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NASDAQ:META

Meta Stock Falls 9% Premarket Despite Strong Revenue Growth as Profit Margins Shrink on AI Spending

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META) shares dropped 9% in premarket trading on Thursday after the social media giant reported second-quarter results that highlighted the growing cost of its aggressive artificial intelligence investments, overshadowing another quarter of strong revenue growth.

Revenue increased 28% year-over-year to $60.8 billion, driven by continued strength in digital advertising. Ad impressions rose 14%, while the average price per ad increased 12%. Family Daily Active People (DAP) reached 3.60 billion, up 3% from a year earlier, demonstrating continued user engagement across Meta's platforms.

## AI Investment Weighs on Profitability

Despite the robust top-line growth, investors focused on a sharp deterioration in profitability. Total costs and expenses surged 55% to $42.0 billion, reflecting massive AI infrastructure investments, $2.4 billion in legal-related charges and $1.18 billion in severance costs following the company's May workforce reduction.

As a result, operating income declined 8% to $18.8 billion, while operating margin contracted to 31% from 43% a year ago. Net income fell 14% to $15.8 billion, and diluted earnings per share decreased 13% to $6.18.

Meta also spent $31.1 billion on capital expenditures during the quarter and narrowed its full-year capital expenditure guidance to $130-145 billion, reinforcing expectations that AI infrastructure spending will remain elevated.

## Guidance Offers Limited Relief

For the third quarter, Meta expects revenue between $61 billion and $64 billion, while raising the lower end of its full-year expense guidance to $165-169 billion. The company maintained its expectation that full-year operating income will exceed 2025 levels, but investors appeared more concerned about the pace of spending than the revenue outlook.

## What to Watch

The sharp premarket decline suggests investors are becoming increasingly sensitive to profitability as large technology companies continue investing heavily in AI. Going forward, the market will closely monitor whether Meta can translate its record AI spending into stronger earnings growth while preserving operating margins.

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European Investor 07-30-26

Meta Beats Q1 Estimates, But Surging AI Capex Spooks Investors

Meta Platforms delivered a strong Q1 2026, yet shares slid after hours as Wall Street fixated on a massive spending hike.

Revenue climbed 33% year-over-year to $56.31 billion — the fastest growth since 2021 — beating estimates of $55.45 billion. Adjusted EPS came in at $7.31, topping the $6.79 consensus. Ad impressions jumped 19% year-over-year, while average price per ad rose 12%.

The trouble? AI spending. Meta raised its full-year 2026 capex guidance to $125–$145 billion, up from $115–$135 billion, citing higher component pricing and additional data center costs — and that single line item drove a ~6% after-hours decline.

META shares were trading at $613.00 in pre-market, down 8.39%.

Zuckerberg's AI investments have yet to produce new revenue streams but have strengthened the core advertising business. For now, markets want proof the bet will pay off (CNBC).

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WS Investor 04-30-26

Meta Posts 33% Revenue Growth in Q1 2026, Hits $56.3 Billion

Meta Platforms reported first-quarter revenues of $56.3 billion, up 33% year over year, with operating income rising 30% to $22.9 billion at a 41% margin. Net income surged 61% to $26.8 billion, though results were boosted by an $8 billion one-time tax benefit. Daily active users across Meta's family of apps averaged 3.56 billion in March, up 4% from a year ago. Ad impressions grew 19% and average ad prices rose 12%. Capital expenditures reached $19.8 billion for the quarter, with full-year capex guidance raised to $125-145 billion, reflecting higher component costs and expanded data center investment. For Q2, Meta guided revenues of $58-61 billion.

Source: Meta Platforms, Inc. Press Release, April 29, 2026

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Global Finance News 04-29-26

Meta has signed a major agreement with Amazon Web Services to deploy AWS Graviton processors at scale, supporting its next-generation AI infrastructure. The rollout will begin with tens of millions of Graviton cores, with capacity expected to expand as demand grows.

The partnership reflects increasing demand for CPU-intensive workloads driven by “agentic AI,” including real-time reasoning, code generation, and multi-step task orchestration. While GPUs remain key for training models, Graviton chips are positioned to handle large-scale operational AI processes more efficiently.

The deal strengthens Meta’s long-standing relationship with AWS and supports its broader AI strategy, leveraging Amazon’s cloud infrastructure and services to manage billions of AI-driven interactions.
Business Wire

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The Investor 04-26-26

Get Smart: Is It Too Late to Invest in US Stocks?

It’s never about getting the perfect price. It’s about getting the business right — and staying invested long enough for it to matter.

(thesmartinvestor.com.sg)

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European Investor 04-23-26

Meta Platforms, Inc. and CBRE Group, Inc. announced the launch of “LevelUp,” a multi-year workforce development program aimed at training thousands of technicians to support data center construction across the United States.

Under the initiative, CBRE will establish training centers nationwide, beginning in summer 2026, to prepare workers in installing fiber-optic cables, network infrastructure, and other mission-critical equipment. Graduates will have opportunities to work on Meta’s data center projects through its contractor network.

The program targets the growing shortage of skilled fiber technicians, while creating new career pathways for high school graduates and individuals seeking to enter the skilled trades. It is designed to provide broadly applicable technical skills relevant across the data center and construction industries.

Meta highlighted that the initiative supports its expanding infrastructure footprint, with 27 data centers currently operational or under construction in the U.S., and reinforces its broader investment in workforce development tied to AI-driven infrastructure growth.
Business Wire

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Global Finance News 04-20-26

Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: META) announced that the company's first quarter 2026 financial results will be released after market close on Wednesday, April 29th, 2026.

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WS Investor 04-14-26

Corning and Meta Platforms announced the start of construction on a major optical cable manufacturing expansion in North Carolina to support growing demand for AI data center infrastructure.

The project is part of a multiyear agreement valued at up to $6 billion, under which Corning will supply advanced optical fiber and connectivity solutions for Meta’s data centers. Meta will serve as the anchor customer for the new facility, which is expected to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities and supply chains.

The expansion is also set to boost employment in the region, potentially increasing Corning’s workforce in North Carolina by up to 20%. Both companies highlighted the importance of high-performance connectivity in scaling AI infrastructure and maintaining U.S. leadership in advanced technologies.

The initiative underscores accelerating investment in data center capacity as demand for AI computing continues to grow.
Business Wire

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WS Investor 04-01-26

Meta announces 4 new AI chips, raising competitive stakes with Nvidia, AMD

Meta has debuted four new AI chips. increasing competition with Nvidia and AMD.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS News 03-11-26

Is Meta Still a Buy at Current Valuation?

Explore whether Meta still represents a buy at current valuation after significant investment in artificial intelligence.

(thesmartinvestor.com.sg)

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WS Investor 03-09-26

07-30-26European Investor

07-29-26The Investor

US

Nasdaq Leads U.S. Markets Higher as Tech Earnings Fuel Rally

U.S. stocks traded broadly higher on Thursday, with the Nasdaq outperforming after another wave of stronger-than-expected corporate earnings reinforced optimism around artificial intelligence, cloud computing and technology spending.

At the time of writing, the Nasdaq was up 1.95%, while the S&P 500 gained 0.78% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 0.23%.

Technology stocks were the primary drivers of the rally, as investors continued to rotate into AI-related names following another round of upbeat quarterly results. Strong earnings from companies including Microsoft, Lam Research, Trane Technologies, Regeneron and Yum! Brands helped support broader market sentiment, while several companies also raised their full-year guidance, reinforcing confidence in corporate earnings despite ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty.

Industrial and infrastructure-related companies also attracted buying interest. Trane Technologies surged after reporting record bookings and raising its annual outlook, while Air Products advanced after exceeding adjusted earnings expectations and increasing its full-year EPS guidance despite large one-time restructuring charges.

Healthcare was another area of strength, with Regeneron posting double-digit revenue growth driven by Dupixent, EYLEA HD and Libtayo. Meanwhile, Enterprise Products Partners edged higher after reporting record earnings and cash flow supported by strong pipeline and terminal volumes.

Not all earnings reactions were positive. Investors sold shares of several defensive healthcare and consumer companies despite solid quarterly results. Bristol Myers Squibb, Sanofi and Altria all declined after reporting earnings, suggesting investors remain selective and continue to focus on long-term growth prospects rather than headline beats alone.

Attention now turns to the remainder of the earnings season and upcoming economic data, with investors watching whether the current momentum in AI, industrial spending and corporate profitability can continue supporting U.S. equities near record highs.

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WS Investor 07-30-26

US Jobless Claims Fall Unexpectedly, Signaling Continued Labor Market Strength

The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits fell more than expected last week, highlighting the continued resilience of the U.S. labor market despite signs of slowing economic growth.

Initial jobless claims declined to 197,000, beating market expectations of 201,000 and improving from the previous week's revised reading of 188,000. The lower-than-expected figure suggests layoffs remain historically low and employers continue to retain workers.

Labor Market Remains Resilient

Continuing jobless claims, which measure the number of people receiving ongoing unemployment benefits, also came in stronger than expected. Claims fell to 1.782 million, below the consensus estimate of 1.800 million and down from 1.789 million previously.

The data indicate that unemployed workers are continuing to find new jobs relatively quickly, reinforcing the view that the labor market remains fundamentally healthy.

Mixed Picture for the Federal Reserve

The stronger labor market data follows weaker-than-expected second-quarter GDP growth and softer June PCE inflation figures released earlier in the day. Together, the reports present a mixed picture for the Federal Reserve, with easing inflation supporting the case for future policy easing while labor market resilience argues against an urgent need for rate cuts.

What to Watch

Investors will now focus on upcoming nonfarm payrolls, unemployment and wage growth data to determine whether labor market strength can be sustained. Continued resilience in employment alongside moderating inflation would support the prospect of a gradual easing cycle by the Federal Reserve rather than an aggressive series of interest rate cuts.

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WS Investor 07-30-26

US Economy Slows in Second Quarter as Inflation Cools

The U.S. economy grew at a slower pace than expected in the second quarter, while inflation continued to ease, reinforcing signs that economic growth is moderating even as price pressures gradually decline.

Gross domestic product expanded at an annualized rate of 1.5% in the second quarter, below both the 2.1% market expectation and the 2.1% growth recorded in the first quarter. The weaker reading points to slower economic momentum amid a still-restrictive interest rate environment.

Inflation Continues to Moderate

The Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge also showed further improvement. The headline PCE Price Index fell 0.1% month-over-month in June, matching expectations and reversing the 0.5% increase recorded in May. On an annual basis, PCE inflation slowed to 3.7%, in line with forecasts and down from 4.1% previously.

The softer inflation data suggest price pressures continue to ease, although inflation remains above the Federal Reserve's long-term target.

Markets Focus on Fed Outlook

The combination of slower economic growth and cooling inflation may strengthen expectations that the Federal Reserve will have greater room to ease monetary policy if inflation continues trending lower. However, policymakers are likely to seek additional evidence that inflation is moving sustainably toward target before making significant policy adjustments.

What to Watch

Investors will now turn their attention to upcoming labor market and inflation reports for further confirmation of the economy's trajectory. Whether inflation continues to cool without a sharper slowdown in economic activity will remain the key factor shaping expectations for future Federal Reserve interest rate decisions.

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WS Investor 07-30-26

Fed Holds Interest Rates Steady at 3.75% as Markets Await Warsh’s Guidance

The U.S. Federal Reserve left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 3.75% on Wednesday, matching market expectations and marking another meeting in which policymakers opted to keep monetary policy steady.

The decision was anticipated, with economists widely expecting the federal funds rate to remain at 3.75%, unchanged from the previous meeting. As a result, investors are now shifting their attention away from the decision itself and toward the Federal Reserve’s policy statement and Fed Chair Kevin Warsh’s remarks for clues about the future path of interest rates.

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WS News 07-29-26

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that crude oil inventories fell by 7.17 million barrels last week, far exceeding market expectations for a 700,000-barrel decline. The previous week's report had shown a build of 2.01 million barrels.

Meanwhile, inventories at the Cushing, Oklahoma delivery hub also declined by 771,000 barrels, following a 674,000-barrel draw in the previous week. Cushing is the primary delivery point for WTI crude futures, and falling inventories there are typically viewed as supportive for oil prices.

The larger-than-expected nationwide inventory draw suggests refinery activity and end-user demand remain resilient despite concerns about global economic growth. The continued decline at Cushing also indicates tightening physical crude supplies in a key U.S. storage hub.

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The Investor 07-29-26

US Consumer Confidence Falls in July as GDPNow Estimate Edges Lower

U.S. markets digested two softer-than-expected economic updates on Tuesday, with consumer confidence declining more than forecast and the Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow model trimming its estimate for second-quarter economic growth.

The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index fell to 90.8 in July, below both the market expectation of 92.4 and June’s reading of 92.2. The weaker-than-expected reading suggests households became more cautious about the economic outlook, as concerns over inflation, labor market conditions, and broader economic uncertainty continued to weigh on sentiment.

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow model lowered its estimate for second-quarter U.S. GDP growth to 1.5%, down from 1.6% previously and slightly below economists’ expectations. While the revision was modest, it points to a somewhat softer pace of economic expansion heading into the second half of the year.

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WS News 07-28-26

US Markets Mixed on Tuesday as Dow Climbs While Tech Stocks Weigh on Nasdaq

U.S. stocks traded mixed on Tuesday, with investors rotating away from technology shares while buying more defensive and cyclical names. The Dow Jones Industrial Average outperformed the broader market, gaining 0.68%, while the S&P 500 slipped 0.20%. The Nasdaq Composite lagged, falling 1.05% as weakness in large-cap technology stocks pressured the index.

The divergence between the major indexes suggests investors are becoming more selective following the strong rally in AI and semiconductor stocks over recent months. Profit-taking in technology names weighed on the Nasdaq, while strength in industrial, financial, healthcare, and other value-oriented sectors helped lift the Dow into positive territory.

Technology remained the primary drag on the broader market, with investors trimming exposure ahead of another busy stretch of corporate earnings. Several AI-related and semiconductor companies have reported strong results, but elevated valuations continue to leave little room for disappointment, leading to increased volatility across the sector.

Meanwhile, the Dow’s advance reflected continued interest in companies with more stable earnings profiles. Investors appeared willing to rotate into sectors viewed as less sensitive to lofty growth expectations while still maintaining exposure to the broader U.S. economy.

The mixed session also comes as markets continue to digest the latest earnings releases and assess the outlook for corporate profits through the remainder of 2026. With many companies either raising or reaffirming guidance, stock-specific reactions have become a more important driver than broader macroeconomic themes.

Looking ahead, investors will remain focused on upcoming earnings reports from major technology companies, additional economic data, and any signals that could influence expectations for Federal Reserve policy. Whether the recent rotation away from high-growth technology stocks continues will likely determine the near-term direction of both the Nasdaq and the broader market.

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WS News 07-28-26

US Home Prices Continue to Rise in May as Annual Growth Tops Expectations

U.S. home prices continued to climb in May, with the latest S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller data showing the housing market remains resilient despite elevated mortgage rates.

The S&P/Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index rose 0.9% month over month in May, slightly below April’s 1.0% increase, indicating home price appreciation remained steady on a monthly basis.

On an annual basis, home prices increased 1.6%, beating economists’ expectations of 1.3% and accelerating from 1.2% in the previous reading. The stronger-than-expected year-over-year gain suggests housing demand continues to outpace available supply in many major metropolitan areas.

The data indicates that limited inventory and resilient buyer demand are continuing to support home prices even as higher borrowing costs have weighed on affordability. While monthly price growth eased marginally, the acceleration in annual growth points to a housing market that remains fundamentally firm.

For financial markets, the report is modestly supportive of the U.S. economy but may reinforce expectations that shelter inflation could remain persistent. A resilient housing market is generally viewed as a sign of underlying consumer strength, although continued home price gains could complicate the Federal Reserve’s efforts to bring inflation sustainably back to its target.

Investors will now turn their attention to upcoming labor market and inflation data, which are expected to play a larger role in shaping expectations for future Fed policy.

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WS News 07-28-26

U.S. Treasury Auction Yields Rise Ahead of Fed Decision as Investors Demand Higher Returns

U.S. Treasury yields moved higher on Monday after the Treasury’s latest debt auctions cleared at higher yields than the previous sales, reflecting investor caution ahead of this week’s Federal Reserve meeting and a busy slate of economic data.

The U.S. Treasury’s $69 billion 2-year note auction stopped at a high yield of 4.315%, up from 4.189% at the previous auction. Later in the day, the $70 billion 5-year note auction also cleared at a higher yield of 4.408%, compared with 4.200% previously.

The higher stop-out yields suggest investors demanded greater compensation to hold U.S. government debt, a sign that bond markets remain cautious about the outlook for interest rates and inflation. Treasury auctions are closely watched because they provide insight into investor demand for government securities and can influence borrowing costs across financial markets.

The auctions came just hours after softer-than-expected U.S. durable goods orders data, which pointed to moderating business investment but did little to change expectations that the Federal Reserve will leave interest rates unchanged at this week’s policy meeting.

Higher Treasury yields can weigh on equity valuations, particularly in growth sectors such as technology, by increasing discount rates used to value future earnings.

With the Federal Reserve’s policy announcement, key inflation data, and earnings from several mega-cap technology companies all due later this week, investors are likely to remain focused on the bond market for further signals about the direction of monetary policy and the broader U.S. economy.

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WS News 07-28-26

US Durable Goods Orders Miss Expectations as Business Investment Momentum Softens

U.S. markets received a mixed set of economic data on Monday, with June durable goods orders and core durable goods orders both coming in below economists’ expectations, while the Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow estimate was revised slightly lower.

Headline durable goods orders increased 0.3% month over month in June, missing the consensus forecast of 1.6%. Although the reading returned to positive territory following May’s 4.0% decline, the rebound was weaker than investors had anticipated, suggesting demand for long-lasting manufactured goods remains uneven.

Core durable goods orders, which exclude the volatile transportation sector and are viewed as a key indicator of business investment, rose 0.6% in June. The figure also fell short of the 0.9% consensus estimate and slowed significantly from the previous month’s 1.8% increase, pointing to more moderate capital spending by businesses.

Adding to the cautious tone, the Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow model lowered its estimate for second-quarter U.S. economic growth to 1.6% from 1.7%, indicating a modest slowdown in the pace of economic expansion.

The softer-than-expected data reinforced expectations that U.S. economic growth is gradually moderating rather than contracting sharply. While weaker business investment could support the case for future Federal Reserve rate cuts, the reports were not weak enough to significantly alter market expectations ahead of this week’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

For investors, the data paints a picture of an economy that continues to expand but at a more measured pace. Markets are now likely to shift their focus to the Federal Reserve’s policy decision, upcoming inflation data, and a busy slate of corporate earnings for further clues on the direction of interest rates and economic growth.

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WS News 07-27-26

07-30-26European Investor

07-29-26WS News

07-28-26WS News

07-24-26WS News

NASDAQ:MSFT

Microsoft Stock Jumps 8.3% as Azure and AI Growth Power Strong Q4 Earnings

Microsoft shares surged 8.3% in premarket trading on Thursday after the company reported stronger-than-expected fiscal fourth-quarter results, driven by accelerating Azure growth and continued demand for artificial intelligence products.

Revenue rose 18% year-over-year to $90.0 billion, while operating income increased 18% to $40.6 billion. GAAP net income climbed 31% to $35.8 billion, and diluted earnings per share increased 32% to $4.81. On a non-GAAP basis, Microsoft earned $4.74 per share, up 23%.

## Azure Growth Accelerates

The strongest part of the report came from Microsoft’s cloud operations. Microsoft Cloud revenue increased 27% to $59.3 billion, while Intelligent Cloud revenue rose 32% to $39.3 billion.

Azure and other cloud services revenue jumped 43%, highlighting continued demand for cloud infrastructure and AI computing capacity. Microsoft also said annual Azure revenue surpassed $100 billion for the first time.

Commercial remaining performance obligations surged 84% to $678 billion, providing investors with greater visibility into future contracted revenue.

AI adoption also continued to expand. Microsoft 365 Copilot reached more than 30 million paid seats, strengthening the company’s position as one of the leading beneficiaries of enterprise AI spending.

## Consumer and Gaming Businesses Remain Weak

Growth was less consistent across Microsoft’s consumer businesses. More Personal Computing revenue declined 4% to $12.9 billion, as Windows OEM and Devices revenue fell 7% and Xbox content and services revenue dropped 10%.

However, investors largely overlooked those declines as the performance of Azure, Microsoft Cloud and AI-related products reinforced confidence in the company’s long-term growth outlook.

Microsoft returned $10.2 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases during the quarter.

## What to Watch

The sharp premarket gain reflects strong investor confidence in Microsoft’s ability to convert heavy AI investment into revenue growth. Attention will now turn to management’s fiscal 2027 guidance, capital expenditure plans and comments on whether Azure growth can remain above 40% as demand for AI infrastructure continues to rise.

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European Investor 07-30-26

Microsoft Receives Fresh Wall Street Support as Analysts Reaffirm Bullish Ratings

Microsoft (MSFT) received another vote of confidence from Wall Street as both Cantor Fitzgerald and TD Cowen reiterated positive ratings on the stock, maintaining Overweight and Buy recommendations, respectively.

The analyst updates come despite Microsoft's shares trading roughly 15% below their highs reached last year. With price targets of $502 and $540, both firms continue to see substantial upside from the current share price near $427, reflecting confidence in the company's long-term growth trajectory.

Analysts remain particularly optimistic about Microsoft's leadership in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and enterprise software. The company continues to benefit from strong demand for Azure cloud services, expanding adoption of AI-powered Copilot products, and its strategic partnership with OpenAI.

While some technology stocks have recently faced profit-taking pressure, Microsoft's diversified business model and strong cash generation continue to make it one of Wall Street's favorite large-cap technology names. The reaffirmed ratings suggest analysts believe the recent pullback from previous highs has not altered the company's long-term investment case.

With AI investment continuing to accelerate across industries, analysts expect Microsoft to remain one of the primary beneficiaries of the ongoing digital transformation and artificial intelligence spending cycle. The latest rating reiterations reinforce the view that Wall Street remains highly confident in Microsoft's ability to deliver sustained earnings growth in the years ahead.

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WS Investor 06-04-26

Microsoft Reports 17% Revenue Growth in Fiscal Q2 2026, Cloud Tops $50 Billion

Microsoft posted revenues of $81.3 billion for its fiscal second quarter ended December 31, 2025, up 17% year over year. Operating income rose 21% to $38.3 billion, while GAAP net income jumped 60% to $38.5 billion, partly reflecting gains from its OpenAI investment. On a non-GAAP basis, net income grew 23% to $30.9 billion. Diluted EPS came in at $5.16 on a GAAP basis. Microsoft Cloud revenue crossed $50 billion for the quarter, underscoring strong demand across the company's portfolio. CEO Satya Nadella noted that Microsoft's AI business has already grown larger than some of its most established franchises.

Source: Microsoft Corp. Earnings Release, January 28, 2026

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Global Finance News 04-29-26

Microsoft Corp. on Tuesday announced that its board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.91 per share. The dividend is payable June 11, 2026, to shareholders of record on May 21, 2026.

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The Investor 03-11-26

Tech stocks today: Nvidia stock rises as guidance signals AI boom alive and well

All eyes are on Nvidia's fourth quarter results, due after the closing bell on Wednesday, as AI concerns continue to grip markets.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS News 02-26-26

CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) have expanded their strategic alliance to make the CrowdStrike Falcon platform available on Microsoft Marketplace, allowing customers to purchase it using their existing Microsoft Azure Consumption Commitment funds.

The move enables organizations to apply pre-committed Azure cloud spending toward Falcon’s AI-native cybersecurity platform, simplifying procurement, consolidating billing, and accelerating deployment across endpoints, cloud workloads, identity, AI, and data environments.

By aligning security purchases with cloud budgets, the partnership reduces procurement friction and helps customers optimize cloud spend while strengthening security posture. Industry analysts note that transacting Falcon through Azure Marketplace can accelerate deal velocity and streamline the path from agreement to deployment.

The Falcon platform is immediately available via Microsoft Marketplace with full Azure Consumption Commitment eligibility.

Source: Business Wire

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Global Finance News 02-18-26

Azure vs AWS vs Google Cloud: Who Wins the AI Race in 2026?

Uncover insights on Azure vs AWS vs Google Cloud: Who Wins the AI Race in 2026? Discover the leaders in AI technology.

(thesmartinvestor.com.sg)

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European Investor 02-12-26

AI Boom or Bust? Here are 4 Telltale Signs

Is it AI Boom or Bust? Uncover the 4 telltale signs that differentiate real AI success from mere marketing speak.

(thesmartinvestor.com.sg)

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The Investor 02-08-26

Microsoft Q2 2026: Steady operational performance amid high AI investment

Microsoft declined by 10.0% following the release of its Q2 2026 results, as Azure’s growth rate did not align with market expectations.

(fifthperson.com)

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The Investor 02-08-26

Microsoft reported strong second-quarter fiscal 2026 results, driven by accelerating demand for Cloud and AI services across its portfolio. Revenue rose 17% year over year to $81.3 billion, while operating income increased 21% to $38.3 billion, reflecting solid operating leverage. On a GAAP basis, net income surged 60% to $38.5 billion, supported in part by investment-related impacts, while non-GAAP net income climbed 23% to $30.9 billion. Diluted EPS reached $5.16 on a GAAP basis and $4.14 on a non-GAAP basis, both showing robust year-over-year growth.

Cloud performance remained the core growth engine. Microsoft Cloud revenue surpassed $50 billion for the quarter, rising 26% year over year, underscoring strong enterprise and consumer adoption. The Intelligent Cloud segment posted revenue of $32.9 billion, up 29%, with Azure and other cloud services growing 39%, highlighting continued momentum in AI-driven workloads. Productivity and Business Processes revenue increased 16% to $34.1 billion, led by double-digit growth in Microsoft 365 Commercial and Consumer cloud offerings, LinkedIn, and Dynamics 365. More Personal Computing revenue declined slightly to $14.3 billion, reflecting softer Xbox content and services, partially offset by steady Windows OEM and growth in search and news advertising.

CEO Satya Nadella said Microsoft is still in the early stages of AI diffusion, noting that the company has already built an AI business larger than some of its traditional franchises. CFO Amy Hood highlighted that the company exceeded expectations across revenue, operating income, and earnings per share, while returning $12.7 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases during the quarter. Microsoft indicated that forward-looking guidance will be provided during its earnings conference call, as it continues to invest heavily across its AI stack to drive long-term growth.

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Global Finance News 01-29-26

07-30-26European Investor

07-29-26The Investor

07-28-26WS News

NASDAQ:LRCX

Lam Research Stock Rises 8% Premarket as Record Results and Strong AI Demand Lift Outlook

Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX) shares climbed 8% in premarket trading on Thursday after the semiconductor equipment maker reported record quarterly revenue and earnings while issuing stronger-than-expected guidance, underscoring continued momentum from AI-driven chip manufacturing investments.

Revenue reached a record $6.72 billion in the June quarter, up 15% sequentially, while GAAP diluted earnings per share increased 25% to $1.81. Profitability also improved significantly, with gross margin expanding to 51.7% and operating margin rising to 37.4%. On a non-GAAP basis, EPS came in at $1.82.

AI Boom Continues to Drive Semiconductor Equipment Demand

The company's results highlight the ongoing strength in wafer fabrication equipment demand as semiconductor manufacturers continue expanding capacity to support artificial intelligence workloads.

Systems revenue rose to $4.25 billion, while customer support and services revenue increased to $2.47 billion. Taiwan, China and South Korea accounted for nearly three-quarters of total revenue, reflecting continued investment by leading global chipmakers.

CEO Tim Archer said Lam delivered record revenue, operating margin and earnings per share as AI-driven demand continues to reshape the semiconductor industry, positioning the company for a third consecutive year of outperformance.

Strong Guidance Reinforces Bullish Outlook

Investor sentiment was further boosted by Lam's outlook for the September quarter. The company expects revenue of approximately $8.1 billion, plus or minus $400 million, with gross margin around 52% and diluted EPS of $2.15, all pointing to another quarter of robust growth.

The results also reinforce the positive earnings trend across the semiconductor industry this week, following strong reports from Microsoft and other AI-related companies, suggesting that enterprise AI spending continues to drive demand throughout the semiconductor supply chain.

What to Watch

Investors will now focus on whether AI-related capital spending remains strong enough to sustain elevated demand for wafer fabrication equipment through 2027. Continued investment by hyperscalers and leading foundries, particularly in advanced logic and memory manufacturing, remains a key catalyst for Lam Research and the broader semiconductor equipment sector.

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European Investor 07-30-26

Lam Research Stock Surges 7.5% Premarket as Mizuho Raises Price Target to $400

Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX) shares surged 7.5% in premarket trading on Thursday after Mizuho raised its price target on the semiconductor equipment maker to $400 from $380 while maintaining its *Outperform* rating, reflecting growing confidence in the company's AI-driven growth outlook.

Why Is Lam Research Stock Rising Today?

The latest analyst action reinforces Wall Street's bullish view on Lam Research as demand for advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment continues to accelerate.

Mizuho increased its price target by more than 5% to $400 while reiterating its *Outperform* rating, signaling expectations for continued earnings growth as chipmakers expand capacity to support artificial intelligence, high-bandwidth memory (HBM), and advanced logic production.

AI and Memory Investments Continue to Drive Growth

Lam Research remains one of the leading suppliers of wafer fabrication equipment used in etch and deposition processes, making the company a key beneficiary of rising global semiconductor capital expenditures.

Demand has been supported by continued investments from major foundries and memory manufacturers as AI infrastructure spending fuels the need for advanced chips, HBM, and next-generation semiconductor technologies.

The broader semiconductor sector has also strengthened as investors remain optimistic that AI-related spending will continue supporting equipment suppliers through 2026.

What Investors Are Watching Next

Investors will closely monitor upcoming earnings and capital spending plans from leading semiconductor manufacturers for additional signs of sustained equipment demand. Further growth in AI infrastructure investment and memory production could provide additional catalysts for Lam Research shares.

The higher price target from Mizuho, combined with continued optimism surrounding AI-driven semiconductor spending, appears to be fueling Thursday's strong premarket rally in Lam Research stock.

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The Investor 07-09-26

Lam Research Stock Rises After Cantor Fitzgerald Lifts Price Target to $500

Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX) shares gained nearly 6.5% on Monday after Wall Street analysts reaffirmed their bullish outlook on the semiconductor equipment maker, highlighting continued momentum from AI-driven chip manufacturing investment.

Cantor Fitzgerald maintained its Overweight rating on Lam Research and raised its price target to $500 from $425, reflecting increased confidence in the company's long-term growth prospects. Stifel also reiterated its positive view with a $500 price target, reinforcing optimism surrounding the stock.

The upbeat analyst actions come as demand for wafer fabrication equipment remains supported by rising investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure, advanced logic chips, and high-bandwidth memory. Lam Research is viewed as one of the key beneficiaries of this spending cycle due to its leadership in etch and deposition technologies used in advanced semiconductor manufacturing.

The stock's gains also coincided with a broader rally in semiconductor shares, as easing geopolitical tensions and renewed risk appetite encouraged investors to rotate back into high-growth technology names.

At the time of writing, Lam Research shares were trading around $402, up approximately 6.5% during Monday's session.

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European Investor 06-29-26

Semiconductor and AI-related stocks came under heavy pressure on Tuesday despite receiving significant price target increases from Bank of America, as a broad technology selloff overshadowed bullish analyst sentiment.

KLA Corporation (NASDAQ: KLAC) fell 8.3% to $246.84 after Bank of America raised its price target to $317 from $210 and maintained a Buy rating. Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX) dropped 8.7% to $373.99 after receiving a target increase to $480 from $330, while Marvell Technology (NASDAQ: MRVL) declined 6.9% to $286.56 after its target was lifted to $365 from $240.

The sharp declines highlight the intensity of today's technology selloff, which has affected much of the semiconductor and AI supply chain. Investors appeared focused on near-term concerns surrounding global chip demand and elevated sector valuations rather than the positive analyst actions.

Despite the weakness, Bank of America's substantial target increases suggest continued confidence in the long-term outlook for AI-related spending and semiconductor capital investment. All three companies are viewed as important beneficiaries of the ongoing expansion in artificial intelligence infrastructure, data centers, and advanced chip manufacturing.

The market reaction underscores how broader sentiment can outweigh company-specific positives in the short term. While shares fell sharply, the analyst upgrades indicate Wall Street remains optimistic about the sector's longer-term growth prospects as AI adoption continues to drive investment across the semiconductor ecosystem.

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European Investor 06-23-26

Lam Research Rises as Wells Fargo Lifts Price Target on AI Semiconductor Spending

Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX) gained 2.6% to $399 after Wells Fargo reiterated its Overweight rating and raised its price target to $450 from $365, signaling increased confidence in the company's growth prospects amid strong AI-related semiconductor investment.

The higher target reflects expectations that demand for advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment will remain robust as chipmakers continue expanding capacity to support artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and high-performance computing applications.

Lam Research is a leading supplier of wafer fabrication equipment used in etch and deposition processes, making its technology essential for producing advanced logic and memory chips. As semiconductor manufacturers move toward increasingly sophisticated process technologies, demand for Lam's equipment is expected to remain strong.

The analyst action comes amid a broader wave of bullish sentiment across the semiconductor equipment sector. Recent price target increases for companies such as ASML, KLA, Applied Materials, and Lam Research suggest Wall Street expects AI infrastructure spending to drive a multi-year investment cycle throughout the semiconductor supply chain.

Investors have become increasingly optimistic that rising demand for AI accelerators, advanced memory, and data center chips will translate into higher capital expenditures from leading foundries and integrated device manufacturers, directly benefiting equipment suppliers like Lam Research.

The stock's advance indicates investors welcomed Wells Fargo's higher valuation target as another sign that AI-driven semiconductor spending remains resilient. With global chipmakers continuing to invest aggressively in next-generation manufacturing capacity, Lam Research remains well positioned to benefit from the industry's long-term growth trends.

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Global Finance News 06-22-26

Lam Research Rallies 4.2% Premarket as Analysts Raise Price Targets on AI Demand Outlook

Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX) gained 4.2% in premarket trading after receiving multiple bullish analyst updates, reinforcing investor confidence in the semiconductor equipment maker's position within the rapidly expanding AI infrastructure market.

Citigroup analyst Atif Malik reiterated a Buy rating and raised his price target to $450 from $315, while Rothschild & Co Redburn also increased its target to $420 from $305 and maintained a Buy rating. The significant target increases reflect growing optimism about long-term semiconductor capital spending and Lam Research's ability to benefit from the AI-driven investment cycle.

Lam Research is one of the world's leading suppliers of wafer fabrication equipment used in the production of advanced semiconductors. The company specializes in etch and deposition technologies that are essential for manufacturing cutting-edge logic chips, memory products, and AI accelerators.

Investor enthusiasm has been fueled by expectations that chipmakers will continue aggressively expanding production capacity to meet surging demand for artificial intelligence applications. Major investments in AI data centers, advanced memory, and next-generation processors are driving a new wave of spending across the semiconductor industry, benefiting equipment suppliers such as Lam Research.

The company is particularly well positioned to capitalize on growth in high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and advanced packaging technologies, two critical areas supporting AI workloads. As semiconductor designs become increasingly complex, manufacturers require more sophisticated process technologies, creating additional demand for Lam's equipment portfolio.

The analyst target increases follow a broader trend of positive sentiment across semiconductor equipment stocks. Recent bullish calls on Applied Materials, KLA, and other industry leaders suggest Wall Street expects the current AI investment cycle to remain a powerful growth driver for years to come.

Beyond AI, Lam Research continues to benefit from long-term demand across memory, foundry, and logic markets. The company's strong relationships with leading chipmakers and exposure to multiple areas of semiconductor manufacturing provide a diversified platform for growth.

The strong premarket move indicates investors welcomed the analysts' more optimistic outlook. With AI-related capital expenditures accelerating globally and semiconductor manufacturers investing heavily in advanced production technologies, Lam Research remains one of the key beneficiaries of the industry's ongoing expansion.

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WS Investor 06-18-26

**Lam Research Shares Jump After Oppenheimer Reiterates Outperform Rating**

Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX) shares rose 5.3% after Oppenheimer reiterated its Outperform rating and maintained a $400 price target on the semiconductor equipment maker.

The move comes as investors continue to favor companies exposed to the AI-driven surge in semiconductor spending. Lam Research is a key supplier of wafer fabrication equipment used by leading chipmakers, positioning the company to benefit from growing demand for advanced chips and memory products.

The reaffirmed bullish stance from Oppenheimer reinforced confidence in Lam Research's long-term growth outlook, helping lift shares alongside broader strength across the semiconductor sector.

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European Investor 06-15-26

Lam Research Slips Despite Multiple Analyst Price Target Increases

Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX) shares fell 1.6% today despite receiving several bullish analyst updates that underscored Wall Street's confidence in the semiconductor equipment maker's long-term growth prospects.

Cantor Fitzgerald reiterated its Overweight rating and raised its price target to $425 from $320, while Barclays increased its target to $335 from $275 and maintained an Equal Weight rating. Raymond James also established a $425 price target, signaling continued optimism toward the company's position in the semiconductor capital equipment market.

The analyst upgrades reflect expectations that Lam Research will remain a key beneficiary of rising investments in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, particularly as demand for AI processors, memory chips, and high-performance computing infrastructure continues to accelerate.

Despite the favorable analyst actions, the stock moved lower alongside broader weakness in technology and semiconductor shares. Investors appeared cautious following recent gains across the semiconductor sector and amid concerns about interest rates and overall market sentiment.

The modest decline suggests that investors are currently focused more on macroeconomic factors than company-specific developments. However, the latest analyst targets imply meaningful upside potential from current levels, with several firms expecting Lam Research to benefit from a multi-year semiconductor investment cycle driven by artificial intelligence and advanced chip production.

While today's price action was negative, Wall Street's latest target increases reinforce the view that Lam Research remains one of the industry's strongest positioned equipment suppliers as chipmakers continue expanding capacity to meet growing AI-related demand.

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WS Investor 06-10-26

Lam Research reported record financial results for the quarter ended March 29, 2026, driven by strong demand linked to artificial intelligence. Revenue reached $5.84 billion, while net income rose to $1.83 billion, with earnings per share of $1.45 on a GAAP basis.

Profitability remained robust, with operating margins at 35% and gross margins نزدیک 50%, reflecting solid execution and industry momentum. The company highlighted that AI-driven semiconductor demand is accelerating growth and supporting customer investment in advanced chip technologies.

Despite strong earnings, cash balances declined to $4.77 billion, mainly due to capital returns, debt repayments, and capital expenditures.

Source: PR Newswire

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Global Finance News 04-24-26

IBM and Lam Research announced a new five-year collaboration to develop technologies that enable semiconductor logic scaling below the 1-nanometer node. The partnership will focus on advancing novel materials, fabrication processes and High-NA EUV (extreme ultraviolet) lithography techniques required for future generations of semiconductor chips.

The joint work will take place at the NY Creates Albany NanoTech Complex and combine IBM’s semiconductor research capabilities with Lam Research’s wafer fabrication technologies, including advanced etch, deposition and dry resist systems. The goal is to create full manufacturing process flows for next-generation nanosheet and nanostack transistor architectures as well as backside power delivery.

Both companies said the effort aims to enable higher-performance and lower-power chips needed for AI and advanced computing applications, while helping the industry move toward reliable sub-1nm chip production. The collaboration builds on more than a decade of joint work between IBM and Lam Research that previously supported breakthroughs such as nanosheet transistors and IBM’s 2nm chip technology.

Source: PRNewsrie

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European Investor 03-10-26

06-15-26European Investor

05-18-26European Investor

04-23-26WS News

04-16-26European Investor

NASDAQ:ARMH

Arm Stock Falls 5.8% Premarket Despite Record Revenue as Guidance Disappoints Investors

Arm Holdings (NASDAQ: ARM) shares fell 5.8% in premarket trading on Thursday after the chip designer issued weaker-than-expected second-quarter guidance, overshadowing another quarter of record revenue and solid growth in its royalty business.

The company reported first-quarter fiscal 2027 revenue of a record $1.29 billion, up 22% year-over-year. Royalty revenue increased 22% to $715 million, supported by broader adoption of higher-value technologies, including Armv9 architecture and Arm Compute Subsystems (CSS), as well as growing deployment of Arm-based chips in AI data centers. License and other revenue also climbed 23% to $574 million, reflecting continued demand for Arm's intellectual property.

AI Momentum Continues, But Outlook Falls Short

Profitability remained strong, with non-GAAP operating income reaching $531 million and non-GAAP earnings per share rising to $0.45 from $0.35 a year earlier. Annualized contract value (ACV), a key indicator of future licensing activity, increased 13% to $1.73 billion.

Despite the solid quarterly performance, investors focused on the company's forward guidance. Arm forecast second-quarter revenue of approximately $1.38 billion, plus or minus $50 million, and non-GAAP EPS of $0.47, a forecast that failed to meet the market's elevated expectations following the stock's strong AI-driven rally over the past year.

Valuation Remains Under Scrutiny

The decline highlights the premium expectations currently embedded in AI-related semiconductor stocks. While Arm continues to benefit from expanding adoption of its technology across smartphones, cloud infrastructure and AI accelerators, investors are increasingly demanding accelerating growth to justify elevated valuations.

What to Watch

The market will now focus on whether Arm can sustain royalty growth as Armv9 adoption expands further and AI infrastructure spending continues to accelerate. Investors will also be watching for larger licensing agreements and stronger guidance in upcoming quarters, which could help restore confidence following the post-earnings pullback.

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European Investor 07-30-26

Arm Holdings Gains 4.3% After Bernstein Reiterates Outperform Rating and Sets $500 Price Target

Arm Holdings (NASDAQ: ARM) rose 4.3% in premarket trading after Bernstein analyst David Dai reiterated an Outperform rating and established a $500 price target, reinforcing bullish sentiment toward one of the semiconductor industry's most strategically important companies.

The positive analyst action comes as investors continue to view Arm as a major beneficiary of several long-term technology trends, including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, mobile devices, automotive technology, and edge computing. The company's licensing model gives it exposure to a broad range of semiconductor markets without the manufacturing risks faced by chip producers.

Arm's architecture powers the vast majority of the world's smartphones and is increasingly gaining traction in data centers, AI infrastructure, and personal computers. As demand for energy-efficient computing continues to grow, Arm-based designs are becoming more attractive across a widening range of applications.

The Bernstein price target reflects confidence that Arm can continue expanding its royalty revenue and licensing business as customers deploy increasingly sophisticated chips built on its architecture. Investors have become particularly optimistic about the company's growing role in AI infrastructure, where power efficiency is becoming a critical competitive advantage.

The company is also benefiting from a broader shift toward custom silicon. Major technology firms, including hyperscale cloud providers, are increasingly designing proprietary processors based on Arm technology to optimize performance and reduce costs for AI and cloud workloads.

Recent enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence has driven strong interest across the semiconductor sector, with investors favoring companies positioned to benefit from rising demand for advanced computing power. While GPU manufacturers have attracted much of the attention, Arm's intellectual property business provides a different avenue for participating in the AI growth cycle.

The premarket advance suggests investors welcomed Bernstein's continued confidence in the stock. With AI adoption accelerating, data center investments rising, and Arm's technology becoming increasingly embedded across the computing landscape, market participants continue to view the company as one of the key long-term beneficiaries of the semiconductor industry's next phase of growth.

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WS Investor 06-18-26

Arm Holdings Edges Down 0.01% in Premarket Despite Record Earnings Report

Arm Holdings is trading fractionally lower in premarket today, slipping just 0.01% after a remarkable 13% surge yesterday that came ahead of the company's fourth-quarter and full-year fiscal 2026 earnings release. The near-flat premarket move suggests investors are largely satisfied with what they read in last night's shareholder letter, with the modest dip likely reflecting nothing more than routine profit-taking after such a sharp single-session gain.

The numbers themselves left little room for complaint. Quarterly revenue came in at a record $1.49 billion, above the midpoint of the company's own guidance. Licensing revenue grew 29% year-over-year to $819 million, driven by strong demand for the Arm platform, while royalty revenue climbed 11% to $671 million on growth across smartphones, Edge AI, Physical AI, and Cloud AI. Data center royalties more than doubled year-over-year, helping push non-GAAP earnings per share to a record $0.60. For the full fiscal year, revenue reached $4.92 billion, with royalty revenue up 21% and licensing revenue up 25%. Non-GAAP EPS for the full year hit a record $1.77, marking the third consecutive year of more than 20% revenue growth since the company went public.

The headline product announcement in the shareholder letter was the Arm AGI CPU, the company's first chip designed specifically for the data center and its first foray into production silicon. The company describes the opportunity as substantial, arguing that agentic AI workloads will require data centers to deploy more than four times current CPU capacity per gigawatt, creating a market opportunity of more than $100 billion by 2030. The Arm AGI CPU is positioned to deliver more than twice the performance per rack compared to x86-based platforms, and the company claims this could reduce AI data center capital expenditure by up to $10 billion per gigawatt. Meta has been named as the lead partner and co-developer, working with Arm on a multi-generation roadmap targeting more than three billion users.

Customer momentum around the new chip already looks significant. The company reported more than $2 billion in customer demand across fiscal 2027 and 2028, more than double what was stated at launch. More than 50 leading companies have signaled support for the Arm AGI CPU, including AWS, Broadcom, Google Cloud, Marvell, Microsoft, Micron, NVIDIA, Oracle, Samsung, SK Hynix, and TSMC. Commercial systems are now available to order from Supermicro, Lenovo, Quanta, and ASRock.

Beyond the data center, Arm's existing cloud footprint continues to strengthen. The company now holds roughly 50% market share of CPU compute among top hyperscalers. AWS reported that its custom silicon business, including Arm-based Graviton, is now running at more than $20 billion annually and growing at triple digits year-over-year. Google's next-generation TPUs will replace x86 host processors with custom Arm-based Axion CPUs, while Microsoft continues to expand its Cobalt CPU deployment across Azure regions.

With over 350 billion chips shipped and 22 million developers on the platform, Arm's position as the backbone of AI infrastructure — from cloud to edge — appears more entrenched than ever. The near-flat premarket move today reflects a market that largely priced in good news yesterday, but found little in the report to reverse course.

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The Investor 05-07-26

A step-by-step guide to the semiconductor supply chain for investors

The surge in AI adoption has driven unprecedented demand for semiconductors, fuelling a multiyear growth cycle.

(fifthperson.com)

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WS Investor 09-09-25

Barclays Issues Positive Forecast for ARM (NASDAQ:ARM) Stock Price

Barclays lifted their price objective on ARM from $145.00 to $155.00 and gave the company an "overweight" rating in a report on Friday.

(marketbeat.com)

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European Investor 01-17-25

Arm Announces Appointment of Eric Hayes as Executive Vice President, Operations

CAMBRIDGE, England, January 14, 2025--Arm Holdings plc (NASDAQ: ARM) today announced the appointment of Eric Hayes as executive vice president of Operations with immediate effect. Hayes will lead coordination of end-to-end execution of operational activities across multiple products and solutions, and report to Arm CEO Rene Haas.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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Global Finance News 01-15-25

Clarus Wealth Advisors Takes Position in Arm Holdings plc (NASDAQ:ARM)

Clarus Wealth Advisors acquired a new stake in shares of Arm Holdings plc (NASDAQ:ARM - Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor acquired 5,930 shares of the company's stock, valued a

(marketbeat.com)

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Global Finance News 01-15-25

06-24-26Global Finance News

06-01-26WS Investor

05-21-26European Investor

05-11-26Global Finance News

NASDAQ:HOOD

Robinhood Stock Edges Higher After Record Q2 Results and Strong Customer Growth

Robinhood Markets (NASDAQ: HOOD) shares rose 0.55% in premarket trading on Thursday after the online brokerage reported record second-quarter revenue and earnings, driven by strong trading activity, accelerating customer growth and expanding contributions from newer business lines.

Total net revenue increased 32% year-over-year to a record $1.31 billion, while net income rose 48% to $573 million. Diluted earnings per share climbed 48% to $0.62. Transaction-based revenue jumped 44% to $776 million, fueled by record options, equities and prediction market activity, although cryptocurrency trading revenue declined 38%.

Customer Growth and New Products Drive Momentum

Robinhood continued to attract new customers and assets during the quarter. Net deposits reached a record $21.7 billion, while total platform assets increased 32% to $369 billion. Funded customers grew to 28.4 million, investment accounts reached 29.9 million, and Robinhood Gold subscriptions climbed 39% year-over-year to a record 4.8 million.

The company also highlighted growing diversification beyond traditional brokerage services. Robinhood now has 13 business lines generating at least $100 million in annualized revenue, including Robinhood Legend, its credit card business and prediction markets. During the quarter, the company also expanded its AI-powered trading capabilities, launched the public mainnet of Robinhood Chain and continued its international expansion with the acquisition of WonderFi and a capital markets license in Singapore.

Strong Results, Limited Stock Reaction

Despite another record quarter, the stock posted only a modest premarket gain, suggesting investors had already priced in much of the company's strong operating momentum following Robinhood's significant share price appreciation over the past year.

What to Watch

Investors will now focus on whether Robinhood can sustain its rapid asset gathering and continue expanding higher-margin businesses such as subscriptions, banking, AI-powered trading and international operations. Trading activity, cryptocurrency volumes and adoption of the company's growing financial ecosystem are likely to remain key drivers of future performance.

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European Investor 07-30-26

Robinhood Markets, Inc. to Announce First Quarter 2026 Results on April 28, 2026

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The Investor 04-03-26

Robinhood reported February 2026 operating metrics showing continued growth in customers and deposits despite mixed trading activity.

Funded customers reached 27.4 million at the end of February, up about 140,000 from January and 1.74 million year-over-year. Total platform assets stood at $314 billion, down 3% from the previous month but up 68% compared with a year earlier. Net deposits totaled $5.6 billion during the month, while deposits over the past twelve months reached $67.8 billion.

Trading activity declined month-over-month across equities and options but remained higher year-over-year, while crypto trading volumes rose to $25 billion, up 9% from January and 74% year-over-year. Margin balances ended the month at $17.2 billion and cash and deposit balances increased to $16.5 billion.
Globe Newswire

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The Investor 03-13-26

Robinhood Markets, Inc. reported record fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results, underscoring continued momentum in customer growth, platform assets and profitability.

For full year 2025, total net revenues surged 52% year over year to a record $4.5 billion, while diluted EPS reached a record $2.05. Net income totaled $1.9 billion. The company also generated record net deposits of $68.1 billion during the year, reflecting a 35% growth rate relative to total platform assets at the end of Q4 2024.

In Q4 2025, net revenues rose 27% year over year to $1.28 billion. Transaction-based revenues increased 15% to $776 million, driven by strong growth in options revenue (+41% to $314 million), equities revenue (+54% to $94 million) and a more than 300% jump in other transaction revenue to $147 million. Crypto revenues declined 38% to $221 million. Net interest revenue climbed 39% to $411 million, supported by higher interest-earning assets and securities lending activity.

Quarterly net income was $605 million, or $0.66 per diluted share, compared with $916 million, or $1.01 per share, in Q4 2024, which had included a one-time tax and regulatory benefit. Adjusted EBITDA rose 24% year over year to $761 million.

Operationally, funded customers increased 7% year over year to 27.0 million, while investment accounts rose 8% to 28.4 million. Total platform assets jumped 68% to $324 billion, reflecting continued net deposits, acquired assets and higher equity valuations. Robinhood Gold subscribers reached a record 4.2 million, up 58% year over year.

Management highlighted continued product expansion across prediction markets, retirement accounts, advisory services and international markets, positioning the company’s “Financial SuperApp” strategy for further growth in 2026.

Source: Globe Newswire press release

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WS Investor 02-11-26

Robinhood Reports August Operating Metrics: Assets Surge, Trading Mixed

Robinhood Markets (NASDAQ: HOOD) reported 26.7 million funded accounts in August, flat month-over-month but up 2.4 million year-over-year, with growth offset by the escheatment of about 180,000 low-balance accounts. Total platform assets rose 2% to $304 billion, more than doubling from last year, while net deposits reached $4.8 billion for the month.

Trading activity was mixed: equity volumes fell 5% from July to $199.2 billion, while options activity remained steady at 195.5 million contracts. Crypto trading showed divergence, with Robinhood app volumes down 18% to $13.7 billion, but Bitstamp exchange volumes up 21% to $14.4 billion.

Margin balances climbed 10% month-over-month to $12.5 billion, while cash sweep balances edged up to $34.1 billion. Securities lending revenue came in at $53 million, down 13% from July but up 165% year-over-year.

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WS Investor 09-11-25

Robinhood Markets, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOOD) announced that it will release its second quarter 2025 financial results on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, after market close.

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The Investor 07-02-25

Robinhood Markets reported strong Q1 2025 results, with total revenues rising 50% year-over-year to $927 million and net income more than doubling to $336 million.

Transaction-based revenues surged 77%, driven by cryptocurrency trading ($252 million), options ($240 million), and equities ($56 million). Average revenue per user rose 39% to $145, while total platform assets grew 70% to $221 billion, aided by record net deposits of $18 billion and the acquisition of TradePMR. Robinhood Gold subscribers reached 3.2 million, up 90%. Adjusted EBITDA rose 90% to $470 million, and the board expanded the share repurchase program by $500 million to $1.5 billion.

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WS Investor 05-01-25

Robinhood to Report Q1 2025 Earnings on April 30

Robinhood Markets, Inc. announced it will release its financial results for the first quarter of 2025 on Wednesday, April 30, after market close. A live video call to discuss the results will follow at 2:00 PM PT / 5:00 PM ET. The webcast will be accessible via investors.robinhood.com and streamed on Robinhood’s official YouTube and X.com (@RobinhoodApp) channels.

In advance of the call, shareholders are invited to submit and vote on questions for Robinhood’s leadership through Say Technologies. The Q&A platform opens on April 23 at 2:00 PM PT and will close on April 29 at the same time. Selected top-voted questions will be addressed during the earnings call. Questions about the Q&A process can be directed to [email protected].

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The Investor 04-02-25

Robinhood Expands Credit Facility and Appoints New Board Member

Robinhood Markets, Inc. has amended its existing revolving credit agreement, increasing the total borrowing capacity from $2.25 billion to $2.65 billion, with a potential expansion to $3.975 billion. The updated agreement, entered into on March 21, 2025, with JPMorgan Chase Bank as administrative agent, features a 364-day term and tiered tranches backed by various RHS assets. Interest rates range from Daily Simple SOFR plus 0.10% to higher fixed spreads, depending on the tranche.

In governance updates, Robinhood appointed **John Hegeman** as an independent director, expanding the board to 10 members. Hegeman also joins the Safety, Risk and Regulatory Committee. His appointment was announced in a company blog post on March 25.

The company highlighted its ongoing use of its investor relations site and newsroom for important disclosures under Regulation FD.

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WS Investor 03-25-25

06-22-26WS Investor

06-01-26WS News

05-07-26European Investor

05-05-26The Investor

COINBASE:BTCUSD

Live updates: Bitcoin holds $62,600 as the Iran conflict reignites and CPI looms

Trump reinstated the Hormuz blockade, sending oil higher and rate-hike bets up, reversing the peace trade that helped bitcoin recover in early July. Today's inflation print is the next test.

(coindesk.com)

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Global Finance News 07-14-26

Bitcoin (BTC) Falls 1.2% as Cautious Sentiment Keeps Price Below $60,000

Bitcoin (BTC) traded lower on Tuesday, extending its recent weakness as investors remained cautious despite improving sentiment across global equity markets.

At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading at $59,273.83, down 1.2% over the past 24 hours after failing to reclaim the key $60,000 level.

# Bitcoin Remains Under Pressure

The world's largest cryptocurrency briefly approached $60,000 but failed to sustain momentum, with sellers pushing prices lower as traders continued to assess the outlook for monetary policy and institutional demand.

Unlike U.S. equities, which benefited from easing geopolitical tensions following the U.S.-Iran ceasefire, Bitcoin did not participate in the broader risk-on move and has remained under pressure in recent weeks.

# Macro Headwinds Continue to Weigh

Analysts point to several factors limiting Bitcoin's recovery, including uncertainty surrounding the Federal Reserve's interest-rate outlook, persistent outflows from crypto investment products, and weaker overall demand for digital assets. Recent reports have also highlighted concerns over potential additional Bitcoin supply entering the market from large holders.

# What Investors Are Watching

Market participants continue to monitor:

* Federal Reserve policy expectations.
* Institutional demand for Bitcoin.
* ETF flows and broader crypto market sentiment.
* Key technical support around the $58,000–$60,000 range.

While long-term adoption trends remain intact, Bitcoin has struggled to regain upward momentum in 2026. Until macroeconomic conditions improve or institutional buying strengthens, the cryptocurrency is likely to remain sensitive to interest-rate expectations and shifts in investor risk appetite.

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WS Investor 06-30-26

Bitcoin Holds Above $60,000 as Buyers Return After Sharp Selloff

Bitcoin (BTC) traded around *$60,360* on Saturday, gaining nearly 2% over the past 24 hours as the cryptocurrency rebounded from this week's sharp decline. The recovery comes after Bitcoin briefly slipped below the psychologically important $60,000 level, with buyers stepping in as market sentiment stabilized.

Why is Bitcoin rising?

The latest bounce appears to be driven by bargain hunting following several days of heavy selling that pushed Bitcoin to its lowest levels in months. The price chart shows buyers gradually regaining control, with BTC climbing steadily throughout the past 24 hours and holding above the $60,000 threshold.

While concerns over inflation and the Federal Reserve's interest rate outlook continue to weigh on risk assets, Bitcoin has shown signs of stabilization after the recent wave of liquidations across the crypto market.

What investors should watch

Although the latest rebound has improved short-term sentiment, Bitcoin remains below the highs seen earlier this week, suggesting volatility could persist. Investors will likely monitor macroeconomic developments, institutional fund flows, and whether BTC can establish support above $60,000 before attempting another move higher.

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The Investor 06-27-26

Bitcoin fell about 2.5% on Friday, extending its recent decline as investors reacted to persistent U.S. inflation and renewed uncertainty surrounding U.S. cryptocurrency regulation.

Sentiment weakened after the CLARITY Act, a landmark bill aimed at establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets, faced another delay in the U.S. Senate. The setback disappointed investors who had expected the legislation to provide greater regulatory certainty and support broader institutional participation in the crypto market.

Pressure also came from the latest U.S. inflation data. The Core PCE Price Index, the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge, remained at 3.4% year-over-year in May, well above the Fed's 2% target, while headline PCE accelerated to 4.1% from 3.8% in April. The figures reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates elevated for longer, reducing the appeal of risk-sensitive assets such as cryptocurrencies.

Despite the pullback investors will continue to monitor progress on U.S. crypto legislation alongside upcoming economic data and Federal Reserve commentary, which are expected to remain the key drivers of digital asset sentiment.

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WS Investor 06-26-26

Bitcoin Extends Rally Above $66,500 as Risk Appetite Returns to Crypto Markets

Bitcoin climbed above $66,500 on Tuesday, gaining roughly 1.4% over the past 24 hours and more than 4.5% over the last five days, as investors continued to add exposure to digital assets amid improving market sentiment.

The world's largest cryptocurrency has recovered steadily from last week's weakness, benefiting from a broader rebound in risk assets and growing confidence that institutional demand remains strong. Bitcoin briefly pushed above $67,000 during the recent rally before consolidating near current levels.

The cryptocurrency's resilience comes despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and volatility across commodity markets. While oil prices have retreated as concerns about a broader Middle East conflict eased, Bitcoin has continued to attract buyers, suggesting investors are increasingly viewing the asset as a long-term growth opportunity rather than solely a speculative trade.

Institutional adoption remains a key pillar supporting the market. Spot Bitcoin ETFs continue to provide traditional investors with easier access to the cryptocurrency, while corporate and institutional interest in digital assets has remained elevated. Expectations that monetary policy could become more accommodative over the coming quarters have also supported demand for higher-risk assets, including cryptocurrencies.

Technical momentum has improved as Bitcoin reclaimed the $66,000 level and approached recent highs near $67,000. Market participants are now watching whether the cryptocurrency can establish a sustained move above that resistance zone, which could open the door for a retest of higher levels reached earlier this year.

Despite the recent gains, traders remain attentive to macroeconomic developments, central bank decisions, and geopolitical headlines that could influence risk appetite. For now, however, Bitcoin's steady advance suggests investor sentiment toward the cryptocurrency market remains constructive as the second half of 2026 begins.

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WS Investor 06-16-26

Bitcoin Holds Steady Near $62,500 as Investors Await Fresh Catalysts

Bitcoin traded near $62,600 (Thursday, 06.11.2026) showing little movement as investors weighed the latest U.S. economic data and broader market conditions. The world's largest cryptocurrency was down just 0.01%, reflecting a period of consolidation after recent volatility across financial markets.

The muted price action came as traders digested mixed signals from the U.S. economy. Initial jobless claims rose above expectations, pointing to some softening in the labor market, while producer prices increased more than forecast, highlighting persistent inflation pressures. The combination has created uncertainty about the timing and pace of future Federal Reserve interest-rate decisions.

Bitcoin has increasingly traded alongside risk assets in recent years, making macroeconomic developments a key driver of sentiment. Expectations for lower interest rates generally support cryptocurrencies by improving liquidity conditions and increasing investor appetite for higher-risk assets.

Despite the lack of a strong directional move, Bitcoin remains closely watched by investors as institutional adoption continues to grow and digital assets become more integrated into mainstream financial markets. Market participants are now looking for fresh economic data, central bank signals, and developments in the cryptocurrency sector to determine the next major move.

For now, Bitcoin appears to be holding its ground, with traders waiting for a clearer catalyst before committing to a stronger bullish or bearish view.

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European Investor 06-11-26

**Bitcoin Surges Nearly 3% as Investors Embrace Risk Following Softer Core Inflation Data**

Bitcoin climbed nearly 3% on Wednesday, rising to around $62,760 and reaching its highest level of the session as investors responded positively to the latest US inflation data and renewed appetite for risk assets.

The world's largest cryptocurrency gained momentum after the May Consumer Price Index report showed underlying inflation pressures easing more than expected. While headline inflation remained elevated at 4.2% year-over-year, Core CPI rose just 0.2% during the month, below economists' forecasts. The softer core reading strengthened hopes that the Federal Reserve may eventually gain room to ease monetary policy, a development that is generally supportive for cryptocurrencies and other risk-sensitive assets.

Bitcoin's rally also came despite weakness in US equity markets, where major indexes traded lower as investors weighed the broader inflation outlook and rising energy prices. The divergence suggests that cryptocurrency traders are focusing more on the prospect of future monetary easing than on short-term stock market volatility.

With inflation showing tentative signs of moderation and expectations for future interest-rate cuts remaining intact, the macroeconomic environment remains broadly supportive for digital assets. However, investors should also expect continued volatility as markets react to upcoming economic data and Federal Reserve commentary.

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European Investor 06-10-26

Bitcoin Slides 14% in Five Days as Capital Shifts Toward New Tech Opportunities and Higher Rates

Bitcoin has fallen roughly 14% over the past five days, extending a difficult period for the cryptocurrency market as investors navigate rising interest rates, shifting liquidity conditions and growing competition for capital from the technology sector.

The decline comes after stronger-than-expected U.S. economic data reinforced expectations that interest rates could remain elevated for longer. Higher Treasury yields and a stronger U.S. dollar have reduced the appeal of speculative assets, including cryptocurrencies, as investors seek safer alternatives with increasingly attractive yields.

At the same time, capital markets have been increasingly focused on a new wave of technology fundraising activity and anticipated initial public offerings. Investor attention has shifted toward artificial intelligence, space technology, robotics and advanced semiconductor companies, sectors that have attracted enormous amounts of capital over the past year. Market speculation surrounding potential blockbuster listings, including a possible future SpaceX IPO and other high-profile private technology companies, has contributed to a rotation of risk capital away from cryptocurrencies and toward equity opportunities that many investors view as offering more tangible growth prospects.

The technology sector has also become the primary destination for global investment flows as governments, corporations and institutional investors pour hundreds of billions of dollars into AI infrastructure, data centers and next-generation computing platforms. As a result, cryptocurrencies are increasingly competing with rapidly growing technology companies for the same pool of speculative and growth-oriented capital.

Another factor weighing on Bitcoin has been broader risk aversion across financial markets. Recent volatility in U.S. equities, uncertainty surrounding global growth, and concerns about inflation have encouraged investors to reduce exposure to higher-risk assets.

While the recent selloff has been severe, many analysts note that Bitcoin remains one of the most volatile major asset classes. In the near term, market direction will likely depend on Federal Reserve policy expectations, liquidity conditions and whether investors continue to favor technology and AI-related investments over digital assets. For now, the flow of capital appears to be moving toward traditional equity markets and emerging technology opportunities, creating additional pressure on cryptocurrency prices.

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The Investor 06-06-26

Bitcoin Slides as Risk Appetite Weakens Following Tech Selloff and Rising Market Uncertainty

Bitcoin fell nearly 4% today, dropping to around $64,300 and extending a volatile week for the cryptocurrency market. The decline comes as investors reduce exposure to risk assets amid a broad selloff in technology stocks, concerns about global growth, and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.

One of the biggest catalysts behind today's weakness was the sharp post-earnings decline in Broadcom. Shares of the AI chip giant plunged more than 13% after investors reacted negatively to its outlook despite another strong quarter. The selloff spread across the semiconductor sector, dragging down Nvidia, AMD, Marvell and other technology names that have been at the center of the artificial intelligence investment boom. As enthusiasm surrounding AI stocks cools, speculative assets such as cryptocurrencies are also coming under pressure.

Bitcoin has increasingly traded like a high-beta technology asset during periods of market stress. When investors become more cautious and move away from growth stocks, cryptocurrencies often experience even larger swings. Today's decline reflects that dynamic as capital rotates toward safer assets such as gold, which gained more than 1% during the session.

The macroeconomic backdrop has also become more challenging. U.S. Initial Jobless Claims rose to 225,000, above expectations, adding to concerns that economic momentum may be slowing. Additional pressure has come from continued outflows from crypto investment products and concerns about large-holder selling activity.

Despite today's weakness, some analysts remain constructive on Bitcoin's longer-term outlook. Institutional adoption, expanding crypto infrastructure and a potentially more favorable regulatory environment could support prices over time. However, in the near term, Bitcoin appears highly sensitive to movements in technology stocks, interest-rate expectations and overall investor risk appetite. As long as uncertainty remains elevated, volatility is likely to remain a defining feature of the cryptocurrency market.

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European Investor 06-04-26

Bitcoin Falls as Stronger U.S. Economic Data Dampens Rate-Cut Hopes

Bitcoin traded about 1.5% lower on Wednesday, slipping to around $66,900 as investors reacted to stronger-than-expected U.S. economic data and a modest increase in risk aversion across financial markets.

The decline followed the release of the ADP employment report, which showed U.S. private employers added 122,000 jobs in May, slightly above expectations. The data reinforced the view that the U.S. economy remains resilient, reducing pressure on the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates aggressively in the near term. Higher-for-longer interest rates tend to be a headwind for cryptocurrencies because they increase the attractiveness of yield-bearing assets such as bonds and money market funds.

Broader market sentiment was also cautious. U.S. equity indexes moved lower during the session, while investors continued to monitor geopolitical tensions involving Iran, energy market volatility, and uncertainty surrounding global economic growth. These factors have encouraged some investors to reduce exposure to higher-risk assets.

Unlike previous periods when Bitcoin declines were driven by profit-taking after large rallies, today's weakness appears more closely tied to macroeconomic developments and shifting interest-rate expectations. Market participants are increasingly focused on upcoming economic releases, particularly Friday's U.S. nonfarm payrolls report, which could significantly influence expectations for Federal Reserve policy over the coming months.

Despite the pullback, Bitcoin continues to benefit from several longer-term structural drivers, including institutional adoption, spot Bitcoin ETF demand, and growing integration of digital assets into traditional financial markets. However, in the near term, crypto markets remain highly sensitive to interest-rate expectations and broader risk sentiment.

For now, traders appear to be taking a more cautious stance ahead of key economic data, with Bitcoin moving lower alongside other risk assets as markets reassess the timing and magnitude of potential Federal Reserve rate cuts later this year.

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Global Finance News 06-03-26

07-30-26European Investor

07-28-26WS News

07-27-26WS News

Germany

German Inflation Accelerates More Than Expected in July

Germany's inflation accelerated more than expected in July, with both monthly and annual consumer price figures coming in above market forecasts, highlighting renewed price pressures in Europe's largest economy.

Consumer prices rose 0.8% month-over-month, exceeding expectations of 0.7% and reversing June's 0.3% decline. On an annual basis, inflation accelerated to 2.8%, above the 2.7% consensus forecast and up from 2.3% in June.

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WS Investor 07-30-26

Spain Outpaces Expectations While Germany Posts Modest Q2 Growth

Spain's economy grew 0.7% quarter-over-quarter in the second quarter, outperforming market expectations of 0.6% and accelerating from the previous quarter's 0.6% expansion. The stronger-than-expected reading highlights Spain's continued resilience, supported by solid domestic demand and services activity.

Meanwhile, Germany's economy expanded 0.2% in the second quarter, slightly above economists' expectations of 0.1%. However, growth slowed from the revised 0.3% increase recorded in the previous quarter, suggesting Europe's largest economy continues to recover at a gradual pace.

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European Investor 07-30-26

German Business Confidence Improves in July as Expectations Reach Two-Year High

German business confidence strengthened for a second consecutive month in July, with improving expectations helping offset persistent weakness in current business conditions and signaling a gradual recovery in Europe's largest economy.

The Ifo Business Climate Index rose to 86.6 in July, beating market expectations of 86.1 and improving from 85.7 in June. The stronger-than-expected reading was driven primarily by a sharp improvement in business expectations.

The German Business Expectations Index climbed to 86.7 from 84.3, indicating that companies have become increasingly optimistic about the economic outlook over the coming months. Meanwhile, the Current Assessment Index edged down slightly to 86.5 from 87.0, reflecting that businesses still view present economic conditions as relatively weak despite growing optimism about the future.

Markets interpreted the data as a sign that Germany's economy may be emerging from its prolonged slowdown. However, the decline in the current assessment component suggests the recovery remains uneven, with businesses expecting better conditions ahead rather than experiencing a meaningful improvement today.

Investors will now turn their attention to upcoming eurozone GDP, inflation, and manufacturing PMI data for further evidence that Germany's improving business sentiment is beginning to translate into stronger economic growth across the region.

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European Investor 07-27-26

German Economic Sentiment Jumps in July as Confidence Improves

German investor confidence improved far more than expected in July, signaling growing optimism about the outlook for Europe’s largest economy despite continued weakness in current business conditions.

The ZEW Economic Sentiment Index climbed to 26.3 in July, comfortably beating the consensus estimate of 15.1 and rising sharply from 10.5 in June. The stronger-than-expected reading suggests financial market experts have become increasingly optimistic about Germany’s economic prospects over the next six months.

Meanwhile, the ZEW Current Conditions Index improved to -77.6 from -81.0 in the previous month, slightly outperforming expectations of -77.8. Although the indicator remains deeply negative, the improvement points to a gradual stabilization in current economic conditions.

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WS News 07-21-26

German Producer Prices Fall More Than Expected in June

German producer prices declined more than expected in June, signaling continued easing in upstream inflation pressures and reinforcing the broader disinflation trend across Europe’s largest economy.

Germany’s Producer Price Index (PPI) fell 0.3% month over month, compared with market expectations for a 0.2% decline. The reading marked a sharp reversal from May’s 0.3% increase and suggests that cost pressures facing manufacturers continued to moderate.

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WS News 07-20-26

Eurozone Inflation Eases Further in June, Supporting ECB Policy Outlook

Eurozone inflation continued to moderate in June, reinforcing expectations that the European Central Bank will have greater flexibility to continue easing monetary policy if disinflation remains on track.

Headline consumer inflation came in at 2.8% year over year, matching market expectations and slowing from 3.2% in May. Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, also met forecasts at 2.4%, down from 2.6% in the previous month.

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WS News 07-17-26

Germany’s Trade Surplus Widens Sharply in May, Beating Expectations

Germany posted a much stronger-than-expected trade surplus in May, underscoring the resilience of Europe’s largest export-driven economy despite ongoing global economic uncertainty.

Germany’s trade balance recorded a surplus of €19.1 billion in May, significantly exceeding economists’ expectations of €14.9 billion. The result also improved markedly from April’s €14.7 billion surplus, reflecting stronger external demand and a favorable trade environment.

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WS News 07-09-26

German Factory Orders Rebound More Than Expected in May

Germany’s industrial sector showed signs of improvement in May as factory orders rebounded more strongly than expected, pointing to a gradual stabilization in Europe’s largest economy.

German factory orders increased 1.9% month-over-month in May, beating economists’ expectations of a 1.1% rise and reversing April’s revised 3.2% decline.

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WS News 07-06-26

Eurozone Services PMI Sends Mixed Signals as Germany Improves, France Remains Weak

The latest HCOB Services PMI data painted a mixed picture for the eurozone economy in June, with Germany showing signs of improvement, Italy returning to modest expansion, while France remained in contraction.

Germany’s HCOB Services PMI rose to 48.6 in June from 48.1 in May, comfortably beating economists’ expectations of 46.8. Although the index remained below the 50-point threshold that separates expansion from contraction, the stronger-than-expected reading suggests the downturn in Germany’s services sector is easing.

Italy also showed encouraging signs, with its Services PMI rising to 50.2 from 49.4. While the figure came in just below the consensus estimate of 50.3, it moved back above the 50 mark, indicating a return to modest expansion after contracting in the previous month.

France, however, continued to lag behind its eurozone peers. The country’s Services PMI improved to 46.8 from 44.3 but missed expectations of 47.4, remaining firmly in contraction territory.

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WS News 07-03-26

Eurozone Inflation Cools More Than Expected in June

Inflation across the eurozone eased more than expected in June, reinforcing signs that price pressures continue to moderate and strengthening expectations for a more accommodative monetary policy outlook.

The annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) slowed to 2.8%, below economists' expectations of 3.0% and down from 3.2% in May.

Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, also declined to 2.4% from 2.6% in the previous month, coming in below the consensus forecast of 2.5%.

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The Investor 07-01-26

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06-10-25The Investor

Brent Crude

Brent Crude Holds Above $91 as U.S.-Iran Tensions and Fed Outlook Keep Oil in Focus

Brent crude traded around $91.40 per barrel on Thursday, up 0.7% in early trading, as renewed military escalation between the United States and Iran kept a geopolitical risk premium embedded in oil prices.

Recent exchanges between Washington and Tehran have raised concerns that the conflict could threaten energy flows through key shipping routes in the Middle East, particularly the Strait of Hormuz. While no major supply disruptions have materialized, traders continue to price in the possibility of tighter global oil supplies if tensions escalate further.

Oil also remained in focus following Wednesday's Federal Reserve policy decision. As widely expected, the Fed left interest rates unchanged, while signaling that future decisions will remain data dependent. However, persistently higher crude prices could complicate the inflation outlook in the months ahead. If elevated energy costs begin feeding into broader consumer prices, the Fed may have less room to consider interest rate cuts at upcoming meetings.

The latest advance leaves Brent comfortably above the psychologically important $90 level, supporting energy producers while increasing inflation concerns for oil-importing economies.

Looking ahead, investors will closely monitor developments in the Middle East, U.S. inflation data, and comments from Federal Reserve officials. Any further escalation between the U.S. and Iran could keep upward pressure on oil prices, while signs of easing geopolitical tensions may trigger profit-taking after the recent rally.

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European Investor 07-30-26

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The Investor 07-29-26

Brent Crude Surges Nearly 8% as Trump Warns U.S. Could Strike Iran Again

Brent crude extended its rally on Wednesday, climbing nearly 8% to around $90 per barrel after U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States could launch further military strikes against Iran if Tehran continues its actions, sharply increasing fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East.

The latest comments added fresh geopolitical risk to an already tense market following recent military exchanges involving the United States, Iran, and regional allies. Investors are increasingly concerned that any further escalation could disrupt oil exports from the Persian Gulf, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint that carries roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments.

The sharp rally reflects traders rapidly pricing in a higher geopolitical risk premium rather than any immediate change in physical supply. However, markets remain highly sensitive to developments, as any disruption involving major oil producers could quickly tighten global crude supplies.

Investors will closely monitor any additional statements from Washington and Tehran, as well as developments across the Middle East. Further military escalation could push Brent toward the $90-$95 range, while signs of diplomatic de-escalation would likely remove part of the geopolitical premium currently supporting oil prices.

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The Investor 07-29-26

Brent Crude Surges Above $87 as Iran-U.S.-Saudi Escalation Sparks Supply Fears

Brent crude climbed more than 3.5% on Wednesday to trade around *$87 per barrel*, with the rally driven primarily by escalating geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Saudi Arabia, which have reignited concerns over potential disruptions to global oil supplies.

The sharp move higher follows reports of military actions and heightened hostilities involving Iran, the U.S., and Saudi Arabia, prompting traders to rapidly price in a larger geopolitical risk premium. Any escalation involving major oil-producing nations in the Middle East raises fears of supply interruptions, particularly through key export routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes.

The gains were further supported by a backdrop of relatively tight global crude supplies and continued production discipline from OPEC+, leaving the market more vulnerable to geopolitical shocks. With spare supply remaining limited, any threat to Middle Eastern exports can have an outsized impact on oil prices.

Investors will continue monitoring developments involving Iran, the United States, and Saudi Arabia, as further escalation could push crude prices even higher. Conversely, any signs of de-escalation or diplomatic progress could quickly reduce the geopolitical premium that has driven Brent's latest rally.

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Global Finance News 07-29-26

Brent Crude Extends Losses as Easing Geopolitical Risks and Stronger Dollar Weigh on Oil Prices

Brent crude futures fell nearly 4% on Tuesday, slipping to around $84.90 per barrel as traders continued to unwind the geopolitical risk premium that had built up during recent Middle East tensions.

The sharp decline comes as concerns over potential supply disruptions eased following the de-escalation of hostilities between the United States and Iran. With fears of interruptions to oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz fading, investors have reduced bullish positions that had previously pushed crude prices higher.

The move was also supported by expectations that global oil supplies will remain adequate despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. Traders have increasingly shifted their focus back to market fundamentals, including OPEC+ production policy and the outlook for global demand.

Adding to the pressure, stronger U.S. Treasury yields and a firmer U.S. dollar made dollar-denominated commodities less attractive for international buyers. Meanwhile, softer-than-expected U.S. durable goods data reinforced concerns that economic activity may be moderating, tempering expectations for stronger fuel demand in the months ahead.

Despite today's decline, the broader outlook for Brent remains supported by relatively healthy summer fuel demand and continued production discipline from OPEC+ producers. However, with the immediate geopolitical premium fading, crude prices are becoming increasingly driven by macroeconomic data, central bank policy expectations, and global supply-demand fundamentals.

Investors will now closely watch this week's Federal Reserve meeting, U.S. inventory data, and any new developments in the Middle East for further direction in the oil market.

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European Investor 07-28-26

Brent Crude Falls as U.S.-Iran De-escalation Eases Supply Concerns

Brent crude oil fell on Monday, retreating toward $85 per barrel as investors reduced the geopolitical risk premium after the United States halted its military attacks on Iran, easing immediate concerns over potential supply disruptions in the Middle East.

Oil prices had rallied sharply over the previous week, briefly climbing above $90 per barrel as markets priced in the possibility of a broader regional conflict that could threaten crude production and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. However, with Washington suspending its attacks and no major disruption to oil flows materializing, traders moved to unwind part of that geopolitical premium.

Despite Monday’s pullback, oil prices remain elevated compared with levels seen before the recent escalation in Middle East tensions, reflecting that geopolitical risks have not disappeared entirely. Traders continue to monitor developments involving Iran, Israel, and the United States for any signs that tensions could flare up again.

Looking ahead, Brent crude is expected to remain sensitive to both geopolitical headlines and macroeconomic data. Investors will also watch OPEC+ production policy, U.S. inventory reports, and global demand indicators for further direction in the energy market.

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WS News 07-27-26

Brent Crude Extends Rally Above $89 as Middle East Tensions Keep Supply Risks in Focus

Brent crude climbed above $89 per barrel on Tuesday, extending its gains over the past week as escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continued to fuel concerns about potential supply disruptions.

The benchmark has gained more than 6% over the past five trading days, with investors maintaining a sizable geopolitical risk premium amid continued military exchanges involving US and Iran. Markets remain highly sensitive to any developments that could threaten production or transportation through key energy routes in the region.

The rally has also been supported by expectations that global oil markets could tighten if geopolitical risks persist. Traders continue to monitor the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping corridors, where any escalation could have significant implications for global crude exports.

Beyond geopolitics, investors are also assessing the macroeconomic outlook. Recent U.S. inflation data strengthened expectations that the Federal Reserve could begin lowering interest rates later this year, a move that may support economic activity and energy demand. At the same time, resilient U.S. labor market data has reinforced expectations that the world’s largest economy remains on solid footing despite signs of moderating consumer spending.

Looking ahead, Brent crude is likely to remain driven primarily by geopolitical developments. Any signs of de-escalation in the Middle East could ease the current risk premium, while further escalation could push oil prices higher. Traders will also continue monitoring OPEC+ production policy, U.S. inventory data, and global demand trends for additional direction.

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WS News 07-21-26

Brent Crude Climbs Toward $80 as Supply Risks Outweigh Economic Concerns

Brent crude oil advanced nearly 1% on Friday, extending its recent gains as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continued to support concerns over potential supply disruptions.

Oil prices remained elevated after recent military exchanges between the United States and Iran heightened uncertainty across the region. Investors continue to price in a geopolitical risk premium given the strategic importance of the Middle East to global energy markets.

The market also assessed this week’s U.S. economic data. Softer inflation strengthened expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate cuts, a development that could support future fuel demand by improving economic activity. However, mixed retail sales data suggested consumer spending may be moderating, limiting some of the optimism surrounding the demand outlook.

Meanwhile, traders continued monitoring global supply conditions, including OPEC+ production policy and U.S. inventory trends, while keeping a close watch on developments involving Russia and broader geopolitical risks.

With Brent approaching the $80-per-barrel level, price action is likely to remain highly sensitive to both macroeconomic developments and geopolitical headlines. Investors will continue watching Middle East tensions, central bank policy expectations, and global demand indicators for the next direction in the oil market.

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WS News 07-17-26

Brent Crude Jumps Above $86 as Middle East Tensions Rekindle Supply Concerns

Brent crude oil climbed nearly 4% on Tuesday, trading above $86 per barrel as renewed geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Iran overshadowed broader macroeconomic developments and reignited concerns over global oil supplies.

Oil prices have rallied sharply over the past several sessions following a fresh escalation in the Middle East. Recent exchanges between the U.S. and Iran have increased fears that the conflict could disrupt energy infrastructure or shipping routes in the region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical corridor for global crude exports.

The rally has also been supported by a generally constructive global economic backdrop. China's latest trade data surprised to the upside, with exports and imports both growing much faster than expected, pointing to resilient industrial activity and potentially stronger oil demand from the world's largest crude importer. Meanwhile, Germany reported a larger-than-expected trade surplus, reinforcing signs of stability in Europe's largest economy.

Despite these supportive demand signals, investors continue to monitor the outlook for global monetary policy. Mixed economic data from the United States and other major economies have kept expectations for future interest rate moves uncertain, leaving demand forecasts balanced against geopolitical risks.

Looking ahead, Brent's direction will likely remain driven by developments in the Middle East. Any further escalation between the U.S. and Iran could push prices even higher by increasing concerns over supply disruptions, while signs of de-escalation could quickly remove part of the geopolitical premium that has fueled the recent rally.

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Global Finance News 07-14-26

Oil prices rise as Trump vows to reinstate Hormuz strait blockade, US and Iran exchange strikes

Oil prices rose further on Monday as the US and Iran traded a new round of strikes.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS Investor 07-13-26

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NYSE:BE

Bloom Energy Stock Rises After Mizuho Upgrades Rating to Outperform

Bloom Energy (NYSE: BE) shares climbed approximately 25% on Thursday after Mizuho upgraded the fuel cell and distributed power company to **Outperform** from **Neutral**, while significantly raising its price target.

Mizuho analyst Maheep Mandloi increased the firm's price target to **$285** from **$242**, implying additional upside from current trading levels. The upgrade reflects growing confidence in Bloom Energy's long-term growth prospects as demand for on-site power generation continues to accelerate.

The positive outlook comes as electricity demand from artificial intelligence infrastructure and data centers continues to surge, increasing interest in alternative power solutions that can be deployed more quickly than traditional grid expansions. Bloom Energy's solid oxide fuel cell technology is increasingly viewed as a potential solution for hyperscale data centers seeking reliable, low-emission power.

The upgrade also follows improving investor sentiment toward companies benefiting from AI-driven infrastructure investment. Recent quarters have seen strong demand across the power, electrical equipment and industrial sectors as technology companies continue expanding AI computing capacity.

What to Watch

Following the strong rally, investors will look for continued commercial momentum, particularly new data center contracts and large-scale power deployments. Markets will also monitor upcoming earnings for updates on order growth, backlog, profitability and management's outlook as Bloom Energy seeks to capitalize on rapidly growing demand for distributed energy solutions.

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WS Investor 07-30-26

Bloom Energy (BE) Surges 24% After Historic Earnings Beat

Bloom Energy shares rocketed 24% on Wednesday after a Q1 earnings report that shattered expectations. The fuel cell maker posted revenue of $751.1 million, up 130% year over year, while non-GAAP EPS of $0.44 came in nearly four times above analyst consensus (Investing com).

The driver is simple: soaring demand from AI data centers. Bloom's partnership with Oracle, covering up to 2.8 GW of fuel cell capacity, is seen as a defining multi-year contract (TIKR). Management raised its 2026 revenue forecast to $3.4 to $3.8 billion, well above the prior Street estimate of $3.2 billion (Motley Fool).

Morgan Stanley raised its price target to $310 from $184 and Loop Capital lifted its target to $290, both keeping bullish ratings (TipRanks).

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Global Finance News 04-29-26

VantagePoint Vantagepoint A.I. Hot Stocks Outlook for January 16, 2026 Stocks $BA, $IPMLF, $SE, $MLKN, $AMC, $STNG

Register for a Free Live Training The Hot Stocks Outlook uses VantagePoint’s market forecasts that are up to 87.4% accurate, demonstrating how traders can improve their timing and direction. In this week’s video, VantagePoint Software reviews forecasts for Cameco ($CCJ), Bloom Energy($BE)

(vantagepointsoftware.com)

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Global Finance News 01-17-26

Bloom Energy Announces Exchange of $112.8 Million in 2025 Notes for New 2029 Convertible Notes

On May 7, 2025, Bloom Energy Corporation entered into privately negotiated exchange agreements with certain holders of its 2.50% Green Convertible Senior Notes due 2025. The company exchanged approximately $112.8 million in principal of the 2025 Notes for approximately $115.7 million of new 3.00% Green Convertible Senior Notes due 2029.

The 2029 Notes are senior unsecured obligations maturing on June 1, 2029, and bear interest at 3.00% per annum, payable semi-annually. The notes are convertible into cash, shares of Bloom’s Class A common stock, or a combination thereof, at the company’s discretion. The initial conversion price is $20.84 per share, subject to adjustment, with early redemption possible beginning June 7, 2027, under certain conditions.

The notes were issued under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and are not registered securities. If fully converted, the 2029 Notes could result in the issuance of up to approximately 7.36 million shares of Class A common stock. Following this transaction, $2.2 million of the 2025 Notes remain outstanding alongside $518.2 million of the 2029 Notes.

Bloom Energy issued a press release on May 8, 2025, detailing the exchange transaction.

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ME NEWS 05-13-25

04-07-26The Investor

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