Market Summary
U.S. markets recovered on Friday with the S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq closing higher, snapping a three-day losing streak after inflation data aligned with expectations. Tech stocks rallied notably on AI optimism while tariff-related uncertainties caused some sector-specific volatility. Investors remain wary ahead of government shutdown risks and Fed policy signals.
Amazon settles FTC lawsuit over deceptive Prime enrollment, agreeing to pay $2.5 billion. This includes a detailed payout plan for affected US consumers, marking a significant consumer protection case.
Figure of the Day
100% – Tariffs imposed by U.S. on imported patented pharmaceutical drugs starting October 1
President Trump announces sweeping new tariffs hitting pharmaceuticals, heavy trucks, and furniture imports, sparking fears of increased prices and trade conflicts.
Electronic Arts nears a colossal $50 billion take-private deal involving major investors, driving a surge in its stock and representing one of the largest leveraged buyouts planned.
Bullish
Costco Beat Earnings Expectations, Showing Fastest Growth in Key Areas
Costco Wholesale Corp. surpassed revenue predictions with strong growth in several segments, positioning itself well amid changing consumer spending habits.
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Supreme Court makes rulings aiding the Trump administration, including allowing the freeze of $4 billion in foreign aid and granting other emergency docket wins, with political and fiscal impact.
Federal indictment targets former FBI Director James Comey, escalating political tensions and leading to presidential promises of additional prosecutions against opponents.
Bearish
Federal Indictment Hits Former FBI Director James Comey, Escalating Political Turmoil
James Comey faces federal charges of obstruction and false statements, escalating tensions in US politics and raising concerns over law enforcement independence.
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US and China soybean trade wars intensify as China blocks US imports, squeezing American farmers amid tariff disputes and rising stocks.
Microsoft suspends Israeli military’s access to cloud AI services following allegations over mass surveillance activities, highlighting tech and geopolitical tensions.
Regulatory Impact
Trump administration announces sweeping new tariffs including 100% on pharmaceuticals and 25% on heavy trucks, alongside regulatory moves such as suspension of military AI cloud services and tightened commercial driver license rules for non-citizens.
Silicon Valley embraces AI with senior employees undertaking AI training courses, signaling growing corporate investment in artificial intelligence skills amid the tech boom.
Walmart faces a listeria-linked meatball pasta meal recall following federal health warnings, marking a serious food safety alert with potential nationwide impact.
Quote
There will be others — corrupt, radical left Democrats — and the Department of Justice will get to them.
— President Donald Trump
Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show abruptly removed and then restored on Sinclair and Nexstar ABC stations after backlash, reflecting local broadcasting power struggles.
Oracle faces its first cash flow negative year since 1992 as it ramps up spending to support massive cloud infrastructure deals, raising concerns among investors.
Pentagon’s weapons testing office gutted, raising concerns over troop equipment oversight and program risks, including the Army’s new XM7 rifle program.
Japanese power and gas suppliers set for rate hikes after government subsidy ends, signaling higher energy costs for consumers starting October.
US government shutdown looms amid failed negotiations, threatening federal operations and raising political stakes ahead of October 1 deadline.
Amazon quietly builds a $35 billion business segment focused on supplying companies with operational essentials, transforming corporate procurement.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang projects OpenAI as a multi-trillion-dollar company, underscoring the massive market impact expected from AI advancements and chip demand.
Kraken crypto exchange seeks $200-$300 million funding at $20 billion valuation ahead of IPO plans, signaling strong investor interest despite market volatility.
Fed officials urge cautious optimism as PCE inflation data bolsters outlook for rate cuts, but labor market and consumer spending remain key risks for policy decisions.
US Supreme Court hears cases involving Trump’s firing of Fed Governor Lisa Cook amid DOJ arguments minimizing market impact; legal battles intensify over politicization.