS News 10-09-26

U.S. Stocks Edge Higher as Brent Crude Holds Near $104

U.S. stocks opened modestly higher on Thursday, with the S&P 500 up 0.27% at 7,786.27, the Dow Jones Industrial Average gaining 0.28% to 51,375.78, and the Nasdaq rising 0.34% to 27,285.85.

Brent crude was trading at $103.89 per barrel, down 0.37% on the day, after moving between roughly $102.50 and $103.90 during the session. Oil remains at elevated levels despite the slight decline.

The combination of firm equity markets and Brent holding above $100 suggests investors are balancing resilient risk appetite against continued inflation concerns from high energy prices. Elevated crude can increase transportation and input costs across the economy, potentially keeping some pressure on headline inflation.

For equities, the near-term question is whether oil prices stabilize around current levels or resume their recent rise. A renewed move higher in crude could revive concerns over inflation and interest rates, while a pullback would provide some relief to broader market sentiment.

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Global Finance News 10-09-26

U.S. Stocks Mixed as Rising Oil Prices Revive Inflation Concerns

U.S. stocks traded mixed on Thursday as investors weighed resilient labor-market data against a sharp rise in oil prices that renewed concerns about inflation.

The S&P 500 fell 0.17% to 7,788.26 and the Nasdaq declined 0.43% to 27,421.53, while the Dow Jones edged up 0.08% to 51,219.42.

Initial jobless claims came in at 197,000, below the 200,000 consensus and down from 199,000 previously, suggesting layoffs remain relatively limited. Continuing claims, however, increased to 1.716 million from 1.699 million, slightly above expectations of 1.710 million, pointing to somewhat softer re-employment conditions.

Oil added another source of pressure. Brent crude surged about 4.6% to roughly $104.83 per barrel during the session. The sharp increase raised concerns that higher energy costs could feed back into headline inflation and transportation costs, potentially slowing the disinflation process.

The combination of firm initial claims and rising oil prices is not particularly supportive for aggressive Federal Reserve easing. Investors appear to be balancing continued economic resilience against the risk that renewed energy inflation could keep interest rates higher for longer, which is especially relevant for rate-sensitive technology and growth stocks.

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European Investor 10-08-26

Wall Street Turns Lower as Inflation Expectations Rise and 10-Year Treasury Yield Jumps

U.S. stocks moved lower Wednesday as investors reacted to higher consumer inflation expectations and a sharp increase in the yield at the latest 10-year Treasury note auction.

The S&P 500 fell 0.24% to 7,800.42, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.59% to 51,219.02. The Nasdaq Composite was down 0.39% at 27,492.49.

The New York Fed’s one-year consumer inflation expectations rose to 3.9% in September, above both the 3.6% forecast and the previous reading of 3.6%. The increase suggests households are becoming more concerned about near-term price pressures, potentially complicating the Federal Reserve’s path toward easier monetary policy.

Pressure on markets was reinforced by the U.S. Treasury’s 10-year note auction, which cleared at a yield of 5.300%, sharply above the previous auction’s 4.834%. The higher yield points to materially higher borrowing costs and increases the discount rate applied to future corporate earnings, a particular headwind for growth-oriented equities.

The combination of rising inflation expectations and higher long-term Treasury yields appears to be weighing on risk sentiment, with investors reassessing the possibility that U.S. interest rates may remain elevated for longer than previously anticipated.

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Global Finance News 10-07-26

### U.S. 3-Year Treasury Auction Yield Jumps to 4.932%

The U.S. Treasury’s latest 3-year note auction cleared at a yield of 4.932%, sharply above the 4.474% yield at the previous auction.

The higher yield indicates investors demanded significantly more compensation to hold short- to intermediate-term government debt, reflecting renewed upward pressure on Treasury borrowing costs.

The result may reinforce market concerns that interest rates could remain elevated for longer, particularly as investors continue to assess inflation, labor-market resilience and the Federal Reserve’s policy outlook.

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The Investor 10-06-26

U.S. Trade Deficit Widens Sharply in August; Atlanta Fed GDPNow Holds at 3.7%

The U.S. trade deficit widened significantly in August to $105.6 billion, exceeding expectations for a $100.8 billion shortfall and deteriorating from the previous month’s $92.8 billion deficit.

Separately, the Atlanta Federal Reserve’s GDPNow model continued to estimate third-quarter U.S. economic growth at an annualized 3.7%, unchanged from both the previous estimate and market expectations.

The unchanged GDPNow reading suggests that, despite the weaker trade balance, incoming economic data have not materially altered the model’s overall assessment of third-quarter growth.

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The Investor 10-06-26

Wall Street Opens Higher as ADP Weekly Employment Growth Strengthens

U.S. stocks opened higher on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 rising 0.79% to 7,835.09, the Dow Jones Industrial Average gaining 0.75% to 51,652.43 and the Nasdaq advancing 0.77% to 27,687.76.

The positive start came alongside a firmer reading from ADP’s weekly employment estimate. U.S. private-sector employment increased by 23,800, up from 22,500 in the previous reading, suggesting that labor demand remains relatively resilient.

The data added to the latest evidence that the U.S. labor market is continuing to expand, even as investors assess whether employment conditions are cooling enough to influence the Federal Reserve’s policy outlook.

Equities moved broadly higher at the open, with gains across all three major indexes. Markets are now likely to remain sensitive to upcoming labor, inflation and economic-growth data as investors reassess the timing and pace of any future changes in U.S. interest rates.

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The Investor 10-06-26

U.S. Stocks Mostly Higher as Services Activity Remains Strong but Price Pressures Rise

U.S. stocks traded mostly higher on Monday as services-sector data continued to point to solid economic growth. The S&P 500 gained 0.43% to 7,755.84 and the Nasdaq rose 0.73% to 27,388.08, while the Dow Jones slipped 0.17% to 51,092.08.

The S&P Global Services PMI came in at 58.8 in September, slightly above the 58.7 consensus, while the Composite PMI held at 58.4. Both readings indicate robust expansion in U.S. private-sector activity.

The ISM Non-Manufacturing PMI was somewhat softer, declining to 54.9 from 55.4 and missing expectations of 55.1. However, the employment component improved to 50.1 from 47.8, moving back into expansion territory and signaling better hiring conditions within the services sector.

Inflation pressures were the main concern. The ISM Non-Manufacturing Prices Index climbed to 74.0 from 72.6, indicating that service-sector input costs remain elevated.

The market reaction suggests investors are balancing resilient economic growth against persistent inflation pressures. Strong activity is supportive for earnings expectations, particularly for growth stocks, but the rise in the prices index could limit expectations for aggressive Federal Reserve rate cuts.

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WS Investor 10-05-26

Why is Consumer Sentiment so Low? - A Wealth of Common Sense

Why you can't trust sentiment surveys anymore.

(awealthofcommonsense.com)

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The Investor 10-04-26

El-Erian issues an important reminder about the Fed and the US economy

The Fed can't solve this economic crisis alone.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS News 10-03-26

10-09-26Global Finance News

10-08-26European Investor

NASDAQ:PEP

PepsiCo Stock Rises 2.2% After Q3 Revenue Growth and Updated 2026 Outlook

PepsiCo shares rose about 2.2% after the company reported third-quarter results showing stronger revenue growth, improving volumes and solid international performance.

Q3 net revenue increased 5.6% to $25.27 billion, while organic revenue grew 3.1%. Reported EPS rose 17% to $2.23, while core EPS increased 2% to $2.34. Operating profit climbed 19% to $4.26 billion, with reported operating margin expanding to 16.9% from 14.9%.

Underlying profitability was more mixed. Core operating profit increased 3%, but core operating margin contracted 35 basis points to 16.9%. PepsiCo said productivity savings, pricing and tariff refunds helped results, while higher operating costs and increased advertising and marketing spending created pressure.

International operations remained a major growth driver. Organic revenue increased 9% in EMEA and Asia Pacific Foods, 7% in International Beverages Franchise and 6% in Latin America Foods. North American beverage revenue rose 5%, although beverage volume declined 2%.

PepsiCo also updated its 2026 outlook. The company now expects organic revenue growth of approximately 3% and reported net revenue growth of around 6%. However, core constant-currency EPS growth is now expected at only 1% to 2%, while core EPS growth is projected at 2.5% to 3.5%.

The positive stock reaction suggests investors are focusing on improving organic growth, stronger volumes and international momentum, despite softer underlying margin trends and a more modest earnings-growth outlook.

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European Investor 10-08-26

PepsiCo Stock Falls 3.6% Premarket Despite Revenue Growth and Reaffirmed 2026 Outlook

PepsiCo (NASDAQ: PEP) shares fell 3.6% in premarket trading on Thursday despite reporting higher second-quarter revenue and earnings and reaffirming its full-year 2026 guidance, as investors appeared disappointed by modest underlying profit growth and continued margin pressure.

Why Is PepsiCo Stock Falling Today?

Although PepsiCo delivered another quarter of revenue growth, investors focused on slowing core earnings momentum rather than headline results.

The company reported second-quarter net revenue of $24.2 billion, up 6.4% year over year, while organic revenue increased 2.4%. Core earnings per share rose 4% to $2.20, and core constant-currency EPS increased just 1%, suggesting that much of the reported growth was supported by acquisitions and favorable foreign exchange rather than accelerating underlying profitability.

PepsiCo Delivers Solid Sales Growth

PepsiCo said strong performance from its international operations and beverage business continued to support overall growth.

The company's global convenient foods and beverages businesses posted healthy organic volume gains, with management highlighting the strongest year-to-date global organic volume growth since 2022. International markets remained a key driver, while North America's beverage business benefited from acquisitions completed in 2025.

The company also pointed to innovation, affordability initiatives, and continued expansion of its zero-sugar, hydration, protein, and functional product offerings as contributors to sales growth.

Margins Remain Under Pressure

While reported operating profit surged due to easier year-over-year comparisons following prior impairment charges, underlying profitability was more subdued.

Core operating profit increased 4%, while core operating margin slipped 40 basis points to 16.8% as productivity gains and pricing were partially offset by higher operating costs. The relatively modest growth in core earnings may have tempered investor enthusiasm despite the stronger headline figures.

What Investors Are Watching Next

PepsiCo reaffirmed its fiscal 2026 financial guidance, signaling confidence in its outlook despite ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty.

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The Investor 07-09-26

PepsiCo has opened a Lay’s potato-themed restaurant in Shanghai, marking a new step in its experiential marketing strategy in China.

Located in the city’s Xintiandi district, the restaurant offers an immersive, limited-time brand experience built around Lay’s, combining food, design, and cultural collaborations. The concept aims to engage younger consumers who increasingly favor experience-driven consumption over traditional product ownership.

The venue features a diverse menu of potato-based dishes, including Shanghai-exclusive creations, and incorporates both Eastern and Western culinary influences. The opening also includes collaborations with chefs and fashion partners, alongside interactive installations and retail merchandise tied to the brand.

PepsiCo described the project as a “test-and-learn” model to explore new consumption occasions beyond traditional snacking, particularly in the away-from-home channel. The initiative is expected to inform similar brand activations in other global markets.

The move highlights PepsiCo’s broader strategy to deepen consumer engagement through immersive experiences and expand the role of its snack brands into lifestyle and dining spaces.

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The Investor 04-27-26

PepsiCo, Inc. has launched Dirty Mountain Dew, its first ready-to-drink “dirty soda”-inspired beverage, now available nationwide.

The new product combines Mountain Dew’s signature citrus flavor with a creamy finish and is offered in both regular and zero-sugar versions, in bottles and multi-pack cans. The launch taps into the growing “dirty soda” trend, which has gained popularity among consumers seeking customizable, indulgent drinks.

PepsiCo said the product brings a traditionally made-to-order beverage concept into a convenient, ready-to-drink format, expanding access through retail distribution. The company will also offer delivery promotions through DoorDash’s DashMart in select U.S. markets starting later in April.

The launch reflects PepsiCo’s strategy to capitalize on emerging consumer trends and drive innovation in the beverage category.

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WS Investor 04-07-26

PepsiCo launches MLB promotion with free Mountain Dew Baja Blast rewards

March 25, 2026 — PepsiCo’s Mountain Dew Baja Blast brand has launched a nationwide promotion tied to the 2026 Major League Baseball season, offering fans free drinks based on game performance.

Under the “Get a Baja for a Blast” campaign, home runs traveling 420 feet or more during MLB games will unlock free Mountain Dew Baja Blast beverages for registered fans, redeemable up to five times throughout the season.

The campaign also includes a collaboration with Rawlings to release a limited-edition baseball glove inspired by the Baja Blast brand, available for purchase online.

PepsiCo said the initiative aims to engage fans through live game moments and digital interaction, strengthening its partnership with MLB and expanding brand visibility during the season.

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WS Investor 03-25-26

PepsiCo introduced Good Warrior, a new protein snack brand aimed at busy consumers seeking convenient, high-protein options.

The brand will debut with Good Warrior Beef Sticks, made from grass-fed beef and offering 10 grams of protein, zero sugar and 100 calories per serving. The gluten-free snacks, available in Original and Jalapeño Pepper flavors, will launch in March 2026 at select U.S. retailers with a suggested retail price of $2.99 for a single stick and $19.99 for an eight-pack.

PepsiCo said the launch responds to rising demand for protein-rich snacks, citing research showing that 86 percent of Americans are looking to increase protein intake. The new brand expands the company’s growing portfolio of functional food products, which includes items such as Doritos Protein, Quaker protein snacks and prebiotic beverages.

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Global Finance News 03-16-26

PepsiCo announced the launch of “Pilla Tortilla,” the world’s first Lay’s-branded restaurant, opening in Madrid, Spain, as part of its strategy to expand into the away-from-home food market.

The new concept reimagines Spain’s traditional tortilla (omelet) using Lay’s potato chips as a signature ingredient, with the menu developed in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Miguel Carretero. Customers can order the tortilla in multiple formats—including slices, sandwiches or whole portions—with customizable toppings such as Iberian ham, anchovies, pork belly and aioli.

The restaurant is part of PepsiCo’s Food Ventures unit, which focuses on creating ready-to-eat dining concepts and new consumption occasions beyond traditional snack moments, while strengthening direct engagement with consumers. Two locations in Madrid will operate under the concept, including a full-service restaurant and a takeaway-focused kitchen.

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WS Investor 03-09-26

Gatorade, owned by PepsiCo, launched Gatorade Lower Sugar, a new hydration drink containing 75% less sugar than the original Gatorade Thirst Quencher.

The product contains no artificial flavors, sweeteners, or colors and is formulated with the brand’s electrolyte blend designed to hydrate better than water. It will be available nationwide in the U.S. starting March 2026 in four flavors: Fruit Punch, Lemonade, Glacier Cherry, and Rain Berry.

The drink is part of Gatorade’s Advanced Hydration System portfolio and targets consumers seeking lower-sugar hydration options. Bottles will be sold in multiple sizes with suggested retail prices ranging from $1.89 to $3.39.

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Global Finance News 03-06-26

Subway Canada has partnered with PepsiCo Canada to launch a limited-time All Dressed Sauce inspired by Ruffles All Dressed chips.

Available nationwide, the new sauce brings the sweet, tangy, smoky and savoury flavor profile of Canada’s iconic All Dressed chips to Subway subs. The sauce is made in Canada and designed to deliver the signature chip taste in a convenient format.

To mark National Chip Day on March 14, Subway Canada is offering a free bag of chips with the purchase of any sub on March 14–15 for online or app orders using a promo code, at participating locations.

The collaboration blends two well-known brands to extend a popular Canadian flavor beyond the snack aisle into quick-service dining.

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European Investor 03-03-26

PepsiCo, Inc. and Starbucks Corporation are expanding their ready-to-drink portfolio with the launch of Starbucks® Coffee & Protein beverages, rolling out nationwide beginning March 23.

Developed through the North American Coffee Partnership, the new 12 oz bottled drinks combine Starbucks coffee with 22 grams of complete protein, 5 grams of prebiotic fiber, five vitamins and minerals, and 2 grams of sugar. The beverages will be available in Classic Caffè and Caffè Mocha flavors at a suggested retail price of $3.99, targeting growing consumer demand for protein-rich and functional beverages.

The launch is part of a broader expansion of lighter and reduced-sugar offerings, including Starbucks Doubleshot® Energy Zero Sugar and a new Frappuccino® Lite Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato flavor. The companies aim to capture demand for nutrient-focused, convenient coffee options in grocery, convenience and online retail channels.

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Global Finance News 02-28-26

10-09-26Global Finance News

10-09-26WS News

10-08-26European Investor

08-25-26WS Investor

NYSE:TSM

TSMC July Revenue Jumps 44.7% as AI and Advanced Chip Demand Drive Growth

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (NYSE: TSM) reported another sharp acceleration in sales in July, reinforcing the company's position as one of the biggest beneficiaries of continued investment in artificial intelligence and advanced semiconductor infrastructure.

TSMC reported July revenue of NT$467.58 billion, up 44.7% from NT$323.17 billion a year earlier and 5.6% from June.

For January through July, cumulative revenue reached NT$2.872 trillion, representing 37% growth from the same period of 2025.

The July numbers extend the momentum seen in TSMC's latest quarterly earnings and provide another indication that demand for leading-edge chip manufacturing remains strong entering the second half of 2026.

TSMC Earnings Show Strength of Advanced Chip Demand

TSMC's second-quarter results, released in July, already demonstrated the scale of the current semiconductor expansion.

Q2 revenue increased 36% year over year to NT$1.27 trillion, while net income surged 77.4% to NT$706.56 billion. Diluted EPS also increased 77.4% to NT$27.25, equivalent to $4.31 per ADR.

Profitability remained exceptionally strong, with a 67.7% gross margin, 60.3% operating margin and 55.6% net margin.

Advanced manufacturing technologies were central to the performance. Chips produced using 7-nanometer and more advanced processes accounted for 77% of total wafer revenue, including 33% from 5nm, 30% from 3nm and an initial 3% contribution from the company's new 2nm technology.

Management expects the 2nm ramp to accelerate in the third quarter.

AI Remains a Major Catalyst for TSMC and Chip Sector

TSMC sits at the center of the global AI semiconductor supply chain because many leading chip designers depend on its advanced manufacturing capacity.

Continued investment in AI accelerators, data centers and high-performance computing has increased demand for the advanced process technologies needed to manufacture increasingly powerful chips.

The company's latest numbers suggest that this demand remains robust. July's 44.7% year-over-year revenue increase was even stronger than the 36% growth reported for the second quarter.

TSMC expects third-quarter revenue of $44.6 billion to $45.8 billion, with gross margin between 65% and 67% and operating margin between 56% and 58%.

Those forecasts indicate that the current expansion in advanced semiconductor demand is translating not only into higher sales but also into exceptionally strong profitability.

TSM Stock Up 18% Over Six Months

TSMC's U.S.-listed shares closed Friday at $420.04, up 0.44% for the session. The stock was little changed in early Monday premarket trading following the July sales announcement.

Despite periods of volatility, TSM has gained approximately 18.2% over the past six months. The shares recently traded above $450 before pulling back toward $420, while remaining substantially above their late-March levels.

The latest monthly sales data provide further fundamental support for the broader AI and semiconductor investment theme. As the world's dominant advanced-chip foundry, TSMC's revenue trends are closely watched as an indicator of underlying demand across the chip industry.

July's 44.7% growth, combined with strong Q2 earnings and the accelerating 2nm production ramp, suggests that demand for advanced computing capacity remains strong. The key question for TSMC and the wider semiconductor sector is whether the extraordinary pace of AI infrastructure investment can sustain this level of growth as the industry moves through the second half of 2026.

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The Investor 08-10-26

### TSMC (TSM) Rebounds in Premarket After Citigroup Reiterates Buy Rating

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (NYSE: TSM) rebounded in premarket trading on Monday after Citigroup reiterated its Buy rating on the chipmaker, helping restore investor confidence following Thursday's selloff.

TSMC shares fell 2.3% during Thursday's regular session but gained 2.4% in premarket trading after Citigroup reaffirmed its bullish stance on the stock.

The reiterated Buy rating reflects continued confidence in TSMC's long-term growth prospects as the world's leading contract semiconductor manufacturer. The reaffirmation comes as demand for advanced AI chips and high-performance computing remains a key driver for the company.

TSMC continues to benefit from strong capital spending by leading technology companies developing artificial intelligence infrastructure, with its cutting-edge manufacturing processes positioning the company at the center of the AI semiconductor supply chain.

The premarket rebound suggests investors looked past Thursday's weakness, with Citigroup's positive rating reinforcing expectations that TSMC remains well positioned to capitalize on long-term growth in AI, cloud computing, and advanced semiconductor demand.

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European Investor 07-06-26

TSMC Gains as Susquehanna Reiterates Positive Rating

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (NYSE: TSM) rose 1.2% after Susquehanna reiterated its Positive rating, underscoring continued confidence in the world's largest contract chip manufacturer.

The analyst's stance reflects optimism surrounding TSMC's dominant position in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, where the company remains a critical supplier to many of the world's leading technology firms. TSMC produces cutting-edge chips for customers including Apple, Nvidia, AMD, and numerous AI-focused companies.

Investor sentiment toward TSMC has remained strong as artificial intelligence spending continues to drive demand for advanced processors. The company is widely viewed as one of the most important beneficiaries of the global AI investment cycle because nearly every major AI chip designer relies on TSMC's manufacturing capabilities.

Demand for advanced process technologies, particularly 3nm and future 2nm nodes, is expected to remain robust as customers develop increasingly powerful AI accelerators, data center processors, and next-generation consumer devices.

The stock's advance also comes amid broader strength across the semiconductor sector, where analysts have recently raised expectations for AI-related capital spending and long-term industry growth. Recent bullish commentary on companies such as ASML, Applied Materials, KLA, Lam Research, AMD, and Micron has reinforced confidence in the semiconductor supply chain.

By maintaining its Positive rating, Susquehanna signaled continued confidence that TSMC's technology leadership and unmatched manufacturing scale position the company to remain a key beneficiary of the ongoing AI-driven semiconductor boom.

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Global Finance News 06-22-26

TSMC stock today: Taiwan Semi slips premarket on Nvidia H200 supply talks and a 2nm production update

TSMC stock today: Taiwan Semi slips premarket on Nvidia H200 supply talks and a 2nm production update - TechStock²

(ts2.tech)

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WS News 12-31-25

The Hidden Backbone of the AI Boom

The hidden backbone of the AI ...

(thesmartinvestor.com.sg)

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WS Investor 10-26-25

3 US AI Stocks Still Worth Buying at Market Highs

3 US AI stocks ...

(thesmartinvestor.com.sg)

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The Investor 10-23-25

10 Best Stocks to Own in 2025 – Handpicked from the Morningstar Universe | Dr Wealth

10 best stocks to own in 2025 ...

(drwealth.com)

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Global Finance News 10-21-25

Synopsys (NASDAQ: SNPS) announced an expanded collaboration with TSMC to enable advanced 2D and 3D chip design solutions, targeting applications in AI, high-speed data communications, and advanced computing. The partnership integrates Ansys simulation and analysis tools into TSMC’s latest process technologies, including N3C, N3P, N2P, and A16, with certified workflows for power, thermal, and electromagnetic integrity.

The companies also introduced an AI-assisted optimization flow for TSMC’s COUPE photonic platform, aimed at shortening design cycles and improving quality for optical and photonic systems. By combining Synopsys’ 3DIC design tools with Ansys multiphysics platforms, the collaboration supports larger, more complex designs and enhances resilience against electrical stress, enabling chipmakers to accelerate development of energy-efficient, high-performance semiconductors for next-generation technologies.

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WS Investor 09-24-25

Artificial Intelligence is Booming: 5 Attractive US Stocks to Help You Latch on to This Trend - The Smart Investor

With artificial intelligence seeing sustained interest, here’s how you can participate in the growth of this nascent sector.

(thesmartinvestor.com.sg)

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WS News 05-28-25

Synopsys and TSMC advance angstrom-scale chip design with certified EDA flows on A16 and N2P processes

Synopsys, Inc. announced continued collaboration with TSMC to accelerate semiconductor design at the angstrom scale, enabling AI and 3D multi-die innovation through advanced EDA and IP solutions certified for TSMC’s leading-edge A16 and N2P processes.

Key developments include:
- Certified digital and analog design flows for TSMC A16 and N2P, powered by Synopsys.ai, supporting improved power, performance, and design migration efficiency
- Ongoing development of EDA flows for TSMC’s upcoming A14 process
- Expanded 3D integration capabilities using Synopsys 3DIC Compiler and TSMC’s CoWoS® technology, supporting 5.5x reticle size interposers
- Certified IC Validator signoff physical verification for A16 and N2P, including 3Dblox and ESD rule support
- Broad portfolio of silicon-proven IP for high-speed interfaces including PCIe 7.0, 1.6T Ethernet, HBM4, UCIe, USB4, DDR5, LPDDR6, and MIPI standards
- Enhanced support for next-generation AI and HPC workloads with advanced PHY IP and integrated multi-physics analysis

Synopsys emphasized its role in delivering mission-critical tools and IP for cutting-edge system-on-chip (SoC) designs, enabling reduced development risk, faster time to market, and higher performance across a range of applications.

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European Investor 04-24-25

10-09-26Global Finance News

10-09-26WS News

08-10-26The Investor

07-16-26WS News

US Bonds

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The Investor 10-06-26

The deeper reason behind the relentless rise in bond yields

Ignore hysteria calls on rising bond yields.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS News 09-28-26

U.S. 7-Year Treasury Auction Yield Jumps to 5.085%

The U.S. Treasury’s latest 7-year note auction cleared at a yield of 5.085%, sharply above the previous auction’s 4.512%.

The roughly 57-basis-point increase signals a materially higher yield environment for intermediate-term U.S. government debt and may reflect investors demanding greater compensation amid persistent inflation, resilient economic data and uncertainty over the Federal Reserve’s rate path.

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WS Investor 09-24-26

10-year Treasury yield hits highest level since 2007 as market prices in another Fed rate hike

The 10-year Treasury yield rose to its highest level since 2007 on Wednesday.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS News 09-23-26

Treasury Yields Are Climbing. Can Stocks Hold Their Ground?

Rising Treasury yields, persistent inflation, and weakening small caps put pressure on stocks. Here's what investors should watch next.

(articles.stockcharts.com)

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The Investor 09-12-26

U.S. 10-Year Treasury Yield Nears 5% as Inflation and Oil Keep Bond Markets Under Pressure

U.S. Treasury yields remained near multi-year highs Friday, with the benchmark 10-year yield trading around 4.94%, just below the psychologically important 5% level. The yield briefly reached about 4.97% earlier as a global bond selloff continued.

The sharp rise in yields has been driven by renewed inflation concerns and expectations that the Federal Reserve could raise interest rates next week. U.S. producer prices rose 0.4% in August and 5.4% year-over-year, while the surge in oil prices above $100 a barrel has increased concerns that energy costs could keep inflation elevated. Markets are currently pricing roughly a 70% chance of a 25-basis-point Fed hike. (Reuters)

Pressure has also emerged from the supply side of the Treasury market. The government bought back $5.2 billion of longer-dated bonds in its latest operation, below the $6 billion maximum and well below the $10.5 billion offered by investors. Concerns about heavy government borrowing are adding to the premium investors demand for holding longer-term debt. (Reuters)

Attention now turns to Friday’s U.S. CPI report. A hotter-than-expected inflation reading could push the 10-year yield through 5%, while softer inflation could provide some relief to the bond market ahead of the Fed’s September 15–16 meeting.

Graph: cnbc*com

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European Investor 09-11-26

U.S. 10-Year Treasury Yield Surges Above 4.92% as Oil and Inflation Revive Rate-Hike Fears

The U.S. 10-year Treasury yield climbed to 4.922% on Thursday, rising about 8 basis points and reaching its highest level since 2023 as escalating Middle East tensions, surging oil prices and persistent U.S. inflation fueled a sharp bond-market selloff.

Geopolitical developments remain a major driver. The U.S.-Iran conflict has severely disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea, while attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure have intensified supply concerns.

The resulting oil rally is feeding directly into inflation expectations. Brent crude has climbed above $104 a barrel, while WTI briefly crossed $100 on Thursday. Higher energy costs raise the risk that inflation remains elevated, reducing the likelihood that the Federal Reserve can ease monetary policy and increasing the possibility of another rate hike.

Thursday’s macro data reinforced those concerns. U.S. producer prices rose 0.4% month over month in August, while annual PPI accelerated to 5.4% from 4.8%, slightly exceeding the 5.3% forecast. Traders subsequently raised the probability of at least a 25-basis-point Fed rate hike next week to nearly 70%. (Reuters)

The 10-year yield has now risen sharply from around 4.75% over the past five sessions. With oil prices elevated and Friday’s U.S. CPI report still ahead, the 5% level is increasingly coming into focus as the next major threshold for the Treasury market.

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The Investor 09-10-26

Apple event live updates: First foldable, the iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro, watches, and more

Apple is hosting its annual fall event at its Cupertino, Calif., headquarters.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS Investor 09-09-26

U.S. 10-Year Treasury Auction Yield Jumps to 4.834% as Oil Fuels Inflation Concerns

The U.S. Treasury’s 10-year note auction cleared at 4.834% on Wednesday, sharply above the 4.683% yield at the previous auction, reflecting the broader rise in long-term U.S. borrowing costs.

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WS Investor 09-09-26

US Stocks Rise as Treasury Bond-Market Support Eases Yield Pressure

U.S. stocks were mostly higher Wednesday as the Treasury Department’s expanded bond-buyback operations continued to support sentiment by easing pressure in the government debt market.

The S&P 500 was up 0.37% at 7,719.85, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.46% to 53,588.62. The Nasdaq Composite, however, slipped 0.05% to 26,277.81, giving back its earlier gains as technology stocks lagged the broader market.

Treasury Intervention Brings Relief to Bonds and Stocks

The main catalyst supporting risk sentiment was Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s move to bolster liquidity in the Treasury market. The department said it would at least double the maximum size of liquidity-support buybacks for longer-dated Treasury securities, increasing operations from $2 billion to at least $4 billion and targeting the 10- to 30-year portion of the curve.

Bond yields dropped sharply following the announcement. The benchmark 10-year Treasury yield fell about 6 basis points to around 4.65%, while the 30-year yield declined roughly 9 basis points to around 5.20%. Treasury prices and yields move inversely.

The action has provided some relief after the recent surge in long-term borrowing costs became a major headwind for equities. The 30-year Treasury yield had climbed to around 5.34% on Tuesday, its highest level in nearly two decades, amid concerns over government borrowing, inflation, the U.S.-Iran conflict and elevated energy prices.

Dow Leads While Nasdaq Loses Momentum

The latest market action shows a divergence beneath the headline indexes. The Dow is now outperforming with a 0.46% gain, while the S&P 500 remains moderately higher. The Nasdaq has reversed its earlier advance and is trading slightly lower.

The reversal suggests that lower Treasury yields have not been enough to sustain the initial rebound in technology stocks. Growth and technology shares remain particularly sensitive to changes in long-term rates because higher yields reduce the present value of expected future earnings.

For the broader market, however, Treasury intervention has eased one of Wall Street’s most immediate concerns and helped stabilize financial conditions.

Investors will continue to monitor the Treasury market, oil prices and developments surrounding the U.S.-Iran conflict. The Federal Reserve’s July meeting minutes are also in focus for additional clues about the outlook for monetary policy, inflation and interest rates.

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Global Finance News 08-19-26

10-09-26WS News

10-06-26The Investor

10-04-26The Investor

10-03-26WS News

NASDAQ:PLTR

Palantir Stock Rises 2.8% After Goldman Sachs and Raymond James Upgrades

Palantir shares rose about 2.8% to $199.60 after receiving two analyst upgrades, with Goldman Sachs moving the stock to Buy from Neutral and setting a $230 price target, while Raymond James upgraded shares to Outperform from Market Perform.

Goldman’s more bullish view centers on expectations that Palantir could enter another phase of outperformance into 2027. The firm sees the company’s total addressable market expanding as demand grows around sovereign AI, bespoke applications and Palantir’s verticalization strategy.(Yahoofinance)

Goldman also highlighted Palantir’s ability to connect its field engineering teams with product development, creating a feedback loop that helps customers build customized software applications and allows Palantir to scale those capabilities more efficiently.(Yahoofinance)

The stock is now trading close to its prior record high, suggesting investors are increasingly willing to pay for the prospect of another leg of growth despite Palantir’s already elevated valuation.

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European Investor 10-08-26

Palantir and Fujitsu Expand Partnership to Accelerate Enterprise AI Adoption

Palantir Technologies and Fujitsu have expanded their strategic partnership to accelerate enterprise AI adoption in Japan and global markets, with Fujitsu becoming a Global Forward Deployed Engineering (FDE) Partner.

Under a new agreement with Palantir Technologies Japan, Fujitsu will expand its use of Palantir’s Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP) and Foundry while investing in FDE capabilities. The partnership will focus particularly on sovereign AI, allowing enterprises to deploy AI applications while maintaining greater control over their data, models, infrastructure and operations.

The companies highlighted an existing deployment in which Fujitsu used Palantir technology to build a supply-chain resilience system for a major Japanese manufacturer. The platform integrated information from more than 3,000 suppliers and 18 factories, generating more than $10 million in cost savings within one year while doubling operational productivity.

Fujitsu plans to combine Palantir AIP and Foundry with its own technologies, including its Takane large language model and Uvance offerings, to develop customized enterprise AI applications.

The expanded agreement builds on a strategic relationship dating to 2020 and comes as Palantir broadens its enterprise AI ecosystem.

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The Investor 09-10-26

NVIDIA and Palantir Partner to Bring Sovereign AI to Critical Supply Chains

NVIDIA and Palantir Technologies announced a new collaboration Thursday to develop a sovereign AI stack designed to optimize complex supply chains, with the technology initially being deployed across NVIDIA’s own operations.

The platform combines NVIDIA’s Nemotron open AI models with Palantir Foundry and its Artificial Intelligence Platform, or AIP. Grounded in Palantir’s Ontology, the system is designed to identify supply constraints, improve visibility and help organizations make operational decisions while maintaining control of proprietary data.

NVIDIA is using the technology to manage one of the semiconductor industry’s most complicated supply chains. The company said each Vera Rubin rack requires about 1.3 million parts, with production dependent on coordinated supplies of compute, memory, networking, power, cooling and mechanical components.

The companies plan to extend the technology beyond NVIDIA to industries including manufacturing, energy, healthcare, automotive and aerospace. Customers will be able to deploy the AI stack on-premises, in colocation facilities or in the cloud while retaining ownership and control of their models and operational data.

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The Investor 09-10-26

Palantir and Nebius Partner to Build Sovereign AI Infrastructure for Enterprise Customers

Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) and Nebius Group (NASDAQ: NBIS) announced a strategic partnership aimed at giving Palantir’s commercial customers greater control over the infrastructure, data and models powering their artificial intelligence applications.

Under the agreement, Palantir named Nebius its preferred sovereign AI infrastructure partner. Following an integration period, Nebius compute infrastructure and inference endpoints will be brought inside the Palantir enterprise perimeter, allowing eligible customers to access Nebius cloud and AI infrastructure directly through Palantir’s ecosystem.

The partnership combines Nebius’ AI-native computing platform with Palantir’s Sovereign AI Operating System, which incorporates AIP, Ontology, Foundry and Apollo. Customers will be able to deploy open AI models on Nebius infrastructure and continuously adapt those models using proprietary organizational data while retaining control over their compute, models and information.

The companies also plan to accelerate the deployment of additional AI computing capacity, including modular data centers at locations where power infrastructure is already available. The approach could help address one of the major constraints facing the AI industry: rapidly bringing additional computing capacity online.

For Palantir, the partnership expands the infrastructure available behind its enterprise AI platform. For Nebius, becoming Palantir’s preferred sovereign AI infrastructure partner provides another channel for its rapidly expanding AI cloud and compute business as enterprises increase spending on AI infrastructure.

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The Investor 09-08-26

Palantir and PwC Expand Alliance to Scale Enterprise AI

Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) and PwC US have expanded their strategic alliance to help companies deploy artificial intelligence across core business operations, with an initial focus on enterprise AI, mergers and acquisitions, and ERP modernization.

The collaboration combines Palantir’s Foundry and Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP) with PwC’s consulting, engineering and industry expertise. The companies aim to help enterprises move AI projects from pilots into production and embed AI into areas such as supply chains, logistics, cybersecurity and customer management.

AI-Native M&A and ERP Transformation

A major part of the expanded partnership is a new AI-native deals IT platform powered by Palantir Foundry and AIP. PwC and Palantir said the platform is designed to help companies execute M&A transactions up to 50% faster while reducing one-time transaction costs by as much as 45%.

The companies will also use Palantir’s AI technology alongside PwC’s SAP expertise to improve data quality and reduce risks during ERP transformations.

For Palantir, the expanded PwC relationship could broaden enterprise adoption of its AI software by combining its technology with PwC’s large corporate client base and implementation capabilities. The agreement also strengthens Palantir’s position in the growing enterprise AI market, where companies are increasingly shifting from experimental AI projects toward production-scale deployments.

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The Investor 09-04-26

Palantir Wins U.S. Army Contract to Deliver Eight AI-Powered TITAN Systems

Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) has secured a new U.S. Army contract to produce and deliver eight Tactical Intelligence Targeting Access Node, or TITAN, systems, expanding the company’s role in the military’s deployment of artificial intelligence and next-generation battlefield intelligence technology.

The agreement, awarded by Army Contracting Command to Palantir’s USG subsidiary, covers four Advanced and four Basic TITAN systems. The Advanced version provides greater processing and integration capabilities, while the Basic version is designed for mobility and rapid deployment. Financial terms of the contract were not disclosed.

TITAN is an AI- and machine learning-enabled ground station designed to process data from space, high-altitude, aerial and terrestrial sensors. The system converts that information into actionable targeting intelligence that can support mission command and long-range precision fires.

Palantir will serve as the prime contractor, overseeing manufacturing and delivery of the complete systems while providing the software that powers TITAN. The platform also integrates technologies from defense and technology partners including Anduril Industries, L3Harris Technologies, Sierra Nevada Corporation, Strategic Technology Consulting and World Wide Technology.

The new award moves TITAN beyond its earlier prototype phase and further into production and operational deployment. Palantir will also continue supporting TITAN prototype systems already fielded with Army units while developing future capabilities.

The contract reinforces Palantir’s growing position at the intersection of AI, defense software and battlefield data integration. TITAN is particularly significant because Palantir is not simply supplying analytics software but acting as the prime contractor for an integrated hardware-and-software military system, potentially expanding the scope of opportunities available to the company within the U.S. defense sector.

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The Investor 09-02-26

Palantir Stock Soars 23% After Blowout Q2 Results and Massive Guidance Increase

Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) surged 23% on Tuesday after delivering another blockbuster quarterly report that significantly exceeded Wall Street expectations. The AI software company reported explosive revenue growth, record commercial demand and sharply raised its full-year outlook, reinforcing its position as one of the biggest beneficiaries of accelerating enterprise AI adoption.

Second-quarter revenue jumped 93% year over year to $1.94 billion, while U.S. commercial revenue surged an extraordinary 149% to $764 million. Total U.S. revenue climbed 115% to $1.57 billion, supported by continued strength across both commercial and government customers.

U.S. Commercial Business Continues to Accelerate

The company's commercial momentum remained the key highlight of the quarter. Palantir closed a record $2.13 billion in U.S. commercial total contract value (TCV), up 153% from a year ago, while U.S. commercial remaining deal value increased 124% to $6.24 billion.

Overall, the company closed 220 deals worth at least $1 million during the quarter, including 73 contracts exceeding $10 million. Total contract value reached $3.37 billion, up 49% year over year, highlighting sustained demand for Palantir's AI-driven software platform.

CEO Alex Karp said growing demand for "AI sovereignty" is driving organizations toward platforms that allow customers to retain full control of their data while deploying artificial intelligence at scale.

Profitability and Cash Flow Reach New Highs

Palantir also demonstrated exceptional profitability alongside its rapid growth. GAAP operating income reached $912 million, representing a 47% operating margin, while adjusted operating income climbed to $1.19 billion, or 62% of revenue.

GAAP net income totaled $1.06 billion, with both adjusted free cash flow and cash from operations exceeding $1.2 billion. The company ended the quarter with $9.2 billion in cash, cash equivalents and short-term U.S. Treasury securities, providing significant financial flexibility.

Guidance Raised Well Above Expectations

Management substantially increased its 2026 outlook, now expecting full-year revenue between $8.15 billion and $8.16 billion, representing approximately 82% annual growth. The company also raised its U.S. commercial revenue forecast to more than $3.42 billion, implying at least 134% growth, while increasing adjusted operating income guidance to as much as $4.90 billion.

## What to Watch

Tuesday's rally reflects investor confidence that Palantir remains one of the strongest AI growth stories in the market. Investors will now focus on whether the company can sustain its exceptional commercial growth, continue converting large enterprise contracts into recurring revenue, and maintain its industry-leading profitability as AI adoption accelerates globally.

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European Investor 08-04-26

Palantir (PLTR) Stock Rises After DA Davidson Upgrades Shares to Buy

Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) shares gained approximately 3.5% on Thursday after DA Davidson upgraded the software company to Buy from Neutral and raised its price target to $175 from $165.

The upgrade comes as Palantir continues to benefit from strong investor enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence, with the company expanding its presence across both commercial and government markets through its AI-driven software platforms.

DA Davidson upgraded the stock and increased its price target, reflecting a more constructive outlook on the shares. The positive analyst action added to investor optimism surrounding Palantir's long-term growth potential.

Palantir has been one of the strongest performers in the software sector this year as enterprises continue increasing investments in AI applications, data analytics, and automation. The company has also continued to win government contracts while expanding adoption of its Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP) among commercial customers.

# Why PLTR Stock Rose

Several factors supported the stock:

* DA Davidson upgraded Palantir to Buy from Neutral.
* The firm raised its price target to $175 from $165.
* Continued optimism around enterprise AI adoption and government demand has supported investor sentiment toward Palantir.
* The company remains well positioned to benefit from growing investment in AI-powered software and data analytics.

The combination of a rating upgrade and continued optimism surrounding the AI sector helped lift Palantir shares approximately 3.5% during Thursday's trading session.

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Global Finance News 07-02-26

Palantir Stock Gains After Analyst Upgrades Shares to Buy

Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) shares rose 4% on Monday after President Capital upgraded the stock to Buy from Neutral and significantly increased its price target, reinforcing bullish sentiment toward the AI software company.

The firm raised its price target to $133 from $25.50, reflecting increased confidence in Palantir's growth trajectory as demand for artificial intelligence, data analytics, and defense software platforms continues to expand.

The upgrade comes as Palantir continues to benefit from strong adoption of its AI-powered platforms across both government and commercial customers. Investors remain optimistic that accelerating enterprise AI deployment and growing federal contracts will support robust revenue growth in the coming quarters.

The analyst action also coincided with a broader rally in technology stocks, supported by easing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran and improving investor risk appetite.

At the time of writing, Palantir shares were trading around $117, up approximately 4% during Monday's session as investors welcomed the bullish analyst upgrade.

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European Investor 06-29-26

Palantir Slips as Wall Street Issues Mixed Ratings

Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) shares fell 2.7% as investors digested a wave of new analyst coverage that highlighted both the company's strong artificial intelligence prospects and concerns about its elevated valuation.

The stock received mixed treatment from Wall Street. UBS upgraded Palantir and assigned a Buy rating with a $200 price target, reflecting optimism about the company's growing role in the AI software market and expanding commercial business. Wedbush also initiated coverage with an Outperform rating, reinforcing the bullish case for continued growth.

However, not all analysts share that enthusiasm. BTIG Research downgraded the stock to Neutral, while Benchmark moved to Hold. BNP Paribas Exane initiated coverage with an Underperform rating, signaling concerns that recent years' gains may have outpaced fundamentals.

The conflicting analyst views come after Palantir's remarkable rally over the past 2 years, driven by surging demand for its Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP), expanding government contracts, and accelerating adoption among commercial customers. The company has emerged as one of the market's most prominent AI beneficiaries, helping push its valuation to levels that have divided analysts.

The stock's decline suggests investors are taking a more cautious stance following its strong run, with valuation concerns temporarily outweighing enthusiasm for the company's growth prospects. Still, the presence of multiple bullish ratings and a $200 price target from UBS indicates that many analysts continue to see substantial long-term upside tied to Palantir's leadership in enterprise AI.

The mixed ratings underscore the central debate surrounding Palantir: whether its rapid growth in AI-driven software can justify one of the market's richest valuations.

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Global Finance News 06-16-26

10-09-26WS News

10-08-26European Investor

09-30-26WS News

09-28-26WS News

NYSE:CIEN

Ciena Stock Rises 3.7% as Evercore Upgrades Shares to Outperform

Ciena shares rose 3.7% to $361.71 after Evercore upgraded the networking equipment company to Outperform from In-Line and set a $550 price target.

The target implies roughly 52% upside from the latest share price, reflecting a substantially more constructive view on Ciena’s longer-term growth potential.

Behind the positive sentiment include accelerating demand for optical networking, data-center interconnects and high-capacity infrastructure needed to support AI workloads. Rising bandwidth requirements from hyperscalers and cloud providers continue to strengthen the outlook for companies supplying advanced networking systems.

Ciena has also recently outlined ambitious fiscal 2029 targets, including approximately 30% annual revenue growth from 2026 through 2029 and significant margin expansion, which has reinforced investor focus on its exposure to AI-driven network investment.

The Evercore upgrade adds to that favorable backdrop, while the 3.7% gain suggests investors are increasingly confident in Ciena’s ability to benefit from sustained growth in cloud and AI infrastructure spending.

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The Investor 09-21-26

Ciena Stock Rises 4.9% as Long-Term Growth Targets and Analyst Support Boost Sentiment

Ciena shares rose 4.9% to $357.16 after the networking equipment company outlined ambitious fiscal 2029 financial targets and received several supportive analyst updates.

Ciena said it is targeting revenue growth of approximately 30% annually from fiscal 2026 through fiscal 2029, alongside an adjusted gross margin of about 50%, an adjusted operating margin of 32% to 35%, and free cash flow margins of roughly 20%.

Management said the outlook is supported by growing customer demand, expanding supply capacity, a differentiated product portfolio and new addressable markets. The company also plans to reorganize its reporting structure beginning in fiscal 2027 into Optical Systems, Interconnects, Global Services, and Routing and Other.

Analyst sentiment was also constructive. Rosenblatt Securities reiterated a Buy rating with a $525 price target, while Needham maintained a Buy rating with a $520 target. Morgan Stanley raised its price target to $450 from $425 while maintaining an Equal Weight rating.

Beyond the analyst actions, investors are likely responding to Ciena’s exposure to rapidly expanding AI-related network traffic and data-center connectivity demand. Higher bandwidth requirements, cloud infrastructure investment and growing demand for optical networking could support the company’s long-term growth ambitions if execution remains strong.

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The Investor 09-17-26

Ciena Stock Plunges 11.4% Despite Record Q3 Results as High Expectations Overshadow Strong AI Demand

Ciena (NYSE: CIEN) shares fell 11.4% Thursday despite reporting record fiscal third-quarter results, with revenue and earnings surging as artificial intelligence continues to drive investment in high-speed networking infrastructure.

Fiscal Q3 revenue reached $1.67 billion, up 37% from $1.22 billion a year earlier. Adjusted EPS jumped 215% to $2.11 from $0.67, while GAAP diluted EPS increased to $1.83 from $0.35. Ciena also raised its full-year revenue outlook to $6.42 billion, plus or minus $50 million, representing approximately 35% year-over-year growth at the midpoint.

Profitability improved substantially alongside the revenue expansion. GAAP gross margin increased to 45.4% from 41.3%, while operating margin expanded to 18.0% from 6.1%. EBITDA more than tripled to $349.9 million from $109.2 million.

AI-related network investment remains a major growth driver. Optical Networking revenue climbed to $1.19 billion from $815.5 million, while total Networking Platforms revenue reached $1.36 billion, accounting for more than 81% of quarterly sales. Management said AI is generating “compounding waves” of network investment as customers require increasingly high-speed connectivity.

For the fourth quarter, Ciena expects revenue of $1.75 billion, plus or minus $50 million, adjusted gross margin around 45% and adjusted operating margin around 20%.

The sharp stock decline therefore appears less connected to deterioration in Ciena’s underlying business and more to elevated expectations following the stock’s strong exposure to the AI infrastructure theme. Customer concentration may also be attracting attention: just two customers accounted for 41.7% of Q3 revenue. With revenue, earnings and margins all expanding rapidly, Thursday’s 11.4% selloff suggests investors were demanding an even stronger outlook after pricing in substantial AI-driven growth.

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European Investor 09-03-26

Ciena Stock Falls 10.9% as TD Cowen Cuts Price Target to $575

Ciena (NYSE: CIEN) shares are down 10.9% after TD Cowen lowered its price target on the networking equipment company, adding pressure to the stock despite the firm maintaining its Buy rating.

Analyst Joshua Buchalter reduced TD Cowen’s price target for Ciena from $675 to $575. The new target remains substantially above the current stock price of about $396.64, indicating that TD Cowen continues to see meaningful longer-term upside despite becoming more cautious on valuation.

Why the Target Cut Matters

The reduction from $675 to $575 represents a roughly 15% cut to TD Cowen’s valuation target. However, retaining the Buy recommendation suggests the analyst’s longer-term investment thesis has not fundamentally changed.

Ciena is a major supplier of optical networking and telecommunications infrastructure, with its technology increasingly relevant to the expansion of cloud and AI data centers. Rapid growth in AI workloads is driving demand for high-capacity optical connectivity both within and between data centers, making networking infrastructure an important part of the broader AI infrastructure investment cycle.

The company therefore has exposure to several structural growth themes, including AI data-center connectivity, cloud infrastructure expansion and rising bandwidth requirements.

Still, Ciena's strong exposure to these themes can also result in elevated valuation expectations. A price-target reduction may reflect a more conservative assessment of the valuation investors should assign to future growth, particularly when technology and AI-infrastructure stocks face broader selling pressure.

CIEN Remains a Buy at TD Cowen

Despite Tuesday's sharp decline and the lower target, TD Cowen maintained its Buy rating. The revised $575 target is approximately 45% above the $396.64 share price indicated in the report.

That distinction is important: the analyst is lowering the magnitude of expected upside rather than turning bearish on Ciena.

Investors will now be watching whether Ciena's AI and cloud-driven optical networking demand can continue supporting revenue and earnings growth strongly enough to justify the premium expectations that have been built into the stock.

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European Investor 08-18-26

Ciena Plunges Despite Blowout Earnings and Raised Full-Year Guidance

Ciena (CIEN) shares tumbled roughly 14% despite reporting one of its strongest quarters in years, highlighting the increasingly high expectations investors have for companies tied to AI infrastructure spending.

The networking equipment provider delivered fiscal second-quarter revenue of $1.57 billion, up nearly 40% year-over-year, while adjusted earnings per share surged 290% to $1.64. The company also expanded margins significantly, with adjusted operating margin reaching 19.5% compared with 8.2% a year earlier.

Management struck an optimistic tone, citing strong demand for high-speed connectivity solutions driven by artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data center expansion. Ciena raised its full-year fiscal 2026 revenue outlook to $6.3 billion, representing approximately 32% annual growth at the midpoint, while also projecting continued margin expansion.

The results showed strength across key product categories. Optical networking revenue climbed to nearly $1.1 billion, while routing and switching revenue almost doubled from the prior year. The company also guided for another strong quarter ahead, forecasting fiscal third-quarter revenue of approximately $1.63 billion.

Despite the impressive numbers, investors appeared to focus on expectations rather than results. Following a strong run in AI-related infrastructure stocks, the market may have been looking for an even larger guidance increase or stronger forward projections. The selloff suggests profit-taking and elevated expectations, rather than any deterioration in the company's fundamentals.

While the market reaction was sharply negative, the earnings report reinforced Ciena's position as a major beneficiary of the growing demand for AI-driven networking and data center infrastructure.

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WS Investor 06-04-26

Ciena said fiscal Q4 2025 and full-year 2025 results reflected strong demand for high-speed connectivity, positioning the company to benefit from expanding opportunities tied to cloud, service provider, and data-center/A I-related networking spend.

For fiscal Q4 (ended November 1, 2025), revenue rose 20% year over year to $1.35 billion. Gross margin improved to 42.7% on a GAAP basis (43.4% non-GAAP), while GAAP operating margin fell to 0.8% due to a sharp increase in operating expenses that included significant asset impairments and restructuring costs. GAAP diluted EPS was $0.13, while adjusted diluted EPS was $0.91. Adjusted EBITDA increased to $205.5 million, up from $136.7 million a year earlier.

For fiscal year 2025, revenue increased 19% to $4.77 billion. GAAP diluted EPS was $0.85 and adjusted diluted EPS was $2.64. Adjusted EBITDA rose to $636.7 million, versus $481.0 million in fiscal 2024, reflecting operating leverage despite higher expense levels.

By segment, Networking Platforms remained the core driver, representing about 77% of revenue in both the quarter and the year. Optical Networking was the largest component (about 69% of Q4 revenue; 68% of full-year revenue). Global Services contributed about 13% of revenue in Q4 and the full year, while Platform Software and Services and Blue Planet contributed smaller but meaningful shares.

Ciena guided to fiscal Q1 2026 revenue of $1.35 billion to $1.43 billion, with adjusted gross margin of 43% to 44%, adjusted operating expense of about $380 million, and adjusted operating margin of 15.5% to 16.5%. For fiscal year 2026, the company guided to revenue of $5.7 billion to $6.1 billion, adjusted gross margin of 43% plus or minus 1%, adjusted operating expense of about $1.52 billion, and adjusted operating margin of 17% plus or minus 1%.

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Global Finance News 12-12-25

VantagePoint Vantagepoint A.I. Hot Stocks Outlook for October 31, 2025 Stocks $PSA, $QGEN, $CIEN, $LCID, $GS, $WRBY

hot stocks outlook for the week ...

(vantagepointsoftware.com)

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Global Finance News 11-02-25

VantagePoint Vantagepoint A.I. Hot Stocks Outlook for October 24, 2025 Stocks $PSA, $QGEN, $CIEN, $LCID, $GS, $WRBY

HOT STOCKS FOR THE WEEK ...

(vantagepointsoftware.com)

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Global Finance News 10-25-25

VantagePoint Vantagepoint A.I. Hot Stocks Outlook for October 17, 2025 Stocks $LUNR, $CGAU, $CIEN, $ICE, $RF

Hot stocks outlook for the week ...

(vantagepointsoftware.com)

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WS Investor 10-20-25

Ciena to acquire Nubis Communications for $270M

Ciena (NYSE: CIEN) will acquire privately held Nubis Communications in an all-cash deal valued at $270 million. Nubis, based in New Jersey, develops ultra-compact, low-power optical and electrical interconnects designed for AI workloads, including co-packaged optics and advanced active copper cable solutions.

The acquisition will expand Ciena’s high-speed interconnect portfolio, boost data center scale and efficiency, and add over 50 engineers to its R&D team. Closing is expected in Ciena’s fiscal Q4 2025, subject to customary conditions.

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WS Investor 09-22-25

10-09-26WS News

Japan

Japan Household Spending Falls 3.1% in August, Beating Expectations

Japan’s household spending declined 3.1% year over year in August, slightly better than the 3.5% drop expected by economists and improving from the previous month’s 3.6% decline.

On a monthly basis, household spending rose just 0.1%, missing the 0.5% increase expected and slowing from the previous 0.5% gain.

The data present a mixed picture for Japanese consumer demand. The smaller-than-expected annual decline suggests spending conditions may be stabilizing, but the weak monthly increase points to limited momentum in household consumption

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WS News 10-09-26

Japan Current Account Surplus Widens Sharply in August

Japan’s current account surplus rose to ¥4.062 trillion in August, well above the ¥3.194 trillion market consensus and up from ¥2.989 trillion previously.

The stronger-than-expected surplus points to an improvement in Japan’s external balance during the month, reflecting a larger net inflow from trade, services and overseas investment income.

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The Investor 10-08-26

Japan’s 10-year government bond auction yield rose to 3.101%, up from 2.995% at the previous auction.

The higher yield indicates investors demanded greater returns to hold longer-dated Japanese government debt, reflecting continued upward pressure on borrowing costs.

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Global Finance News 10-06-26

Japan Services PMI Slips to 51.3 in September, Missing Expectations

Japan’s S&P Global Services PMI fell to 51.3 in September from 52.5 previously, coming in below the 51.6 market consensus.

The reading remained above the 50 threshold, meaning the services sector continued to expand, but the pace of growth slowed noticeably during the month.

The weaker-than-expected result suggests some moderation in domestic service-sector momentum heading into the fourth quarter.

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European Investor 10-05-26

Tokyo Core Inflation Accelerates to 2.7% in September, Above Expectations

Tokyo core consumer inflation rose 2.7% year over year in September, accelerating sharply from 1.8% in August and exceeding the 2.4% market consensus.

The stronger reading suggests underlying inflation pressures in Japan remain firm, with price growth moving further above the Bank of Japan’s 2% target.

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WS News 10-02-26

Japan’s Tankan Manufacturing Index Improves in Q3 but Misses Expectations

Japan’s Tankan Large Manufacturers Index rose to 24 in the third quarter from 22 previously, indicating an improvement in business sentiment among the country’s major manufacturers.

The reading, however, came in slightly below the market consensus of 25.

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WS News 10-01-26

Japan Industrial Production Falls 1.7% in August, Missing Expectations

Japan’s industrial production fell 1.7% month over month in August, sharply underperforming market expectations for a 1.4% increase and worsening from a 0.2% decline in the previous month.

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WS News 09-30-26

Japan Leading Index Rises in July but Misses Expectations

Japan’s Leading Index increased 1.5% month over month in July, improving from a flat reading previously but coming in below the 1.7% market forecast.

The index level rose to 117.7 from 116.5, although it also missed expectations of 118.1.

The data suggest Japan’s forward-looking economic indicators improved during July, but not quite as strongly as economists had expected.

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WS News 09-29-26

Japan Corporate Services Prices Rise 3.7% Year Over Year

Japan’s Corporate Services Price Index rose 3.7% year over year, slightly above the 3.6% consensus estimate and up from 3.6% previously.

The stronger-than-expected reading points to persistent price pressures in Japan’s services sector, suggesting that inflation is continuing to broaden beyond goods.

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WS News 09-28-26

Japan Services PMI Slips to 51.6 in September, Signaling Slower Growth

Japan’s S&P Global Services PMI fell to 51.6 in September from 52.5 in August, indicating that activity in the services sector continued to expand but at a slower pace.

A reading above 50 still points to growth, but the decline suggests momentum softened during the month.

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WS News 09-24-26

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NASDAQ:ALAB

Astera Labs Stock Falls 5.7% After Citi and Northland Downgrades

Astera Labs shares fell about 5.7% to $327.43 after receiving two analyst downgrades.

Northland Securities downgraded the stock to Market Perform from Outperform, while Citi also moved Astera Labs to Market Perform from Buy.

The simultaneous downgrades suggest analysts are becoming more cautious on the stock’s risk-reward profile after a strong run, even as the company remains well positioned in AI infrastructure connectivity.

Probable concerns include Astera Labs’ elevated valuation, expectations already embedded in the share price, and the possibility that near-term upside becomes harder to justify without another meaningful acceleration in revenue or earnings growth.

Astera Labs benefits from demand for high-speed connectivity products used in AI servers and data-center infrastructure, but semiconductor stocks with premium multiples can be particularly sensitive when analysts believe future growth is increasingly reflected in current valuations.

The 5.7% decline suggests investors are reacting primarily to valuation and expectations rather than a fundamental deterioration in the company’s long-term AI exposure.

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Global Finance News 10-09-26

S&P 500

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Global Finance News 10-09-26

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European Investor 10-08-26

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Global Finance News 10-07-26

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The Investor 10-06-26

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WS Investor 10-05-26

U.S. Stocks Rally as Weak Jobs Report Boosts Rate-Cut Expectations

U.S. stocks moved sharply higher on Friday after September employment data showed a much weaker labor market than expected, increasing expectations that the Federal Reserve could adopt a more accommodative policy stance.

Nonfarm payrolls rose by just 29,000 in September, far below the 89,000 consensus and down sharply from 133,000 previously. Private payrolls increased by 46,000, also missing the 85,000 forecast and slowing from 89,000.

The unemployment rate climbed to 4.2% from 4.1%, while average hourly earnings growth slowed to 3.0% year over year from 3.1%, below the 3.2% consensus. Together, the figures point to cooling labor demand and easing wage pressures.

Equity markets reacted positively. The S&P 500 rose 0.80%, the Dow gained 0.52%, and the Nasdaq climbed 1.24%, with technology stocks outperforming.

The market reaction suggests investors are focusing on the prospect that weaker employment conditions could reduce pressure on the Fed to keep policy restrictive. Softer wage growth also helps ease inflation concerns, creating a particularly supportive backdrop for growth and technology shares.

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WS News 10-02-26

U.S. Stocks Trade Mixed as Strong Jobless Claims Data Clash With Hot Manufacturing Prices

U.S. stocks traded mixed on Thursday as investors weighed resilient labor-market data against renewed inflation concerns from the manufacturing sector. The S&P 500 slipped 0.11% to 7,642.86, while the Dow Jones fell 0.35%. The Nasdaq was nearly flat, edging 0.05% higher.

Initial jobless claims fell to 197,000, below the 201,000 expected and down slightly from 198,000 previously. Continuing claims also declined to 1.701 million, better than the 1.730 million consensus and 1.712 million prior reading. The figures suggest layoffs remain limited and the labor market continues to show resilience.

Manufacturing activity remained firmly in expansion territory. The ISM Manufacturing PMI came in at 54.5 in September, just below the 54.8 forecast and roughly unchanged from 54.6 previously.

The more significant surprise came from prices. The ISM Manufacturing Prices Index jumped to 77.9 from 71.1, far above expectations of 72.9. The sharp increase points to stronger input-cost pressures and could revive concerns that inflation may remain sticky.

For equities, the data create a mixed backdrop: solid employment and manufacturing activity support the economic outlook, but the sharp rise in manufacturing prices may keep Treasury yields and interest-rate expectations elevated, helping explain the more cautious performance in the broader market.

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European Investor 10-01-26

U.S. Stocks Rise as Softer PCE Inflation Offsets Stronger Growth and Jobs Data

U.S. stocks moved higher on Wednesday as investors welcomed softer-than-expected inflation readings alongside signs that the economy remains resilient. The S&P 500 rose 0.52%, the Dow Jones was nearly flat with a 0.03% gain, while the Nasdaq climbed 0.94%, leading the major indexes.

The August PCE price index rose 3.4% year over year, below the 3.7% expected, while monthly inflation came in at 0.3% versus the 0.4% consensus. Core PCE was also softer than forecast, rising 3.0% annually compared with expectations of 3.3%, while the monthly increase of 0.2% was below the 0.3% estimate.

At the same time, economic activity remained firm. Second-quarter GDP growth was revised to 2.2%, above the 1.5% consensus and the previous 2.1% estimate. ADP private payrolls increased by 90,000 in September, beating expectations of 73,000 and accelerating sharply from 36,000 previously.

Manufacturing activity provided another upside surprise, with the Chicago PMI jumping to 58.8 in September from 47.1, well above the 51.2 forecast and moving firmly into expansion territory.

The market reaction reflects a favorable combination for equities: inflation came in cooler than feared while employment, GDP and business activity remained relatively strong. The softer PCE readings appear particularly supportive for technology and other growth stocks, helping explain the Nasdaq’s outperformance despite the stronger economic data.

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WS News 09-30-26

U.S. Stocks Mixed as Consumer Confidence Slumps and Job Openings Fall

U.S. stocks were mixed on Tuesday as fresh economic data pointed to softer consumer sentiment and a cooling labor market, while technology shares showed relative resilience.

The S&P 500 was little changed at 7,682.43, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.29% to 51,334.39, and the Nasdaq rose 0.18% to 26,867.67.

The biggest negative surprise came from consumer confidence. The Conference Board’s September index fell to 81.9 from 88.6, well below the 89.2 consensus estimate. The sharp drop suggests households are becoming more cautious about the economic outlook.

Labor-market data also softened. JOLTS job openings declined to 7.079 million in August from 7.335 million and missed expectations for 7.230 million, adding to signs that demand for workers is gradually cooling.

Housing data were more mixed. The S&P/Case-Shiller 20-city home price index was flat month over month in July, down from a 0.4% increase previously, while annual home-price growth accelerated to 2.5% from 2.2%, above expectations.

For markets, the combination of weaker confidence and lower job openings may support expectations for easier Federal Reserve policy over time. However, persistent home-price inflation and broader concerns around elevated inflation are keeping the policy outlook complicated, which helps explain the uneven performance across major indexes.

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WS News 09-29-26

U.S. Stocks Fall as Oil and Treasury Yields Rise, Reviving Inflation Concerns

U.S. stocks moved lower on Monday as rising oil prices pushed inflation expectations higher and drove Treasury yields back toward multi-decade highs, increasing pressure on equity valuations.

The S&P 500 fell 0.87% to 7,675.86, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.63% to 51,503.20. The Nasdaq was the weakest of the major indexes, dropping 1.19% to 26,746.90 as higher bond yields weighed more heavily on technology and other long-duration growth stocks.

The main pressure came from energy markets. Brent crude rebounded as U.S.-Iran negotiations remained stalled and uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz continued to threaten global supply flows. Higher oil prices are particularly important for equities because they can feed into transportation, production and consumer costs, making inflation harder to contain. (Market Screener)

Bond markets reflected those concerns. The U.S. 10-year Treasury yield climbed to about 5.26%, extending a sharp rise that has already taken yields to their highest levels in nearly two decades. Higher oil prices and stronger inflation expectations have contributed to expectations that the Federal Reserve may need to keep monetary policy tighter for longer.(FXStreet)

Inflation expectations had already been moving higher before Monday’s oil rebound. The University of Michigan’s September survey showed one-year inflation expectations rising to 4.6% from 4.0% in August, while five-year expectations edged up to 3.4% from 3.3%.

Other pressures are also weighing on sentiment. Investors are approaching a busy week of U.S. economic data, including the PCE inflation report and employment figures, while markets continue to assess the possibility of additional Federal Reserve tightening. Elevated government borrowing needs and concern over the U.S. fiscal outlook are also contributing to upward pressure on longer-term yields.

For equities, the combination is uncomfortable: higher oil prices raise inflation risks, higher inflation keeps pressure on the Fed, and higher Treasury yields increase the discount rate applied to future corporate earnings. That dynamic helps explain why the Nasdaq is underperforming the broader market in Monday trading.

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The Investor 09-28-26

10-08-26European Investor

10-07-26Global Finance News

10-05-26European Investor

10-04-26The Investor

NYSE:LEVI

Levi Strauss Stock Edges Lower Premarket Despite Strong Q3 Profit Growth and Raised Outlook

Levi Strauss shares slipped about 0.2% in premarket trading despite reporting stronger third-quarter profitability and raising its full-year 2026 margin and EPS outlook.

Q3 net revenue rose 4% to $1.6 billion, while organic revenue increased 5%. Wholesale was a key bright spot, with revenue up 6%, while Asia grew 10% organically and Europe increased 5%.

Profitability improved sharply. Gross margin expanded to 66.2% from 61.7%, operating margin rose to 13.8% from 10.8%, and adjusted EBIT margin increased to 15.5% from 11.8%. Adjusted EPS climbed to $0.48 from $0.34.

The main weakness was direct-to-consumer performance. DTC revenue increased just 2%, comparable sales were flat, and U.S. DTC revenue declined 1%. Management acknowledged that DTC results fell short of internal expectations, although it expects the business to return to mid-single-digit growth in the fourth quarter.

Investors may also be discounting part of the margin improvement because tariff refunds provided a significant boost. The net benefit added roughly 370 basis points to gross margin and $0.11 to EPS after reinvestment.

The muted premarket reaction suggests the market is balancing stronger earnings, higher guidance and a planned $100 million accelerated share repurchase against softer U.S. and DTC trends and the temporary nature of the tariff-related profit benefit.

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The Investor 10-08-26

Levi Strauss & Co. reported solid fourth-quarter and full-year fiscal 2025 results, driven by continued momentum in its direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategy and global brand strength. Fourth-quarter net revenues rose 1% on a reported basis and 5% organically to $1.8 billion, with high-single-digit comparable growth in DTC and strong performance across Europe and Asia.

For the full year, Levi Strauss delivered accelerated revenue growth and margin expansion, reflecting its shift toward a DTC-first, head-to-toe denim lifestyle brand. Continuing operations diluted EPS was $0.40 in the fourth quarter, with adjusted diluted EPS of $0.41. Management highlighted sustained organic growth, improved adjusted EBIT margins for the third consecutive year, and announced a new $200 million accelerated share repurchase program.

Looking ahead, the company forecast mid-single-digit revenue growth in fiscal 2026 alongside further expansion in adjusted EBIT margins, signaling confidence in its strategy and long-term profitability trajectory.

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The Investor 01-29-26

Levi Strauss & Co. Reports Strong Q3 2025 Results, Raises Full-Year Outlook

Levi Strauss & Co. (NYSE: LEVI) posted strong third-quarter 2025 results, exceeding guidance across sales, margins, and earnings. Net revenues rose 7% year-over-year to $1.5 billion, both on a reported and organic basis, reflecting balanced growth across regions and channels. Diluted EPS from continuing operations was $0.31, while adjusted diluted EPS reached $0.34.

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) revenue climbed 11% and now represents 46% of total sales, driven by double-digit growth in Asia and strong e-commerce momentum, where sales rose 18%. Wholesale revenue increased 3%. Regionally, the Americas grew 6%, Europe 5%, and Asia 12%.

Gross margin improved 110 basis points to 61.7%, aided by pricing and channel mix, partially offset by tariffs. Operating income rose to $308 million with a 10.8% margin, compared with 2.3% last year. Net income jumped to $122 million from $23 million a year earlier.

Citing sustained momentum and robust DTC performance, Levi’s raised its full-year 2025 revenue and EPS guidance, reaffirming confidence in its strategic shift toward a DTC-first, head-to-toe denim lifestyle model.

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European Investor 10-09-25

Three Brand Name Companies Outside Of Tech That Are On The Move

Last week’s push to new highs in the market continued...

(articles.stockcharts.com)

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Global Finance News 10-04-25

Levi Strauss & Co. Prices Euro-Denominated Senior Notes Due 2030

Levi Strauss & Co. (NYSE: LEVI) announced the pricing of its euro-denominated senior notes due 2030 in a private placement offering. This follows the company's initial announcement on July 14, 2025, about launching the debt offering.

The offering is part of Levi’s ongoing capital strategy and was not registered under the U.S. Securities Act, making it available only to qualified institutional buyers and investors outside the U.S. under Regulation S.

Further details on the principal amount, coupon rate, and use of proceeds were included in accompanying press releases filed as exhibits (99.1 and 99.2) to the Form 8-K.

The move supports Levi’s financial flexibility as it continues to execute on long-term strategic initiatives.

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Global Finance News 07-16-25

Levi Strauss to Sell Dockers® Brand to Authentic Brands Group for Up to $391 Million

Levi Strauss & Co. (NYSE: LEVI) announced a definitive agreement to sell its Dockers® brand to Authentic Brands Group for an initial $311 million, with a potential $80 million earnout tied to future performance. The deal is part of Levi’s strategic shift to focus on its core Levi’s® and Beyond Yoga® brands and its direct-to-consumer business.

CEO Michelle Gass emphasized the move aligns with Levi’s goal to prioritize denim, women's fashion, and global growth. Levi plans to return $100 million of the proceeds to shareholders via share repurchases. The sale of Dockers® in the U.S. and Canada is expected to close by July 31, 2025, with global operations completing around January 31, 2026.

Authentic’s CEO Jamie Salter called Dockers® a strong fit for its brand portfolio and aims to expand its reach. LS&Co. will support the transition through limited services post-close.

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WS Investor 05-21-25

Levi Strauss & Co. Posts Strong Q1 2025 Earnings, Raises Profitability Despite Uncertain Market

SAN FRANCISCO – April 7, 2025 – Levi Strauss & Co. (NYSE: LEVI) exceeded market expectations for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, reporting solid revenue growth and a significant boost in profitability, according to results announced today. The company posted net revenues of $1.53 billion, up 3% year-over-year on a reported basis and 9% on an organic basis, with particularly strong growth in the Levi’s® and Beyond Yoga® brands.

Key Financial Highlights (Continuing Operations):

Adjusted EBIT margin rose 400 basis points to 13.4%, driven by improved gross margins and disciplined cost management.

Adjusted diluted EPS climbed to $0.38, marking a 52% increase year-over-year.

Operating margin reached 12.5%, compared to just 0.04% a year prior.

Net income from continuing operations surged to $140 million, up from a $10 million loss in Q1 2024.

CEO Michelle Gass attributed the performance to “the strength of the Levi’s® brand and successful execution of our transformation strategy,” while CFO Harmit Singh noted ongoing momentum into March and maintained the company’s full-year guidance despite recently announced tariffs.

Regional Performance:

Americas: Revenues grew 11% organically, with the U.S. up 8%.

Europe: Organic growth of 3%, despite a 5% reported decline.

Asia: Revenues jumped 10% organically, 7% reported.

Direct-to-Consumer (DTC): Up 12% organically, now comprising 52% of total revenues.

Wholesale: Declined 3% reported, but grew 5% on an organic basis.

Dockers® Discontinued
The Dockers® business was reclassified as discontinued operations in Q1, with plans to divest by year-end. Results from prior quarters were recast accordingly.

Balance Sheet & Shareholder Returns:

Cash & equivalents stood at $574 million; liquidity near $1.4 billion.

Returned $81 million to shareholders in Q1 via dividends and buybacks.

Declared a $0.13 per share dividend payable May 9, 2025.

FY 2025 Guidance (Excludes Tariff Impact):

Organic revenue growth: 3.5% to 4.5%.

Adjusted EBIT margin: 11.4% to 11.6%.

Adjusted EPS: $1.20 to $1.25.

Despite macro uncertainties including tariffs, FX headwinds, and inflation, Levi Strauss remains confident in its global strategy, citing robust DTC expansion, cost discipline, and brand equity.

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ME NEWS 04-08-25

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