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China Holds Five-Year Loan Prime Rate at 3.50% in September China kept its five-year Loan Prime Rate (LPR) unchanged at

China kept its five-year Loan Prime Rate (LPR) unchanged at 3.50% in September, matching market the previous month’s level. The decision signals that Chinese...

09-20-26

AWS Launches AI Workflows for Energy and Utilities With Amazon Quick Amazon Web Services announced new ready-to-use AI workflows for

Amazon Web Services announced new ready-to-use AI workflows for Amazon Quick, targeting energy and utilities companies with industry-specific tools for areas including grid planning,...

09-19-26

Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (Nasdaq: TXN) announced it will raise its quarterly cash dividend 7%, from $1.42 per share to

$1.52. The dividend will...

09-19-26

Merck Wins Positive EU CHMP Opinion for KEYTRUDA-Padcev Bladder Cancer Regimen Merck said the European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Medicinal

Merck said the European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use issued a positive opinion recommending approval of KEYTRUDA plus Padcev as...

09-19-26

Warren Buffett Becomes Berkshire Hathaway Chairman Emeritus as Howard Buffett Takes Chair Role Berkshire Hathaway announced a major leadership transition

Berkshire Hathaway announced a major leadership transition Friday, naming Warren E. Buffett Chairman Emeritus while keeping him on the company’s board of directors. Howard...

09-19-26

The latest iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods lineups arrive in stores worldwide - Apple

On Friday, September 18, Apple Store locations around the world introduced customers to the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch...

apple.com 09-19-26

etflix Stock Falls 4.4% as Wells Fargo Downgrades Shares to Underweight Netflix shares fell 4.4% to $71.97 after Wells Fargo

Netflix shares fell 4.4% to $71.97 after Wells Fargo downgraded the stock to Underweight from Neutral and cut its price target to $57 from...

09-18-26

MACOM Technology Stock Rises 4.5% as BMO Upgrades Shares to Outperform MACOM Technology Solutions shares rose 4.5% to $274.94 after

MACOM Technology Solutions shares rose 4.5% to $274.94 after BMO Capital Markets upgraded the stock to Outperform from Market Perform and set a $335...

09-18-26

Magna International Stock Falls 3.1% as BMO Cuts Rating to Market Perform Magna International shares fell 3.1% to $62.82 after

Magna International shares fell 3.1% to $62.82 after BMO Capital Markets cut its rating on the auto supplier to Market Perform from Outperform and...

09-18-26

Cognizant Stock Falls 2.4% as TD Cowen Reiterates Hold Rating Cognizant Technology Solutions shares fell 2.4% to $60.37 after TD

Cognizant Technology Solutions shares fell 2.4% to $60.37 after TD Cowen reiterated its Hold rating with a $54 price target. The target sits below...

09-18-26

Accenture Stock Falls 3.4% as Guggenheim Downgrades Shares to Neutral Accenture shares fell 3.4% to $183.84 after Guggenheim downgraded the

Accenture shares fell 3.4% to $183.84 after Guggenheim downgraded the stock to Neutral from Buy. The downgrade added pressure to a stock already facing...

09-18-26

U.S. Stocks Slip as Weak Industrial Data and Higher Yields Offset Fed-Driven Optimism U.S. stocks traded modestly lower Friday as

U.S. stocks traded modestly lower Friday as investors weighed softer economic data against lingering confidence in the Federal Reserve’s inflation-fighting stance. The S&P 500...

09-18-26

Brent Crude

Brent Crude Falls Below $100 as Saudi Supply Concerns Ease

Brent crude futures fell 1.37% to around $98.56 a barrel Friday morning, extending a multi-session decline as fears of an immediate Saudi supply disruption continued to fade.

Oil prices had surged earlier in the week after attacks damaged Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline and disrupted loadings from the Yanbu export hub. Since then, Saudi Arabia has begun restoring pipeline capacity and increasing crude movements through alternative routes, including Oman, reducing some of the geopolitical risk premium that had pushed Brent toward $110. (Reuters)

Geopolitical risks remain significant in Middle East and Ukraine, however. That means oil prices could remain volatile even as immediate supply fears ease.

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European Investor 09-18-26

Brent Crude Falls 1.4% as Middle East Supply Fears Ease

Brent crude futures fell 1.44% to around $104.31 a barrel Thursday morning, extending their retreat from this week’s highs as concerns over immediate Middle East supply disruptions eased.

Oil prices came under pressure as Saudi Arabia worked to maintain crude exports following attacks on its East-West pipeline. Saudi shipments are being redirected through Oman’s Sohar port, while expectations that damaged pipeline infrastructure could return to service within days have reduced some of the geopolitical risk premium that recently pushed Brent toward $110. (Reuters)

Prices also reacted to comments from U.S. President Donald Trump expressing hope that the war with Iran was nearing an end, although fighting involving Saudi Arabia and Houthi forces continued to keep regional supply risks elevated. (Internazionale)

Brent nevertheless remains above $100 as Middle East tensions continue to threaten energy flows.

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Global Finance News 09-17-26

Brent Crude Surges Above $109 as Saudi Pipeline Shutdown Deepens Supply Fears

Brent crude surged more than 4% on Monday, climbing to $109.33 a barrel as escalating Middle East disruptions intensified concerns over global oil supplies.

The latest rally followed drone attacks that damaged Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline, forcing the key route to remain closed over the weekend. The pipeline has become particularly important because it allows Saudi crude to bypass the Strait of Hormuz and reach the Red Sea. Reuters reported that fresh attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure and vessels in the region have compounded supply concerns.

Risks are also increasing around the Bab el-Mandeb shipping route, while a planned meeting between Iran and Gulf states to discuss shipping through the Strait of Hormuz was postponed. The setback reduced hopes for an immediate diplomatic solution to disruptions affecting some of the world’s most important energy corridors.(Reuters)

Brent has now returned to the $109 area after briefly retreating toward $104 late last week. The renewed surge is likely to keep inflation concerns elevated ahead of this week’s Federal Reserve decision, with higher energy costs adding another complication for the interest-rate outlook.

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WS Investor 09-14-26

Brent Crude Falls 3% as Diplomatic Hopes Trigger Pullback From Near $110

Brent crude futures fell sharply on Friday, retreating 3.02% to $104.38 a barrel after briefly approaching $110 earlier in the session. The decline follows Thursday’s 6.3% surge, when Brent settled at $107.63 amid escalating attacks on shipping in the Middle East.

The pullback came as traders reacted to reports that Gulf ministers are expected to meet Iran next week in an effort to secure temporary access through the Strait of Hormuz. Any improvement in shipping conditions could ease some of the supply-risk premium that has rapidly built into crude prices. (Financial Times)

Still, supply risks remain elevated. Traffic through Hormuz continues to be constrained, while the Iran-aligned Houthis’ seizure of Yemen’s Mocha port has increased concerns over another critical shipping route near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

Despite Friday’s decline, Brent remains on track for a weekly gain of roughly 10% and is set to finish the week above $100 for the first time since mid-May, underscoring how strongly the prolonged Middle East conflict continues to influence global energy markets.

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European Investor 09-11-26

Brent Crude Surges Above $105 as Middle East Supply Crisis Deepens

Brent crude oil extended its powerful rally Thursday, climbing 4.28% to $105.54 a barrel as escalating Middle East tensions and severe supply disruptions intensified concerns over global oil availability. Brent has now gained more than 10% over the past five sessions.

A sharp deterioration in Saudi Arabian supply has become a major catalyst. Saudi crude production reportedly fell to around 6.2 million barrels per day in August, down roughly 23% and reaching levels last seen in the 1990s, as regional conflict disrupted exports and shipping routes (Financial Times).

The broader supply picture is also tightening. Flows through the Strait of Hormuz remain severely constrained amid the U.S.-Iran conflict. The disruptions have increased concerns that available supply may struggle to compensate for lost Gulf barrels.

The oil rally is also spilling into global financial markets. U.S. producer inflation accelerated to 5.4% year over year in August, while the 10-year Treasury yield climbed to around 4.92% as investors assessed the risk that higher energy costs could prolong inflation and force the Federal Reserve to maintain tighter monetary policy.

With Brent now firmly above $100, markets are closely watching developments around Hormuz and Saudi production. Further supply disruptions could keep upward pressure on crude prices and reinforce inflation concerns across the global economy.

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The Investor 09-10-26

Brent Crude Touches $100 as U.S.-Iran Conflict Escalates and Supply Risks Mount

Brent crude oil futures climbed to the $100-per-barrel threshold on Wednesday as escalating conflict involving the U.S., Iran and regional allies intensified concerns over Middle Eastern oil supplies.

Brent was trading at $99.97, up $2.05, or 2.09%, after briefly rising above $100 earlier in the session. Reuters reported an intraday high of $100.19, marking the benchmark’s first move above $100 since July 24.

The latest rally follows a sharp escalation in the U.S.-Iran conflict. U.S. forces said they destroyed five Iranian oil tankers on Tuesday, while Iran retaliated by firing ballistic missiles at a U.S.-used base in Jordan and attacking vessels attempting to cross an area of the Strait of Hormuz that Tehran has declared unsafe. (Reuters)

Supply concerns have also increased after Iran-backed Houthis attacked Saudi cities and energy facilities, causing fires and temporarily halting operations at some sites.

Shipping data underline the pressure on regional energy flows. Only six commodity vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, compared with a 10-day average of about 12, according to preliminary Kpler data cited by Reuters.

Brent has now risen roughly 25% since early August as hopes for a lasting resolution to the conflict have faded. A sustained move above $100 would increase inflation concerns globally and could further complicate the outlook for interest rates ahead of upcoming U.S. inflation data and the Federal Reserve’s September meeting.

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European Investor 09-09-26

Brent Nears $100 as U.S.-Iran Tensions Escalate, While Gold Falls on Rate-Hike Fears

Brent crude surged toward the psychologically important $100-per-barrel level on Tuesday as the U.S.-Iran conflict intensified, while gold moved sharply lower as rising oil prices reinforced inflation concerns and expectations for tighter Federal Reserve policy.

Brent futures climbed 2.51% to $98.70 per barrel, reaching an intraday high above $99. The rally comes as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains severely disrupted. Geopolitical tensions have continued to deteriorate. Iran has threatened retaliation for further U.S. attacks and warned that energy infrastructure across the Gulf could be targeted. Tehran is also preparing a new restricted maritime zone around the Gulf and Hormuz area. Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi forces attacked Saudi energy facilities on Tuesday, further expanding concerns about regional energy infrastructure. (Reuters)

Gold, however, has not benefited from the escalating geopolitical risk. December futures fell *0.83% to $4,439.50*, extending their retreat after Friday’s strong U.S. employment report.

The key connection is oil. Higher crude prices increase the risk that energy costs will reignite inflation, potentially forcing the Fed to maintain tighter monetary policy. Markets are currently pricing roughly a 60% probability of a Fed rate hike. Higher expected rates raise the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding gold.

The U.S.-Iran conflict is therefore producing an unusual divergence: Brent is benefiting directly from fears of physical supply disruption, while gold’s traditional safe-haven support is being overwhelmed by the inflation and interest-rate implications of the oil surge. U.S. inflation data later this week will be crucial for determining whether that divergence continues.

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Global Finance News 09-08-26

Brent Oil Holds Near $97 as U.S.-Iran Conflict Escalates

Brent crude oil traded higher on Monday as escalating military exchanges between the United States and Iran intensified concerns about prolonged disruptions to Middle Eastern oil supplies.

Brent was trading around $96.75 per barrel, up 0.49%. The latest escalation came over the weekend. U.S. forces struck three Iranian oil tankers on Saturday after Iran launched ballistic missiles at two U.S. Navy ships. Iran subsequently said it targeted three tankers using unauthorized routes through the Strait of Hormuz as well as additional U.S. vessels. (Reuters)

The Strait of Hormuz remains the central risk for crude prices. Tanker traffic through the waterway has fallen to its lowest level since May, while Iran said Monday that it plans to establish a new restricted shipping zone in the Gulf. (Reuters)

Supply concerns are therefore keeping a substantial geopolitical premium embedded in Brent. Further attacks on tankers or a deeper disruption to Hormuz traffic could push oil toward the psychologically important *$100-per-barrel level*, while any meaningful de-escalation between Washington and Tehran could quickly remove part of that risk premium.

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European Investor 09-07-26

Iran Says It Targeted Oil Tankers in Response to US Strikes

Iran said it targeted three oil tankers using an unauthorized route through the Strait of Hormuz, as well as a number of US-linked ships, in retaliation for American attacks on Iranian tankers over the weekend.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS News 09-06-26

Brent Crude Jumps 7.8% for the Week as U.S.-Iran Conflict Revives Supply Fears

Brent crude posted a strong weekly gain as renewed fighting between the United States and Iran brought Middle East supply risks back to the forefront.

December Brent futures finished Friday at $96.28 a barrel, up 0.8% on the session and roughly 7.8% over the five-day period. The rally accelerated early in the week after renewed U.S.-Iran strikes raised fears of further disruptions to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

For the coming week, *Hormuz remains the key catalyst*. Further escalation between the U.S. and Iran could push Brent toward the psychologically important $100 level, while improved tanker flows or signs of de-escalation could quickly remove part of the geopolitical premium.

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WS Investor 09-05-26

09-20-26WS News

09-19-26WS News

09-18-26European Investor

09-17-26The Investor

US Dividends

Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (Nasdaq: TXN) announced it will raise its quarterly cash dividend 7%, from $1.42 per share to $1.52. The dividend will be payable November 10, 2026, to stockholders of record on October 30, 2026, contingent upon formal declaration by the board of directors at its regular meeting in October.

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Global Finance News 09-19-26

Keurig Dr Pepper (NASDAQ: KDP) announced that its Board of Directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.23 per share, payable in U.S. dollars, on the Company's common stock. The regular quarterly dividend will be paid on October 9, 2026 to shareholders of record on September 28, 2026.

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The Investor 09-17-26

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of sixty-three cents ($0.63) per share on the $0.10 par value common stock of the company.

The dividend is payable on November 2, 2026, to stockholders of record at the close of business on October 2, 2026.

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WS Investor 09-16-26

Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR) announced today that its Board of Directors has approved a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.40 per share of its common stock, payable on October 30, 2026 to holders of record on September 30, 2026.

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WS Investor 09-16-26

Microsoft Corp. on Tuesday announced that its board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.98 per share, reflecting a 7 cent or 8% increase over the previous quarter’s dividend. The dividend is payable Dec. 10, 2026, to shareholders of record on Nov. 19, 2026. The ex-dividend date will be Nov. 19, 2026.

The Board of Directors of JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) declared a quarterly dividend of $1.65 per share on the outstanding shares of the common stock of JPMorganChase, an increase from the prior quarterly dividend of $1.50 per share. The dividend is payable on October 31, 2026, to stockholders of record at the close of business on October 6, 2026.

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WS Investor 09-16-26

Dividend Growth Stocks: The Clorox Company (CLX) Dividend Stock Analysis

Your source for finding the best dividend growth stocks

(dividend-growth-stocks.com)

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The Investor 09-12-26

Meta and Applied Materials Declare Quarterly Cash Dividends

Meta Platforms and Applied Materials announced quarterly cash dividends on September 10, continuing shareholder capital returns at two of the largest U.S. technology companies.

Meta’s board declared a quarterly dividend of $0.525 per share for both Class A and Class B common stock. The dividend will be paid on September 28 to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 21.

Applied Materials separately declared a quarterly dividend of $0.53 per share, payable December 10 to shareholders of record on November 19. The semiconductor equipment company increased its quarterly dividend by 15% earlier this year, from $0.46 to $0.53, marking its ninth consecutive annual dividend increase.

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Global Finance News 09-11-26

Kenvue Inc. (NYSE: KVUE) today announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.21 per share on its common stock. The quarterly dividend is payable on October 2, 2026, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on September 21, 2026.

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The Investor 09-10-26

Johnson Controls Declares $0.40 Quarterly Dividend

Johnson Controls International (NYSE: JCI) announced that its board of directors approved a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.40 per share.

The dividend will be payable on October 16, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 21.

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WS Investor 09-09-26

Nvidia Can Clearly Afford a Bigger Dividend. Why Its Payout Hasn’t Grown.

Nvidia left its quarterly dividend unchanged at $0.25 after reporting Q2 revenue of $96.2 billion, even though the company clearly has the cash to pay more.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS News 09-01-26

09-20-26WS News

09-18-26European Investor

09-16-26WS Investor

S&P 500

U.S. Stocks Slip as Weak Industrial Data and Higher Yields Offset Fed-Driven Optimism

U.S. stocks traded modestly lower Friday as investors weighed softer economic data against lingering confidence in the Federal Reserve’s inflation-fighting stance.

The S&P 500 fell 0.20% to 7,622.67, while the Dow Jones declined 0.34% to 51,602.07. The Nasdaq was down 0.13% at 26,383.07, giving back part of its earlier gains.

The session followed Thursday’s rally, when falling oil prices and lower long-term Treasury yields helped investors respond positively to the Fed’s 25-basis-point rate increase. The central bank raised its benchmark range to 3.75%–4.00%, and Chair Kevin Warsh emphasized that inflation remains too high, reinforcing confidence that the Fed is prepared to act against persistent price pressures.

Friday’s economic data were less supportive. U.S. industrial production was unchanged in August, missing expectations for a 0.3% increase, while manufacturing output fell 0.3% after seven consecutive monthly gains. The U.S. Leading Index also declined 0.1%, pointing to some moderation in near-term economic momentum.

At the same time, Treasury yields remained an important headwind. The 10-year yield has recently traded near 5%, keeping pressure on equity valuations, particularly in growth-sensitive sectors. Brent crude’s retreat below $100 has helped ease some inflation concerns, but investors remain focused on whether the Fed will deliver another rate increase later this year.

For now, Wall Street appears caught between confidence in the Fed’s inflation response and concern that tighter monetary policy, high yields and slowing industrial momentum could weigh on growth.

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WS Investor 09-18-26

U.S. Stocks Rally as Technology Leads Broad Market Gains

U.S. stocks traded firmly higher Thursday, with the S&P 500 up 1.09% as investors extended the positive reaction to the Federal Reserve’s latest policy decision.

Technology led the advance, with the S&P 500 Information Technology sector rising 2.10%. Consumer Discretionary gained 1.63%, while Utilities, Materials and Real Estate also posted solid gains.

The broad participation suggests investors were not only buying growth stocks but also rotating into rate-sensitive sectors. The market’s strength comes after the Federal Reserve raised rates by 25 basis points to 4.00% on Wednesday, a move that appears to have increased confidence that policymakers are taking inflation risks seriously while avoiding a more aggressive tightening step.

Most sectors were higher, with Health Care up 0.47%, Industrials up 0.40%, Communication Services up 0.25% and Financials up 0.16%. Energy was nearly flat, while Consumer Staples was the only sector in negative territory, down 0.21%.

The strong performance in technology and discretionary shares indicates improving risk appetite, while gains in utilities and real estate suggest investors are also responding positively to the broader interest-rate outlook.

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The Investor 09-17-26

U.S. Stocks Rally as Fed Rate Hike Boosts Confidence in Inflation Fight

U.S. stocks opened sharply higher Thursday, with investors responding positively to the Federal Reserve’s interest-rate decision and signs that policymakers remain committed to bringing inflation under control.

The S&P 500 rose 0.93% to 7,621.95, while the Dow Jones gained 0.52% to 51,730.65. The Nasdaq led the advance, climbing 1.28% to 26,312.06 as technology shares attracted renewed buying.

The gains followed Wednesday’s Federal Reserve decision to raise its benchmark rate by 25 basis points to a 3.75%–4.00% range. Although the move was widely expected, the unanimous decision under Fed Chair Kevin Warsh appeared to strengthen investor confidence that the central bank is prepared to address persistent inflation pressures.

Sentiment was also supported by a pullback in oil prices, easing some concerns that high energy costs could add further inflation pressure. Reuters reported that U.S. stock futures had already moved higher before the opening bell as lower crude prices reinforced the positive reaction to the Fed decision.

Still, the Fed maintained a hawkish stance, with most policymakers indicating that another rate increase could be appropriate before the end of the year. For now, however, markets appear to be focusing on the credibility of the Fed’s inflation response.

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WS News 09-17-26

U.S. Stocks Rise as Tech Gains Offset Fed Rate Concerns After Strong Retail Sales

U.S. stocks traded mostly higher Wednesday, with the S&P 500 up 0.37% to 7,613.62 and the Nasdaq gaining 0.69% to 26,160.05. The Dow Jones was nearly flat, slipping 0.08% to 52,048.87, as technology stocks led the market higher ahead of the Federal Reserve’s policy decision.

Fresh economic data showed that U.S. consumers remain surprisingly resilient. Retail sales jumped 1.2% month over month in August, beating the 0.8% forecast and reversing July’s 0.5% decline. Core retail sales were even stronger, rising 1.4% versus the 0.6% expected. The data adds to evidence that the U.S. economy continues to carry solid momentum.

The strength of consumer spending also complicates the interest-rate outlook. Markets are pricing a roughly 90% probability that the Fed will raise rates by 25 basis points later Wednesday, as policymakers confront persistent inflation and the inflationary impact of higher energy prices. The 10-year Treasury yield, which recently crossed 5% and reached its highest level since 2007, eased to around 4.97%, providing some relief for growth and technology stocks.

Oil prices also pulled back after their recent surge, with Brent falling around 1.5% today.

Investors are now focused on the Fed decision and Chair Kevin Warsh’s comments for clues on whether an expected rate increase represents a one-time response to renewed inflation pressures or the beginning of a broader tightening cycle.

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WS Investor 09-16-26

U.S. Stocks Fall as 10-Year Yield Hits 5% and Oil Fuels Fed Hike Fears

U.S. stocks traded lower Tuesday as surging Treasury yields, elevated oil prices and renewed geopolitical tensions outweighed signs of continued job creation.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.96%, while the Nasdaq Composite declined 0.58% and the S&P 500 lost 0.44%. The benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury yield climbed above 5%, reaching its highest level since 2007 as investors prepared for Wednesday’s Federal Reserve decision. Markets are pricing a roughly 90% probability of a 25-basis-point rate hike.

Economic data offered a mixed picture. Weekly ADP employment growth accelerated to 16,300 from 12,000, suggesting the labor market continues to add jobs. However, the New York Empire State Manufacturing Index dropped to 7.6 in September from 20.6, well below the 14.8 forecast.

Geopolitical risks remain another major headwind. Oil prices have stayed above $100 as renewed attacks involving Iran-aligned Houthis and Saudi Arabia increased concerns over Middle East supply disruptions. Higher energy prices are reinforcing inflation fears.

With bond yields around 5% increasing the relative attractiveness of fixed-income assets and putting pressure on equity valuations, investors are likely to remain cautious ahead of the Fed decision and its guidance on whether additional rate hikes could follow.

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The Investor 09-15-26

S&P 500 Slips as Tech and Industrials Weigh, Communication Services Leads

U.S. stocks traded modestly lower Monday afternoon, with the S&P 500 down 0.24% at 7,638.81 around 1:43 p.m. EDT, as weakness in technology and industrial shares offset strong gains in communication services and health care.

The session showed a sharp divergence across sectors. Communication Services led the S&P 500 with a 2.77% gain, followed by Health Care at 1.39% and Consumer Staples at 1.33%. At the other end, Industrials fell 1.54%, Utilities dropped 1.12%, and Information Technology declined 1.08%.

Technology remained under pressure after calls from leading AI executives to slow development of the most advanced AI models raised questions about the pace of AI infrastructure investment. Semiconductor stocks were particularly exposed, while some large software and internet companies benefited from a rotation within technology-related shares.

Broader sentiment was also pressured by elevated oil prices and Treasury yields. Brent crude traded above $108 following additional Middle East supply disruptions, while the 10-year Treasury yield briefly reached 5%, intensifying inflation concerns. Markets are now pricing a high probability of a Federal Reserve rate hike this week following hotter U.S. inflation data.

Despite these pressures, the S&P 500 had recovered substantially from its intraday lows by early afternoon, suggesting that strength in defensive sectors and selected mega-cap stocks was helping limit the broader market decline.

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WS Investor 09-14-26

U.S. Stocks Fall as Oil Surge, Inflation Fears and AI Selloff Pressure Wall Street

U.S. stocks opened lower on Monday as a renewed surge in oil prices intensified inflation concerns while a selloff in artificial intelligence stocks weighed heavily on the technology sector.

The S&P 500 fell 0.49% to 7,619.13, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.23% to 52,454.22. The tech-heavy Nasdaq underperformed, dropping 0.73% to 26,140.28.

Brent crude jumped more than 4% to around $109 a barrel, adding to concerns that elevated energy costs could keep inflation higher for longer. Those worries are particularly important ahead of this week’s Federal Reserve decision, with markets pricing a high probability of another rate increase after recent inflation data.

Technology shares faced an additional headwind from a reassessment of the AI boom. AI-linked stocks came under pressure after leading industry executives called for slowing the development of increasingly powerful AI models over safety concerns. Nvidia and several semiconductor stocks fell, helping explain the Nasdaq’s sharper decline.

The combination of higher oil prices, renewed inflation risks and uncertainty over the pace of AI investment is putting pressure on equity valuations, particularly high-growth technology stocks.

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WS Investor 09-14-26

Treasury Yields Are Climbing. Can Stocks Hold Their Ground?

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

(articles.stockcharts.com)

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The Investor 09-12-26

S&P 500 Rises Nearly 1% as Oil Retreat and Tech Rally Lift Wall Street

U.S. stocks rallied Friday, with the S&P 500 rising 0.96% to 7,664.52 in afternoon trading as a pullback in oil prices and strength across technology-related sectors helped Wall Street rebound from Thursday’s decline.

Communication services led the S&P 500 with a 1.48% gain, followed by information technology at 1.37%, industrials at 1.13% and consumer discretionary at 1.11%. Ten of the 11 major sectors were higher, while health care fell 0.26% and utilities slipped 0.12%.

Investors were also digesting August inflation data. Headline CPI increased 0.4% month over month and 3.4% from a year earlier, both matching expectations. Core CPI rose a hotter-than-expected 0.3% monthly, strengthening expectations that the Federal Reserve will raise rates next week. Market-implied odds of a quarter-point hike climbed to nearly 90%. (Reuters)

Technology shares benefited from renewed optimism around AI infrastructure following Oracle’s earnings. Meanwhile, Brent crude retreated about 3% to around $104 a barrel after approaching $110 earlier, providing some relief from the inflation concerns that pressured equities and pushed Treasury yields sharply higher earlier in the week.

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The Investor 09-11-26

U.S. Stock Futures Jump After CPI Data as Oracle Rally and Oil Pullback Lift Sentiment

U.S. stock futures moved sharply higher Friday after August inflation data came broadly in line with expectations, while a pullback in oil prices and strong Oracle earnings helped improve sentiment. S&P 500 futures rose 0.92%, Dow futures gained 0.94%, and Nasdaq futures advanced 1.06%.

Headline CPI increased 0.4% month-over-month in August, matching expectations but accelerating from 0.1% in July. Annual inflation held at 3.4%. Core CPI rose 0.3% on the month, slightly above the 0.2% forecast, while the annual core rate eased to 2.4% from 2.5%. The mixed report leaves inflation concerns alive ahead of next week’s Federal Reserve meeting, particularly after Thursday’s hotter producer-price data.

Energy markets provided some relief. Brent crude fell about 3% to around $104 a barrel after briefly approaching $110, although it remains up strongly for the week. Reports of diplomatic efforts to establish temporary shipping arrangements through the Strait of Hormuz helped cool prices. However, geopolitical risks remain elevated as the U.S.-Iran conflict and attacks on regional shipping continue to restrict oil flows.

Technology stocks were also supported by Oracle, which jumped about 6% in premarket trading after reporting a 30% increase in Q1 revenue to $19.3 billion. Cloud infrastructure revenue surged 121% to $7.4 billion, while remaining performance obligations reached $664 billion amid strong AI demand.

Despite the equity rebound, bond yields remain a key risk. The 10-year Treasury yield is hovering near 4.94%, leaving markets sensitive to inflation, oil prices and changing expectations for the Fed’s September decision.

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WS Investor 09-11-26

09-20-26WS News

09-18-26WS Investor

09-18-26European Investor

09-17-26The Investor

NASDAQ:META

Meta Expands Threads Parental Supervision Across Asia-Pacific

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META) is rolling out parental supervision tools for Threads across Asia-Pacific, expanding its efforts to give parents greater visibility and control over how teenagers use its social-media platforms.

Through Meta’s Family Center, parents will be able to monitor how much time their teens spend on Threads, establish daily usage limits and block access during selected hours. Parents can also adjust sleep mode, control who can tag their teen and manage certain privacy and sensitive-content settings.

The new controls build on Threads’ existing Teen Accounts, which automatically provide protections including private accounts and restrictions on the content shown to younger users. For teens under 16, parents can determine whether those default protections can be relaxed.

The expansion brings Threads more closely in line with Meta’s broader parental-control framework across its apps as the company continues investing in teen safety and family-management tools.

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WS Investor 09-16-26

Meta Launches Meta One Subscription Service With Expanded AI Features

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META) has launched Meta One, a new subscription service spanning Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp and Meta AI, creating another potential revenue stream beyond the company’s core advertising business. Meta said more than 50 features are available at launch, while its subscription products have already accumulated 15 million subscriptions and trials.

Meta One combines premium social-media features with higher usage limits for the company’s increasingly compute-intensive AI tools. Subscribers can generate and edit more images and videos with Meta AI, access additional Instagram AI features and choose between individual app subscriptions and broader Core and Premium bundles. Meta said its basic apps and everyday Meta AI experience will remain free.

The company is also targeting creators and businesses with professional tools, including enhanced profiles, audience-growth features and greater access to Meta Business Agent for automated customer interactions. Meta plans to expand these capabilities with additional AI agents, content-creation tools and business automation features.

Pricing starts at $2.99 per month for individual products and $7.99 for consumer bundles, while creator and business packages begin at $14.99 and extend to as much as $499 per month for the highest-tier plan. The rollout gives Meta another way to monetize its enormous user base and growing AI ecosystem through recurring subscription revenue alongside advertising.

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WS Investor 09-16-26

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Global Finance News 09-11-26

Meta Expands WhatsApp Payments in India With New Bill-Pay Feature

Meta is expanding WhatsApp’s role in India’s digital payments market with the launch of a new feature allowing users to pay household and utility bills directly within the messaging app.

The service, powered by India’s Bharat Connect (BBPS) network, provides access to 22,722 billers across 30 categories, including electricity, gas, water, insurance, credit cards, FASTag and loan repayments.

Users can access the service through the ₹ icon in WhatsApp, view upcoming and previous bills, manage multiple accounts and make payments using UPI, debit cards or credit cards. The feature is being rolled out gradually to Android and iOS users across India.

WhatsApp Pushes Deeper Into India’s Digital Economy

The launch expands WhatsApp beyond messaging and commerce into another high-frequency financial activity. The platform already supports services in India such as mobile recharges, metro-ticket purchases and access to government services.

For Meta, integrating recurring payments could increase engagement with WhatsApp’s payments ecosystem and strengthen the app’s position as an everyday digital platform in one of its most important global markets.

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The Investor 09-04-26

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

09-20-26WS News

09-18-26European Investor

09-17-26WS News

09-16-26WS Investor

09-11-26WS News

Copper

Copper Prices Outlook | J.P. Morgan Global Research

Copper prices have been volatile since the start of the Iran conflict, but macroeconomic risks are likely not yet fully priced in.

(jpmorgan.com)

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WS Investor 04-24-26

Iran War Winners #2 and #3: Copper and Nickel - Fat Tail Daily

A sulphur squeeze in the Gulf, Indonesia slashing nickel quotas and an AI data‑centre arms spell big things for nickel and copper prices.

(daily.fattail.com.au)

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WS Investor 04-21-26

Copper’s Bull Market Isn’t Dead — It’s Just on Sale - Fat Tail Daily

The panic is real, but so is the opportunity. Here’s why copper’s long-term bull case remains firmly intact.

(daily.fattail.com.au)

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WS Investor 03-23-26

What Soaring Precious Metals Say About Inflation — And What They Don’t

Gold and silver are soaring, but inflation isn't where many expect. These charts reveal what's really driving prices in early 2026.

(articles.stockcharts.com)

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European Investor 01-27-26

Copper and Zinc: One ASX small cap that is benefitting - Fat Tail Daily

Rio–Glencore chase copper dominance as AI data centres and EVs supercharge demand, while an overlooked zinc play and one Aussie small cap quietly ride the same boom.

(daily.fattail.com.au)

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Global Finance News 01-14-26

Commodities Moving the Chains in Early 2026

Point & Figure charts are showing a breakout in broad commodities with a price target that suggests commodities have room to run. Here's a deep dive into the technical chart patterns that could support the run in commodities.

(articles.stockcharts.com)

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Global Finance News 01-14-26

Reflation Trade or Fed Takeover? - Fat Tail Daily

More commodities start to run as gold and silver explode higher. Small caps are also flying. But are they just playing catch-up to the Magnificent 7? Is it a sign of better growth ahead or just fears that the new US Fed Chairman will lower rates too far? Charlie and Murray assess the state of play as we head into 2026.

(daily.fattail.com.au)

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Global Finance News 01-09-26

Copper Prices Are Forecast to Decline Somewhat from Record Highs in 2026 | Goldman Sachs

Copper prices forecast to decline ...

(goldmansachs.com)

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WS Investor 12-14-25

Retrospective Pt. 2 (Copper) - Fat Tail Daily

copper analysis ....

(daily.fattail.com.au)

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The Investor 12-09-25

Chile’s November copper export revenues fell to 4.282 billion dollars, down from the previous figure of 4.990 billion.

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The Investor 12-09-25

09-20-26WS News

09-16-26European Investor

09-09-26European Investor

09-04-26WS News

08-19-26WS News

US

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WS Investor 09-18-26

U.S. Pending Home Sales Rise 0.3% in August as GDPNow Holds at 5.1%

U.S. pending home sales rose 0.3% month over month in August, beating expectations for a 0.2% decline and rebounding from a 2.6% drop in the previous month.

The stronger reading suggests some stabilization in housing demand despite elevated mortgage rates and ongoing affordability pressures. Pending home sales track signed contracts and are often viewed as a leading indicator for future existing-home sales.

Separately, the Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow model kept its estimate for third-quarter U.S. economic growth unchanged at 5.1%.

Together, the data point to continued resilience in the U.S. economy. Housing demand showed a modest improvement, while the GDPNow estimate continued to signal strong overall growth momentum in the third quarter.

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The Investor 09-17-26

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WS News 09-17-26

U.S. Housing Starts Fall in August While Philadelphia Manufacturing Beats Forecast

U.S. housing activity weakened in August, with housing starts falling 2.6% month over month to an annualized 1.275 million units. The headline figure came below the 1.320 million market forecast, pointing to continued pressure on residential construction.

Building permits, a forward-looking indicator for future construction, came in at 1.394 million, slightly below expectations of 1.400 million.

At the same time, manufacturing data were stronger. The Philadelphia Fed Manufacturing Index registered 37.8 in September, beating the 31.3 consensus estimate, although it slowed from 47.4 previously.

The data present a mixed picture for the U.S. economy: housing remains under pressure from elevated borrowing costs and affordability constraints, while regional manufacturing activity continues to show relatively strong expansion.

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WS News 09-17-26

U.S. Jobless Claims Fall Below Forecast as Labor Market Remains Resilient

U.S. initial jobless claims fell to 196,000 in the latest week, below the 207,000 market forecast and down from 206,000 previously, pointing to continued strength in the labor market.

Continuing claims also declined to 1.730 million, compared with expectations for 1.780 million and a previous reading of 1.769 million. The drop suggests fewer workers remained on unemployment benefits than economists had anticipated.

However, regional employment data showed some cooling. The Philadelphia Fed Employment Index fell to 11.8 in September from 27.9 previously, indicating that hiring momentum in the region slowed despite remaining in positive territory.

Overall, the claims data suggest layoffs remain relatively limited, while the weaker Philadelphia Fed employment reading points to some moderation in labor demand. The combination could reinforce expectations that the Federal Reserve will continue to watch labor-market conditions closely after its latest rate increase.

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WS News 09-17-26

Federal Reserve Raises Interest Rates to 4.00%

The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.00% on Wednesday, matching market expectations and reversing the previous 3.75% rate level.

The increase comes as the Fed confronts renewed inflation pressures, with policymakers balancing persistent price risks against the potential impact of tighter financial conditions on economic growth.

The widely expected move shifts investor attention to the Fed’s policy statement and comments from Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh for clues about the path ahead.

Markets will be particularly focused on whether Warsh signals that additional rate increases may be needed or suggests that policy could remain at 4.00% while officials assess incoming inflation and labor-market data. Warsh is scheduled to hold the post-meeting press conference following today’s FOMC decision.

The decision also puts Treasury yields, the U.S. dollar and rate-sensitive equity sectors in focus as investors reassess expectations for monetary policy through the remainder of 2026.

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WS News 09-16-26

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WS Investor 09-16-26

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The Investor 09-15-26

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WS Investor 09-14-26

Fed rate hike odds surge to 90% on monthly jump in core prices

Markets are now betting on a 90% chance of a rate hike at Wednesday's Fed policy meeting.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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The Investor 09-12-26

09-20-26WS News

09-18-26European Investor

09-17-26The Investor

NASDAQ:AAPL

The latest iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods lineups arrive in stores worldwide - Apple

On Friday, September 18, Apple Store locations around the world introduced customers to the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and AirPods 5.

(apple.com)

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Global Finance News 09-19-26

Apple Rolls Out Siri AI Across Its Software Platforms

Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) has begun rolling out major software updates across its ecosystem, headlined by Siri AI and the next generation of Apple Intelligence.

Siri AI is designed as a more conversational and context-aware assistant, with the ability to understand information across messages, emails and photos, recognize what is displayed on a user’s screen and perform more actions across apps. The beta is initially rolling out in English, with additional languages planned for October.

Apple is also expanding generative AI throughout its products. New capabilities include Write with Siri, AI-powered photo editing and image generation, smarter Safari tab organization and website-change alerts.

The updates are rolling out across iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, watchOS 27, visionOS 27 and tvOS 27. However, Siri AI will initially face regional limitations, including no availability in China while Apple works through regulatory requirements.

The launch represents a major step in Apple’s effort to integrate generative AI more deeply across its hardware and software ecosystem and strengthen its position in the rapidly expanding consumer AI market.

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The Investor 09-15-26

Broadcom and Apple, and the End of Apple’s Run of Squeezing Suppliers? | Chip Stock Investor

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The Investor 09-15-26

Top Stock Market Highlights of the Week: Apple, Qualcomm, Sembcorp Industries and Mapletree Logistics Trust

We look at Apple's shift to a split iPhone launch strategy, a major AI chip partnership, and two corporate developments from Singapore-listed companies.

(thesmartinvestor.com.sg)

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The Investor 09-12-26

Apple unveils iPhone Duo - Apple

Apple today introduced iPhone Duo, the first foldable iPhone.

(apple.com)

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The Investor 09-10-26

Apple Stock in Focus as Rothschild & Co Redburn Upgrades AAPL to Buy, Sets $400 Target

Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) shares are in focus Monday after Rothschild & Co Redburn upgraded the iPhone maker to Buy from Neutral and set a $400 price target.

Analyst Timm Schulze-Melander issued the bullish rating with Apple shares at $305.61, implying approximately 31% upside to the new target.

The upgrade comes as investor attention increasingly shifts toward Apple’s ability to monetize artificial intelligence across its enormous installed device base. Apple remains uniquely positioned within the technology sector because of the combination of its premium hardware ecosystem, high-margin Services business and ability to integrate AI capabilities directly across iPhone, Mac and other devices.

A $400 target also suggests Rothschild & Co Redburn sees room for Apple’s valuation to remain elevated as the company enters its next product and AI cycle.

The rating change is particularly notable because it represents an outright upgrade rather than simply an increase in the price target. Moving from Neutral to Buy signals a materially more constructive view of Apple’s risk-reward profile.

With AAPL trading around $305.61 in the rating report, investors will now watch whether improving expectations around AI monetization, Services growth and the broader Apple ecosystem can provide enough earnings growth to justify the analyst’s $400 target.

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European Investor 08-17-26

Apple Stock Falls After Jefferies Downgrade to Underperform

Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) shares fell about 2.2% Monday after Jefferies Financial Group downgraded the iPhone maker to Underperform from Buy and sharply reduced its price target.

Jefferies analyst Edison Lee lowered the firm's price target on Apple to $263.66 from $285.56. With Apple previously trading around $306.57, the new target implies roughly 14% downside from that level.

Jefferies Turns Bearish on Apple

The downgrade represents a significant shift in Jefferies' view of Apple, moving directly from a bullish Buy recommendation to an Underperform rating rather than stepping down to Neutral.

The substantial reduction in the price target also suggests Jefferies sees Apple's current valuation as difficult to justify relative to its expectations for the company's future earnings and growth.

Monday's approximately 2.2% decline indicates investors are taking the more cautious analyst view seriously, particularly after Apple's recent share-price strength.

Why Is AAPL Stock Down Today?

The Jefferies downgrade appears to be the primary company-specific catalyst behind Monday's decline.

At approximately $306.57 before the move, Apple was trading more than $40 above Jefferies' new $263.66 target. That valuation gap provides a clear explanation for the market's negative reaction.

The downgrade also comes as investors continue to assess Apple's position in artificial intelligence and whether its AI strategy can generate sufficient new revenue and device demand to support its premium valuation.

For now, the combination of a two-notch downgrade and a substantially lower price target is putting pressure on AAPL shares, with investors likely to watch whether other Wall Street analysts become more cautious on Apple's valuation and AI-driven growth expectations.

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European Investor 08-10-26

Apple Stock Drops 7% Despite Record Q3 Results as Weak Outlook Overshadows Earnings Beat

Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) shares fell 7% in premarket trading on Friday after the company reported record fiscal third-quarter results but issued a softer-than-expected outlook for the current quarter, disappointing investors following a strong run in the stock.

Apple posted record June-quarter revenue of $109.4 billion, up 16% year over year, while diluted earnings per share climbed 29% to $2.02. The company reported record June-quarter revenue from the iPhone, Mac and Services segments, with double-digit revenue growth across every geographic region. Gross margin reached 50.1%, although results benefited from approximately two percentage points of tariff refunds, which also added $0.11 to earnings per share.

Record iPhone Sales Offset by Softer Outlook

The June quarter reflected broad-based strength across Apple's product lineup. CEO Tim Cook highlighted record revenue and an all-time high installed base of active devices, while the company also introduced its new Siri AI platform at WWDC26.

However, investors focused on Apple's outlook for the September quarter. Management projected revenue growth of 9% to 11%, below Wall Street expectations of roughly 12%, citing supply constraints for advanced chips and foreign exchange headwinds. Services revenue also fell short of analyst estimates despite growing 12%, adding to concerns about the segment's momentum.

Tariff Benefit and Supply Constraints Draw Attention

While Apple delivered another record quarter, investors also noted that earnings received a one-time boost from tariff refunds. Excluding that benefit, gross margins would have been closer to market expectations, reducing the magnitude of the earnings beat. At the same time, persistent supply chain constraints are expected to limit growth in the coming quarter despite healthy underlying demand.

What to Watch

The sharp premarket decline suggests investors are looking beyond Apple's record June-quarter performance and focusing on slower-than-expected near-term growth. Markets will closely monitor supply chain conditions, adoption of Apple's new AI features, Services revenue growth and demand for the upcoming iPhone lineup as key drivers of the stock in the months ahead.

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Global Finance News 07-31-26

Apple (AAPL) Stock Rises After Citigroup Raises Price Target to $365

Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) shares gained approximately 1.2% after Citigroup reiterated its Buy rating and raised its price target to $365 from $315.

The higher target comes as investors remain focused on Apple’s ability to expand its artificial intelligence capabilities, strengthen its services ecosystem, and support long-term revenue growth through new product cycles.

Citigroup’s rating action reflects a more constructive valuation outlook, while the unchanged Buy recommendation signals continued confidence in the company’s broader earnings potential.

Apple continues to benefit from its large installed device base, recurring services revenue, and strong cash generation. At the same time, investor expectations remain high around future AI integration across the iPhone, Mac, and other products.

Several factors supported the stock:

* Citigroup raised its price target to $365 from $315.
* The firm maintained its Buy rating.
* Investors remain optimistic about Apple’s AI strategy and services growth.
* The company’s ecosystem and recurring revenue base continue to support its long-term outlook.

The positive analyst update helped strengthen investor sentiment, lifting Apple shares during the session.

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WS Investor 07-13-26

Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) rose 1.5% on Friday, recovering some of Thursday's losses after Morgan Stanley reiterated its Overweight rating, reaffirming confidence in the company's long-term growth outlook.

Apple shares came under pressure on Thursday after the company announced price increases for select products, as investors weighed the potential impact of higher prices on consumer demand. However, Friday's rebound suggests the market has become more optimistic that Apple's pricing power will help offset rising component costs and protect profit margins.

Morgan Stanley maintained its bullish stance, highlighting Apple's resilient ecosystem, expanding high-margin services business, and continued opportunities tied to AI-enabled devices and future hardware upgrades. The firm believes the company's strong brand loyalty positions it well to implement price increases without significantly hurting demand.

The combination of renewed analyst support and confidence in Apple's ability to preserve profitability helped lift investor sentiment, allowing the stock to recover part of the previous session's decline.

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Global Finance News 06-26-26

09-20-26WS News

09-11-26The Investor

09-10-26WS News

NYSE:BRK.B

Warren Buffett Becomes Berkshire Hathaway Chairman Emeritus as Howard Buffett Takes Chair Role

Berkshire Hathaway announced a major leadership transition Friday, naming Warren E. Buffett Chairman Emeritus while keeping him on the company’s board of directors. Howard G. Buffett, Warren Buffett’s son and a Berkshire director since 1993, was elected Chairman of the Board, while Susan Decker will remain Lead Independent Director.

The change separates Berkshire’s board leadership from day-to-day management. Greg Abel remains Chief Executive Officer and continues to run the company, while Howard Buffett will focus on preserving Berkshire’s culture and long-standing shareholder-oriented principles. In his shareholder letter, Warren Buffett said Abel has fully taken hold of the CEO role and that the timing was right to complete the transition.

Warren Buffett, who has led Berkshire for more than six decades, will continue to provide judgment and perspective as a director. The company described the move as consistent with its long-established succession planning. Berkshire’s 2026 filings already listed Greg Abel as President and CEO, with Warren Buffett serving as Chairman before Friday’s change.

Howard Buffett brings more than three decades of experience on Berkshire’s board and has served since 1999 as Chairman and CEO of the Howard G. Buffett Foundation.

The transition marks another major step in Berkshire’s post-Warren Buffett era, but the structure is designed to preserve continuity: Abel remains responsible for operations and capital allocation, Howard Buffett takes the board chairmanship, and Warren Buffett remains involved as Chairman Emeritus and director.

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Global Finance News 09-19-26

Taylor Morrison Soars 22% After Berkshire Hathaway Agrees to $8.5 Billion Acquisition

Shares of Taylor Morrison Home Corporation (NYSE: TMHC) surged 22% on Monday after the company announced that Berkshire Hathaway has agreed to acquire the homebuilder in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $8.5 billion, marking one of the largest deals in the U.S. homebuilding sector in recent years. Source: Taylor Morrison Press Release, May 31, 2026.

Under the terms of the agreement, Berkshire Hathaway will pay $72.50 per share in cash for Taylor Morrison, representing a 24% premium to the company's May 29 closing price of $58.50. The transaction values Taylor Morrison's equity at approximately $6.8 billion and its enterprise value at roughly $8.5 billion. Source: Taylor Morrison Press Release, May 31, 2026.

The acquisition reflects Berkshire Hathaway's growing commitment to the U.S. housing market. Berkshire already owns major housing-related businesses, including Clayton Homes and numerous building products companies. Berkshire CEO Greg Abel described Taylor Morrison as a "best-in-class national homebuilder" and said the acquisition aligns with Berkshire's long-standing focus on housing and homeownership. Source: Taylor Morrison Press Release, May 31, 2026.

Investors welcomed the deal because it delivers immediate value and certainty to shareholders at a substantial premium. The purchase price effectively places a floor under the stock while reflecting Berkshire's confidence in the long-term outlook for U.S. housing despite elevated mortgage rates and economic uncertainty.

Taylor Morrison has grown into one of the largest homebuilders in the United States, operating more than 350 communities across 21 markets in 12 states. The company serves a broad range of customers through its Taylor Morrison and Esplanade brands and has expanded into build-to-rent communities through its Yardly platform. It also operates mortgage, title, escrow, and insurance businesses that complement its homebuilding operations. Source: Taylor Morrison Press Release, May 31, 2026.

Taylor Morrison Chairman and CEO Sheryl Palmer called the transaction a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," emphasizing that Berkshire's capital strength and long-term investment approach would allow the company to pursue growth opportunities that may not have been possible as a standalone public company. Importantly for investors and employees, Taylor Morrison's existing management team is expected to remain in place following the acquisition. Source: Taylor Morrison Press Release, May 31, 2026.

The deal also signals Berkshire Hathaway's continued willingness to deploy capital into sectors tied to long-term demographic and economic trends. While many investors associate Berkshire with insurance, railroads, and consumer brands, the company has steadily built a significant presence in residential housing. The addition of Taylor Morrison strengthens that position and creates the potential for greater coordination across Berkshire's existing homebuilding and construction-related businesses.

The transaction is expected to close during the second half of 2026, subject to shareholder approval and customary regulatory clearances. Once completed, Taylor Morrison will become a private company and its shares will no longer trade on the New York Stock Exchange. Source: Taylor Morrison Press Release, May 31, 2026.

For investors, the sharp rally reflects the market's assessment that Berkshire's offer provides an attractive exit price while validating the strength of Taylor Morrison's business model and long-term growth prospects.

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Global Finance News 06-02-26

The 'cash they have is excessive': Warren Buffett's exit puts spotlight on Berkshire Hathaway's next move

Warren Buffett has officially stepped down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. Investors are focused on what happens to the company's growing cash pile.

(finance.yahoo.com)

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WS News 01-04-26

VantagePoint Vantagepoint A.I. Hot Stocks Outlook for November 14, 2025 Stocks $ACHC, $HD, $LLY, $CLSK, $QQQ, $BRK/B

Hot stocks of the week ...

(vantagepointsoftware.com)

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The Investor 11-15-25

Berkshire Hathaway – Q3 2025 Earnings Rise to $30.8 Billion on Strong Operating Results

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE: BRK.A, BRK.B) reported third-quarter 2025 net earnings of $30.8 billion, up from $26.3 billion a year earlier, driven by higher operating income and investment gains.

Operating earnings rose 34% year over year to $13.5 billion from $10.1 billion in Q3 2024, reflecting solid performances across insurance, rail, utilities, and manufacturing.
• Insurance underwriting income surged to $2.4 billion (up from $750 million).
• BNSF Railway earned $1.45 billion (up from $1.38 billion).
• Manufacturing, service, and retailing operations delivered $3.6 billion, up from $3.3 billion.
•
Investment gains totaled $17.3 billion, including $9.2 billion in unrealized gains.
For the first nine months of 2025, net earnings were $47.8 billion, compared with $69.3 billion in the same period last year, when results were inflated by large unrealized gains.

Insurance float stood at $176 billion as of September 30, 2025, up $5 billion since year-end 2024.

Berkshire emphasized that quarterly investment gains or losses can be “meaningless” for assessing performance, highlighting operating earnings as the best indicator of underlying business strength.

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Global Finance News 11-03-25

4 US Blue-Chips With Fortress Balance Sheets - The Smart Investor

4 US blue chips with ....

(thesmartinvestor.com.sg)

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The Investor 10-15-25

Berkshire Hathaway Separates Chairman and CEO Roles Ahead of Leadership Transition

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE: BRK.A; BRK.B) announced that its board has amended and restated the company’s by-laws, effective September 30, 2025, to formally separate the roles of Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. The change comes in preparation for the transition on January 1, 2026, when Greg Abel will assume the role of President and CEO, succeeding Warren Buffett.

Buffett will remain Chairman of the Board, ensuring continuity of leadership, while Abel takes over day-to-day operations as CEO. The updated by-laws introduced a new provision under Section 3 for the Board of Directors and revised Section 4 relating to officers and agents to reflect the division of responsibilities.

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The Investor 10-03-25

Berkshire Hathaway announced it will acquire Occidental Petroleum’s chemical business, OxyChem, in a $9.7 billion all-cash deal. The agreement, unveiled on October 2, 2025, will make OxyChem an operating subsidiary of Berkshire, expanding its portfolio with a leading global manufacturer of commodity chemicals used in water treatment, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and construction.

Occidental said it will use $6.5 billion of the proceeds to reduce debt, aiming to bring principal debt below $15 billion following its CrownRock acquisition. OxyChem’s environmental liabilities will remain with an Occidental subsidiary, which will continue to manage related remedial projects.

The transaction, subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025. Occidental CEO Vicki Hollub praised the deal as strengthening the company’s financial position and long-term oil and gas strategy, while Berkshire’s Greg Abel highlighted the strong operating assets and workforce OxyChem brings to Berkshire’s non-insurance operations.

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WS Investor 10-02-25

Berkshire Hathaway Q2 Net Earnings Fall Amid Investment Swings; Operating Profit Stable

Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.A, BRK.B) reported Q2 2025 net earnings of $12.4 billion, down sharply from $30.3 billion a year earlier, primarily due to lower investment gains and a $3.8 billion impairment on Kraft Heinz. However, operating earnings, which exclude market swings, held steady at $11.2 billion, versus $11.6 billion last year.

Key Figures:
• Net EPS: $8,601 for Class A; $5.73 for Class B
• Operating earnings: $11.2B in Q2; $20.8B in H1 2025 vs. $22.8B in H1 2024
• Insurance investment income rose to $3.37B
• BNSF railroad and energy businesses posted moderate gains
• Foreign currency losses totaled $877M in Q2

Investment results were volatile: Q2 included $4.2B in realized gains and $1.5B in unrealized gains, but H1 2025 saw a $5.9B net unrealized loss. Berkshire emphasized that investment fluctuations make net income less reflective of actual business performance.

Insurance float reached $174 billion, up $3B since year-end 2024.
Berkshire urged investors to consult its full 10-Q filing for deeper analysis.

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European Investor 08-05-25

Berkshire after Buffett: Can Greg Abel rise to the challenge?

The transition from Warren Buffett to Greg Abel represents less a reinvention than an evolution for Berkshire Hathaway.

(fifthperson.com)

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Global Finance News 05-27-25

09-20-26WS News

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China

China Holds Five-Year Loan Prime Rate at 3.50% in September

China kept its five-year Loan Prime Rate (LPR) unchanged at 3.50% in September, matching market the previous month’s level.

The decision signals that Chinese policymakers are maintaining current borrowing-cost settings despite continued concerns about economic momentum and the property sector.

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WS News 09-20-26

China Industrial Production Beats Forecasts as Investment Weakness Deepens

China’s economic data for August painted a mixed picture, with stronger industrial activity offset by weaker investment and a slight rise in unemployment.

Industrial production increased 5.2% year over year, beating the 4.8% forecast and accelerating from 4.5% previously. The stronger reading suggests China’s manufacturing and industrial sectors maintained momentum despite broader economic pressures.

However, fixed asset investment fell 7.2% year over year, slightly worse than the expected 7.1% decline and deeper than the previous 6.7% contraction. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate edged up to 5.3% from 5.2%, also above expectations.

The figures highlight an uneven Chinese recovery, with industrial strength contrasting with persistent weakness in investment and the labor market.

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WS News 09-15-26

China’s New Loans Rebound to 60 Billion Yuan in August but Miss Forecasts

China’s banks extended 60 billion yuan in new loans in August, rebounding from a 340 billion yuan contraction in the previous period but falling well short of market expectations for 480 billion yuan.

The weaker-than-expected lending figure points to continued softness in credit demand despite the return to positive loan growth.

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WS Investor 09-14-26

China Inflation Accelerates in August as Energy Costs Push Producer Prices Higher

China’s inflation picked up in August, with consumer prices rising faster and producer inflation exceeding expectations as higher energy and commodity costs fed through the economy.

The consumer price index rose 0.8% year over year, matching expectations but accelerating from 0.5% in July. On a monthly basis, CPI increased 0.4%, above the 0.3% forecast and reversing July’s 0.1% decline.

Producer prices showed a stronger-than-expected increase. China’s PPI rose 3.8% year over year, above the 3.6% forecast and up from 3.5% in July. Higher international crude oil was among the main drivers, with energy costs elevated by supply concerns surrounding the Middle East conflict.

The figures suggest external cost pressures are lifting Chinese inflation, although underlying domestic demand remains relatively weak. With Brent crude trading around $100 amid escalating Middle East supply risks, energy prices could remain an important source of inflation pressure for China in the coming months.

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European Investor 09-09-26

China’s Trade Surplus Widens to $119.09 Billion as Exports Rise 25%

China’s trade surplus came in slightly above expectations in August as exports maintained strong growth while imports increased less than economists had forecast.

Exports rose 25.0% year over year, matching the consensus estimate and accelerating from 23.9% previously.

Imports increased 28.2%, up from the previous 27.5% gain but below expectations for 30.0% growth. Despite the miss, the strong increase suggests domestic demand for foreign goods remained robust.

China recorded a $119.09 billion trade surplus, slightly above the $118.60 billion forecast.

The figures show that China’s external trade remained resilient in August, with export growth accelerating and the trade surplus exceeding expectations. However, the weaker-than-forecast import reading provides a more mixed signal about the strength of domestic demand.

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WS News 09-08-26

China Services PMI Rises to 51.4 in August, Beating Expectations

China’s services sector expanded at a faster pace in August, with the RatingDog Services PMI rising to 51.4 from 50.4 in the previous month.

The reading came comfortably above market expectations of 50.6 and remained above the 50-point threshold separating expansion from contraction. The improvement suggests that activity in China’s services economy gained momentum during August.

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WS News 09-03-26

China Manufacturing PMI Rises to 51.5 as Factory Activity Strengthens

China’s manufacturing sector expanded at a faster pace in August, providing a positive signal for the world’s second-largest economy as factory demand, production and exports improved.

The RatingDog China General Manufacturing PMI, compiled by S&P Global, rose to 51.5 from 50.9 in July, beating expectations of 51.0. A reading above 50 indicates expansion.

Factory output increased at the fastest pace in three months, supported by stronger demand and additional production capacity. New orders also accelerated, while new export business recorded its strongest increase in six months.

Overall, the RatingDog data are moderately positive for China’s growth outlook and could support sentiment toward Chinese equities and industrial commodities, although weak domestic demand and persistent pricing pressure remain important risks.

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European Investor 09-01-26

China’s Manufacturing PMI Improves in August, but Broader Economy Remains in Contraction

China’s manufacturing activity improved more than expected in August, but the latest PMI data showed that the broader economy remained below the key 50-point threshold separating expansion from contraction.

The official Manufacturing PMI rose to 49.8 from 49.2 in July, beating market expectations of 49.5. The improvement brought the factory sector close to stabilization, although the sub-50 reading indicates manufacturing activity continued to contract.

The picture was weaker in services and other non-manufacturing industries. China’s Non-Manufacturing PMI remained at 49.0, below the 49.5 forecast and unchanged from the previous month.

Meanwhile, the Composite PMI edged up to 49.5 from 49.3. Despite the improvement, it also remained in contraction territory.

Overall, the August figures suggest that conditions in Chinese manufacturing are improving, but weakness in the services side of the economy continues to constrain the recovery. The mixed data could maintain pressure on Chinese policymakers to provide additional support for domestic demand and economic activity.

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WS News 08-31-26

China Holds Five-Year Loan Prime Rate at 3.50% in August

China kept its five-year Loan Prime Rate (LPR) unchanged at 3.50% in August, matching both market expectations and the previous month’s level.

The decision signals that Chinese policymakers are maintaining current borrowing-cost settings despite continued concerns about economic momentum and the property sector.

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WS News 08-20-26

China’s Economy Loses Momentum in July as Industrial Output and Investment Weaken

China’s economy showed further signs of losing momentum in July, with industrial production slowing, unemployment rising and fixed-asset investment contracting more sharply than expected.

Industrial production increased 4.5% year-over-year in July, below the 5.0% forecast and slowing from 5.3% in June. Industrial output for the January-July period was up 5.3% from a year earlier.

The unemployment rate increased to 5.2% from 5.0%, exceeding expectations of 5.1%. Meanwhile, fixed-asset investment fell 6.7% year-over-year in the first seven months of 2026, worsening from the previous 5.7% decline and exceeding expectations for a 6.2% contraction. The property sector remained a major drag, with real-estate development investment falling 19.2%.

The weaker figures add to evidence that China’s recovery remains uneven, with subdued domestic demand and the prolonged property downturn weighing on activity despite strength in exports and technology-related sectors. The slowdown could increase pressure on Beijing to provide additional policy support during the second half of the year.

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Global Finance News 08-17-26

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05-08-26Global Finance News

KRX:005930

Samsung Electronics announced the global launch of its new 32-inch Spatial Signage display, expanding its glasses-free 3D commercial display lineup.

The compact model is designed for retail shelves and counters, enabling immersive 3D product presentations using Samsung’s proprietary technology that delivers a 360-degree viewing experience without the need for glasses.

Alongside the hardware launch, Samsung introduced updates to its cloud-based signage platform, Samsung VXT, including AI-powered content creation tools, improved scheduling, and enhanced remote management capabilities to streamline multi-location display operations.

The new 32-inch model follows the earlier rollout of the 85-inch version and will be introduced globally throughout 2026, targeting a wide range of sectors such as retail, education, and hospitality.

Source: Samsung Electronics

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The Investor 04-28-26

Samsung Electronics announced the launch of a new “Trips” feature within Samsung Wallet, aimed at helping Galaxy users manage travel plans in a single, organized interface.

The feature consolidates travel-related items such as flight bookings, hotel reservations, transport tickets, and event passes into a unified timeline view, allowing users to access key trip details more efficiently. It also supports manual additions and notes, enabling users to customize and track their itineraries.

Trips is designed to reduce fragmentation across apps and confirmations, enhancing the overall travel experience while maintaining security through Samsung Knox encryption and biometric protection.

The feature will be available starting April 2026 on compatible Samsung Galaxy devices in Korea, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Source: Samsung Electronics

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European Investor 04-27-26

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., in collaboration with POSTECH, announced a breakthrough in next-generation display technology with a switchable 2D/3D display system.

Published in *Nature*, the research introduces a metasurface-based lenticular lens that enables seamless switching between high-resolution 2D and glasses-free 3D viewing within a single device. The technology uses nanoscale “metalens” structures and polarization control to dynamically adjust optical properties.

Key advancements include an ultra-thin design of just 1.2 mm and a significantly wider viewing angle of up to 100 degrees—more than six times wider than conventional systems. The prototype has also been successfully tested on OLED panels, indicating strong potential for commercialization in smartphones, tablets, and other display applications.

The development represents a major step forward in meta-optics and immersive display technologies, with applications across entertainment, augmented reality, and medical imaging.

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WS Investor 04-23-26

Samsung announced an expansion of its SmartThings ecosystem through enhanced integration with IKEA’s new Matter-enabled smart home devices, aiming to simplify and lower the cost of building connected homes. The update allows 25 IKEA devices—including smart bulbs, sensors, and plugs—to connect directly to the SmartThings platform without requiring multiple hubs.

The integration enables users to control and automate devices more easily, including monitoring home activity, optimizing indoor environments, and receiving real-time alerts for events such as water leaks. SmartThings also provides data-driven insights, such as recommendations for improving sleep conditions based on temperature and air quality readings.

Samsung highlighted improved user experience features, including a scroll wheel remote for precise control of lighting and other devices. The company also emphasized its early adoption of Thread technology, which enhances connectivity across different brands within the Matter ecosystem.

The company said the partnership reinforces its strategy to expand a seamless, interoperable smart home platform accessible to a wider range of consumers.

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The Investor 04-21-26

Samsung Electronics unveiled its “Design Is an Act of Love” exhibition at Milan Design Week 2026, presenting its evolving vision of human-centered design across 12 immersive zones.

The exhibition, held at Superstudio Più in Milan from April 20–26, showcases more than 120 products and concepts, exploring how design can better reflect diverse lifestyles and everyday human experiences. It emphasizes Samsung’s shift toward integrating design with real-life behaviors rather than focusing solely on product functionality.

A central theme is the company’s human-centric AI approach, expressed as AI × (EI + HI), combining artificial intelligence with emotional and human intelligence to create more meaningful and personalized experiences.

Key highlights include explorations of foldable Galaxy devices, AI-connected living environments, transparent display and audio technologies, and large-format Micro RGB displays, alongside concepts for AI-driven storytelling and immersive home experiences.

Overall, the exhibition reflects Samsung’s long-term strategy to position design as a core driver of innovation, focusing on emotional connection, personalization, and the integration of AI into everyday life.

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European Investor 04-20-26

Samsung Electronics unveiled a new 14-meter version of its Onyx cinema LED display at CinemaCon 2026, expanding its footprint in premium large-format theaters.

The new model is designed for larger auditoriums and delivers the same core performance as existing 5-meter and 10-meter versions, including 4K resolution, high brightness, and enhanced contrast. It also supports flexible scaling up to 20 meters, allowing cinemas to create larger, more immersive viewing environments.

Samsung highlighted that the Onyx platform offers significantly higher brightness—up to six times that of conventional projection systems—along with true black levels and 100% color volume, positioning it as a premium alternative to traditional cinema projection.

The company also noted growing global adoption, with installations across Europe and the U.S., as cinema operators increasingly invest in differentiated, high-end experiences to attract audiences.

Overall, the launch strengthens Samsung’s leadership in cinema LED technology, targeting the expanding premium theater segment and broader use cases such as live events and gaming.

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WS Investor 04-14-26

Samsung Electronics introduced its new APV (Advanced Professional Video) codec on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, aimed at enabling high-quality mobile video production.

The open-source codec improves compression efficiency while preserving image quality during editing, reducing file size by over 10% and minimizing degradation across multiple edits.

Samsung said the technology is designed to support professional-grade video workflows on mobile devices, expanding capabilities for creators and everyday users.

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The Investor 04-09-26

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced a major software update for its Galaxy XR platform, adding enterprise capabilities and enhanced user features.

The update introduces support for Android Enterprise, enabling businesses to deploy and manage XR devices at scale with advanced security, device control, and application management through Samsung Knox. The company said the move positions Galaxy XR for use in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and training.

In addition, the update includes usability improvements such as enhanced virtual keyboard positioning, session restore functionality, expanded accessibility features, and immersive content capabilities.

Samsung also confirmed that Galaxy XR devices will receive up to five years of software and security updates, reinforcing its focus on long-term platform reliability and enterprise adoption.

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Global Finance News 04-08-26

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced its preliminary earnings guidance for the first quarter of 2026, signaling a sharp improvement in profitability.

The company expects consolidated sales of approximately 133 trillion won and operating profit of around 57.2 trillion won, based on K-IFRS standards. This compares with operating profit of 20.07 trillion won in the fourth quarter of 2025 and 6.69 trillion won in the first quarter of 2025.

Samsung noted that the figures represent the midpoint of internal estimate ranges, in line with Korean disclosure rules. The strong outlook points to a significant rebound in earnings, likely driven by improved conditions in key segments such as semiconductors and electronics.

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The Investor 04-07-26

Samsung Electronics has retained its position as the world’s leading gaming monitor brand for the seventh consecutive year, according to data from International Data Corporation.

The company held an 18.9% share of the global gaming monitor market by revenue in 2025, while also maintaining the top position in the OLED gaming monitor segment for the third straight year with a 26% market share.

Samsung attributed its continued leadership to innovation in high-performance displays and strategic partnerships within the gaming industry, including collaborations with esports figures such as Lee Sang-hyeok.

The company recently showcased its latest Odyssey gaming monitor lineup at Game Developers Conference 2026 in San Francisco, featuring technologies such as glasses-free 3D, HDR10+ Gaming, and ultra-high refresh rates. New models include a 6K gaming monitor, a 240Hz OLED display, and a 1,040Hz esports-focused monitor.

Samsung stated it aims to further expand platform compatibility and gaming ecosystems as part of its strategy to sustain leadership in the global gaming display market.

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Global Finance News 04-02-26

09-20-26WS News

09-16-26European Investor

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06-29-26European Investor

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