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Market Summary

U.S. markets hit record highs ahead of the Fed’s widely expected first 2025 rate cut, with Nasdaq on track for its tenth straight gain. Tech shares led gains while bond yields slipped. Investors remain cautious on trade and inflation dynamics as geopolitical risks persist.

The Biden administration faces ongoing scrutiny over the investigation of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, with FBI Director Kash Patel defending the agency amid political tensions and calls for accountability from both sides.

Figure of the Day

4.613% – Yield on $12.9 billion US 19-year bond auction signaling market interest.

President Donald Trump pursued legal action against The New York Times over accusations of defamation linked to his campaign, while also pushing to end quarterly earnings reports, stirring debate over corporate transparency.

Tesla faces multiple safety probes into its 2021 Model Y door handles amid reports of children being trapped inside, triggering federal investigations that could impact the EV maker’s market confidence.

Bullish

BlackRock Boosts Leadership Amid Market Shifts

BlackRock solidifies its global executive ranks by adding 20 key leaders, enhancing strategic capacity amidst evolving asset management challenges.
More on ft.com

The US and China approach a resolution on the future ownership and operation of TikTok in the United States, with deadlines extended and framework deals involving major tech firms like Oracle.

The Federal Reserve is poised to cut interest rates amid political pressure and economic uncertainty, as markets react with volatility and investors anticipate the end of the ‘higher-for-longer’ rate era.

Bearish

Tesla Door Handle Flaws Spark Federal Safety Probe

Tesla faces regulatory scrutiny as safety issues emerge with 2021 Model Y door handles potentially trapping children, threatening brand trust and sales momentum.
More on abcnews.go.com

Rivian breaks ground on a $5 billion electric vehicle plant in Georgia, signaling commitment to US manufacturing despite current market headwinds in the EV industry.

Strong US retail sales continue despite tariff-driven cost pressures, with consumers spending more backed by back-to-school shopping and sustained economic activity.

Regulatory Impact

US extends TikTok divestment deadline to December 16; Federal appeals court blocks Trump’s attempt to remove Fed governor Lisa Cook ahead of key rate vote.

Google announces a major £5 billion investment in the UK to accelerate AI research and development ahead of President Trump’s UK visit, reflecting a push to expand AI-driven economic growth.

The Israeli military launches a full ground offensive into Gaza City, escalating conflict with Hamas and further diminishing prospects for a ceasefire amid international condemnation and growing humanitarian concerns.

Quote

The ‘original sin’ in the Epstein case was how it was handled initially, not the investigation itself.

— FBI Director Kash Patel

BlackRock reshapes leadership with key additions to its global executive committee, aiming to strengthen its position amid shifting asset management dynamics.

Senate Republicans confirm Stephen Miran to the Federal Reserve Board amid controversy surrounding attempts to remove Governor Lisa Cook, maintaining a political edge in the central bank ahead of critical rate decisions.

Eli Lilly announces a $5 billion investment in a Virginia manufacturing plant to boost domestic production of targeted cancer drugs and weight-loss therapies, responding to geopolitical pressures and pharma tariff threats.

Spotify and streaming platforms expand monetization features and creator tools, leveraging AI to enhance content creation, audience engagement, and new ad revenues.

Binance nears a deal with the DOJ to end its independent compliance monitor, marking a key milestone following the $4.3 billion settlement over alleged money-laundering and sanctions violations.

The US Treasury sells $12.9 billion in long-term bonds with yields at 4.613%, indicating investor demand as markets await Federal Reserve policy direction.

Met Gala campaigners and regulators push back on controversial activists’ social media posts related to political violence, leading to swift employer actions and broader debates on speech and expression.

Nvidia experiences mixed demand for its RTX6000D AI chip in China, with some tech giants hesitant over its price and performance, amidst intense competition in the AI hardware market.

The US housing market faces challenges with builders increasing price cuts to historic levels, hoping for Federal Reserve rate cuts to stimulate demand amid ongoing market stagnation.

Apple positions itself as a leader in the AI hardware revolution, poised to benefit significantly from advancements and recent technology launches, according to analysts.

Senators in the US continue intense examinations of FBI Director Kash Patel’s leadership with confrontations in testimony sessions, reflecting deep partisan divides over agency oversight.

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