Influencer Bridget Levine created a unique birthday cake using watermelon and whipped bone marrow for her baby daughter
Levine said she prioritizes nutrient-dense foods for her children, with no refined sugar or flour
The mom of two also uses food-based remedies, like bone marrow lollipops and boiled steak, for teething and mild symptoms
Influencer Bridget Levine doesn't do standard cakes when it comes to her children's birthdays.
The content creator and mom of two shares her motherhood journey on her Instagram, bridgetmlevine, and in a post shared in September, Levine revealed why she "refused" to make her youngest child a conventional cake, instead opting for one with just two ingredients.

#bridget #Instagram

Few eras have captivated pop culture quite like the 90s, a decade forever marked by its unforgettable girl crushes whose charm, talent, and trailblazing style continue to resonate with fans today. From chart-topping singers to silver screen icons, these women defined a generation and helped pave the way for many who followed. Dive in as we celebrate the dazzling stars whose presence on stage, screen, and red carpets made them the ultimate icons for fans everywhere.
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA
Mariah Carey's soaring vocals and unmistakable style set the tone for '90s pop music domination. Known for her powerhouse ballads and shimmering stage presence, she inspired millions by blending vulnerability with fierce confidence. Whether on the charts or dazzling at glamorous events, Carey remains a symbol of resilience and classic diva allure. She made history as the first artist to land a number one single on the Billboard Hot 100 every year for an entire decade, per Britannica.
KCS Presse / MEGA
Pamela Anderson, a celebrated television star and model, transformed the pop culture landscape with her iconic roles and boundary-pushing style. Her dynamic career and enduring activism prove she's more than a screen siren — she's a force for change and self-empowerment. After joining the cast of Baywatch, the show became the most-watched series with over 1.1 billion viewers weekly, according to IMDb.

#culture #icons

Following Paris Fashion Week, where Rosalía was spotted front row at Dior and served up several street-style moments, the singer was back in New York, just weeks after wrapping her Lux Tour.
TheStewartofNY/GC Images
I'm sure this Erdem Spring 2027 dress needs no introduction after Sienna Miller and Troye Sivan wore similar versions to the War New York premiere and the VMAs, respectively.
What you will immediately notice is that, like Sienna's, Rosalía's dress fits closer to the body than the version we saw on the runway. I prefer this fit, as the shape feels better defined.
What I find most intriguing is how naturally this look connects to her Lux Tour wardrobe. The soft peach satin, corsage and sweeping feathers have a romantic quality that fits naturally alongside the more dramatic pieces she wore on stage, even though this is a street-style look rather than a performance costume. It also continues the ballet-inspired thread we saw with her Yasmina Atta look in June.

#york #street

Sophie Okonedo is one of my favourite celebrities, so I was delighted to see her back on the red carpet for the Clarissa press tour. However, while looking back at her appearances today, I realised that I completely missed her at the film's Cannes Film Festival premiere. So that is where I'm going to start.
Earl Gibson III/Deadline via Getty Images
Since Sophie has always had an affinity for simple silhouettes with dramatic accents, this custom Dior feather-trimmed dress made perfect sense for her.
What I appreciate most is that the feathers aren't treated as an embellishment confined to one area. They trace the asymmetric neckline before sweeping around the skirt and into the train, giving the black dress the kind of personality Sophie's red carpet looks tend to have. It's glamorous, but still feels entirely within her wheelhouse.
I think the new hair colour and style may have been the reason she slipped under my radar in Cannes. I'm so accustomed to seeing Sophie with her signature cornrows that I genuinely didn't recognise her at first.

#okonedo

Amber Heard showcased her six-pack abs in lilac sportswear as she celebrated completing her first half-marathon in Spain.
The actress, 40, shared photographs from the race on Instagram, revealing that she had covered the distance in an impressive one hour and 39 minutes.
"First half marathon, eskerrik asko Donosti!" she wrote, thanking the city of San Sebastián by its Basque name. "21 kilometers in 1:39 min !!"
Amber wore a scoop-neck sports bra and matching fitted cycling shorts, with the cropped design revealing her defined stomach. Pale pink socks and running shoes completed her outfit.
Amber showcases her impressive abs (@ Instagram)

#amber #Instagram #half

In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, some stars who once dominated red carpets and box office charts have stepped out of the limelight, leaving fans wondering where they went and what they're up to now. The stories behind these familiar faces range from personal choices to industry shifts, but one thing remains: their impact on pop culture is undeniable. Join us as we take a look at 15 beloved actors whose talent left a mark, even if they're seldom seen in today's headlines.
KCS Presse / MEGA
As the face of a beloved supernatural TV series and memorable big-screen hits, Sarah Michelle Gellar became synonymous with strong, complex female characters. Her presence influenced an entire generation of viewers and inspired countless fans. Though her projects are less frequent now, her influence remains in the genre she helped popularize. Gellar led the supernatural drama Buffy the Vampire Slayer for seven seasons, as reported by Variety.
LISA OConnor/AFF-USA / MEGA
Twice lauded for her deeply moving portrayals in dramatic films, Hilary Swank's performances set a standard for commitment and resilience. She's taken creative control of her career, often shifting between acting and producing, and remains a steady but selective presence in the industry. Her legacy is defined by her transformative roles and ongoing dedication to meaningful stories. Swank claimed the Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal of Brandon Teena in Boys Don't Cry and again for her role as a boxer in Million Dollar Baby, according to Britannica.

#fans #stories

If you grew up glued to your TV screen or scanning movie posters at your local cinema, these actresses probably defined your weekends and rewrote the rules for what it meant to be a star. From sitcom sweethearts and cult movie icons to queens of the rom-com and acclaimed drama, the women highlighted here dominated the spotlight and captured our imaginations. Their stories are still making headlines — and their presence continues to shape Hollywood, long after their breakout roles.
MEGA
As a mainstay of teen comedies such as American Pie and Scary Movie, Shannon Elizabeth left a mark with unforgettable performances that kept audiences laughing and rooting for her. Off-screen, she co-founded the Animal Avengers nonprofit in 2001 to rescue and rehabilitate animals, and later moved to South Africa to focus on wildlife conservation, as reported by Yahoo! Entertainment.
O'Connor/AFF-USA / MEGA
Jaime Pressly brought comedic chops and sharp wit to sitcoms and movies alike, earning awards and critical praise for her roles. Her portrayal of Joy Turner on NBC's My Name Is Earl earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2007, along with nominations for a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award, according to UPI.

#screen #movie

In a development that will come as a surprise to very few media observers, former White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt is joining Fox News.
According to The New York Times and confirmed by Mediaite, Leavitt is joining the network as an on-air contributor. She is expected to start on Nov. 1. An official announcement from the network is expected shortly.
"Karoline's firsthand experience in the White House and on the presidential campaign trail gives her a distinct understanding of today's political landscape," Suzanne Scott, Fox News Media CEO, said in a statement published by the Times.
In a statement of her own published by the Times, Leavitt vowed to provide "the unique perspective and candor that defined my tenure with the Trump administration" in her new role.
Leavitt will join Dana Perino and Kayleigh McEnany as former White House press secretaries on the Fox News roster.

#leavitt #press

The Venice Film Festival may revolve around cinema, but fashion has become an essential part of its annual spectacle. The 2026 edition once again transformed the Lido into a showcase for couture, sharp tailoring and unexpected styling. Stars moved between timeless black gowns, shimmering embellishments, relaxed suits and bursts of bright color. Some relied on archival fashion, while others arrived in custom creations designed specifically for the occasion. Together, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Amal Clooney, Rooney and Kate Mara, Robert Pattinson, Suki Waterhouse and Pamela Anderson demonstrated just how varied festival dressing can be.
Jury president Maggie Gyllenhaal established a sophisticated tone with several dramatic black looks. For the opening, she selected an all black Celine ensemble featuring an off the shoulder twisted bodice. Another memorable appearance came in archival Armani Privé from the Fall 2015 collection. Rich velvet, sharply sculpted shoulders and crystal detailing around the plunging neckline gave the older design a fresh presence on the carpet.
Amal Clooney also embraced black with a custom Tom Ford creation by Haider Ackermann. Her appearance demonstrated the continuing appeal of streamlined eveningwear, with careful construction and texture doing much of the visual work. Rather than competing with the surroundings through excessive decoration, the gown relied on an elegant silhouette and refined details.
Sisters Rooney and Kate Mara offered two very different interpretations of evening glamour while promoting Bucking Fastard. Rooney remained close to her famously minimalist aesthetic in a black satin Louis Vuitton dress. A sleek fitted upper section expanded dramatically near the hem through gathers and voluminous fabric. Kate moved in the opposite direction with Armani Privé, choosing a black and white gown featuring a sparkling skirt and pearl embellished bodice.
Menswear also provided a change of pace. Robert Pattinson appeared in a relaxed white pinstripe suit while promoting Primetime, pairing it with a crisp shirt and striped tie. The slightly oversized proportions gave traditional tailoring a lighter feeling suited to Venice. Suki Waterhouse accompanied him in a pale green Saint Laurent lace two piece, bringing a softer color and delicate texture to the event.

#black #gyllenhaal #clooney #mara

Ryan Seacrest has sent fans into a frenzy after revealing his seriously impressive physique in a series of new shirtless photos.
The 51-year-oldAmerican Idol and Wheel of Fortune host gave his followers a glimpse at how he spends a rare day away from his busy work schedule – and his fitness regime certainly isn't taking a break.
Ryan shared two photos from a day spent exercising outdoors, with the TV star showing off his defined abs and muscular arms as he posed shirtless beside his ElliptiGO stand-up bike.
Ryan showcased the results of his workout regime (@ Ryan Seacrest/Instagram)
"What a day off looks like from start to finish," he captioned the post.

#ryan #shirtless #elliptigo #Instagram

Elvis Presley's iconic stage looks are as singular as his music.
The King of Rock and Roll's signature style was defined by the jumpsuits he often wore to perform, which are displayed at the popular Graceland exhibit "Elvis: Dressed to Rock" in Memphis, Tenn.
In August 2026, the historic estate and former home of the rocker released From the Graceland Archives: The Jumpsuit Anthology, a 320-page hardcover coffee table book that features Presley's iconic stage wear from 1969 to 1976, organized chronologically by the year each jumpsuit debuted.
The book features the work of Bill Belew, who first worked with Presley to design outfits for his 1968 NBC television special. Belew later became the star's personal designer, creating his looks for both on stage and off.
Here, discover nine little-known facts from the book about Presley's fashion looks throughout his career.

#stage #rock #graceland #belew

Black may be one of the safest colors in formal fashion, but the 2026 Venice Film Festival showed how unpredictable it can become in the right hands. Across premieres and ceremonies, stars embraced lace, velvet, satin, sculptural tailoring and elaborate draping. Instead of relying on color to create impact, designers used texture and silhouette to give each outfit a distinctive personality. Laura Dern, Susan Sarandon, Amal Clooney, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Rooney Mara all approached the classic shade differently. Together, their appearances demonstrated why black continues to have such staying power on major red carpets.
Laura Dern embraced intricate detailing for the premiere of Wild Horse Nine. Her sleeveless black Dior gown featured a V neckline, delicate lace and floral embroidery across the upper section. The design transitioned into a fuller shimmering skirt, giving the monochrome look depth through contrasting textures. Black Dior pumps maintained the restrained palette, while a Cartier necklace provided a polished finishing touch.
Susan Sarandon chose a more streamlined interpretation at the premiere of The Echo Chamber. Her black Fendi dress featured long sleeves and an off the shoulder neckline, with a fluid silhouette that followed the body without requiring elaborate embellishment. Statement jewelry, sunglasses and bright red lipstick added personality, demonstrating how accessories can completely change the mood of an otherwise minimalist black dress.
For the festival's opening ceremony, Amal Clooney turned to Tom Ford. Her floor length column gown used rippled fabric panels and subtle leather detailing to create movement and texture. Pointed pumps and a coordinating clutch continued the sleek approach. The result demonstrated how carefully constructed fabric can make a single color visually interesting without overwhelming the overall silhouette.
Maggie Gyllenhaal brought archival fashion into the conversation with an Armani Privé velvet gown originally created in 2015. The design combined sharply defined shoulders, long sleeves and a plunging embellished neckline. Its return more than a decade later also highlighted the growing red carpet practice of revisiting existing fashion rather than treating older couture as something that belongs permanently in an archive.

#susan

Léa Seydoux has turned her relationship with Louis Vuitton into one of the most recognizable partnerships on the red carpet. The French actress became an ambassador for the fashion house in 2016, and its designs have accompanied her to film festivals, premieres and major awards ceremonies ever since. Her wardrobe can move from sharp tailoring to elaborate crystal covered gowns without losing its distinctive character. Classic French elegance remains at the center, but unexpected shapes, textures and details keep the looks contemporary. Over the years, Seydoux has shown just how versatile a long term relationship between an actress and a fashion house can become.
At the 2018 Cannes Film Festival, Seydoux demonstrated that versatility through several contrasting looks. For the premiere of Under the Silver Lake, she selected an off the shoulder Louis Vuitton column gown featuring a bold geometric pattern. At the screening of Girls of the Sun, she wore another fitted design with a high slit and dramatic neckline. That appearance carried additional significance as Seydoux joined dozens of women on the Cannes steps in a demonstration calling attention to gender inequality within the film industry.
Returning to Cannes in 2019 for Oh Mercy!, Seydoux moved away from the traditional evening gown. Tailored blue trousers, a fitted printed top and a defined waist created a polished alternative to conventional premiere dressing. Red lipstick and Chopard jewelry completed a look that felt sophisticated without relying on elaborate volume.
Her formalwear became increasingly dramatic at subsequent events. At the 2020 Academy Awards, Seydoux appeared in a sculptural white Louis Vuitton gown with a plunging neckline and heavily pleated skirt. For the Vanity Fair celebration afterward, she changed into a flowing red dress. At the 2021 premiere of No Time to Die, she embraced even greater spectacle in a shimmering silver Louis Vuitton cape gown covered with crystals.
The 2022 BAFTA Awards produced another intricate creation. Seydoux wore a strapless black velvet Louis Vuitton gown with a sparkling embellished skirt, continuing her preference for silhouettes that combine simple lines with labor intensive detailing.

#seydoux #cannes #premiere

Mikey Madison turned heads with a daring mix of traditional British tailoring and sultry punk glamour. The rising actress stepped out in a custom dark Vivienne Westwood look styled by celebrity stylist Andrew Mukamal. Pairing vintage-inspired structure with edgy details, she easily commanded the room. Her unique outfit showcases classic Westwood rebellion while bringing a fresh, modern energy to red-carpet dressing.
Madison wore a tailored two-piece look featuring a sharp slate-blue short-sleeved jacket. The structured top boasted wide lapels, neat central **** ons, and a flared peplum waist. A subtle embroidered Vivienne Westwood orb logo sat quietly near her hip. The tailored silhouette hugged her torso closely, creating a classic vintage shape before giving way to the dramatic skirt below.
The asymmetric skirt featured navy and black diagonal bands with an uneven hem. A sheer section appeared beneath one side of the skirt, while black tights continued the dark color palette. She finished the look with dark navy open-toe platform heels
She posed against a grey textured wall, letting her outfit do all the talking. Mikey swept her long brunette hair over her shoulder in loose, cascading waves. She chose soft, natural makeup with rosy cheeks, defined eyes, and a satin pink lip. She kept her accessories minimal, opting for delicate silver earrings so the structured clothing remained the main focus.
Mikey proves that structured tops and provocative skirts can coexist beautifully. Stylist Andrew Mukamal highlighted Westwood's signature corsetry details while embracing a moody aesthetic. Mikey walked the line between retro sophistication and edgy gothic glamour with complete confidence. She continues to solidify her position as a true fashion risk-taker to watch

#westwood #look

Joe Burrow is continuing his evolution from NFL quarterback to one of professional football's most closely watched dressers.
The Cincinnati Bengals star fronts Alo's latest fall campaign, introducing Java Brown to the lifestyle brand's seasonal color palette. The warm neutral appears alongside Gravel and Ivory across a selection of performance pieces, knitwear, tailoring and accessories.
In the campaign, Burrow models studio-to-street looks intended to move between training, travel and time away from the field. Featured pieces include the Alo Suited Trouser, Alpha Shell Long Coat and Cotton Ribbed Parallel Sweater. The Alo Voyage Duffle, an accessory that has previously appeared in Burrow's game-day arrivals, also returns.
The campaign builds on Burrow's ongoing relationship with Alo, which encompasses fashion, athletic performance and recovery. He previously appeared in the brand's Conquer Collection campaign and helped introduce its Alo Runner performance shoe.
"I've always been drawn to pieces that feel refined but effortless," Burrow said in a statement.

#burrow #campaign #appeared

Mikey Madison turned heads with a daring mix of traditional British tailoring and sultry punk glamour. The rising actress stepped out in a custom dark Vivienne Westwood look styled by celebrity stylist Andrew Mukamal. Pairing vintage-inspired structure with edgy details, she easily commanded the room. Her unique outfit showcases classic Westwood rebellion while bringing a fresh, modern energy to red-carpet dressing.
Madison wore a tailored two-piece look featuring a sharp slate-blue short-sleeved jacket. The structured top boasted wide lapels, neat central **** ons, and a flared peplum waist. A subtle embroidered Vivienne Westwood orb logo sat quietly near her hip. The tailored silhouette hugged her torso closely, creating a classic vintage shape before giving way to the dramatic skirt below.
The asymmetric skirt featured navy and black diagonal bands with an uneven hem. A sheer section appeared beneath one side of the skirt, while black tights continued the dark color palette. She finished the look with dark navy open-toe platform heels
She posed against a grey textured wall, letting her outfit do all the talking. Mikey swept her long brunette hair over her shoulder in loose, cascading waves. She chose soft, natural makeup with rosy cheeks, defined eyes, and a satin pink lip. She kept her accessories minimal, opting for delicate silver earrings so the structured clothing remained the main focus.
Mikey proves that structured tops and provocative skirts can coexist beautifully. Stylist Andrew Mukamal highlighted Westwood's signature corsetry details while embracing a moody aesthetic. Mikey walked the line between retro sophistication and edgy gothic glamour with complete confidence. She continues to solidify her position as a true fashion risk-taker to watch

#dark #look #vivienne

Hollywood icon Judi Dench is speaking out against retail giant Petco over alleged mistreatment of birds.
The 91-year-old Oscar winner sprang into action after watching a PETA investigation depicting disturbing conditions at a "mass breeding factory in Petco's supply chain."
Page Six Hollywood reported Friday, October 2, that Dench did not mince words in a letter to Petco CEO Joel Anderson.
"The footage revealed that thousands of parakeets were confined to cramped, filthy cages with no opportunity to fly, explore, or engage in the natural behaviors that make them who they are," Dench wrote in part, per the outlet. "Some birds suffered severe injuries, including a bird who had lost an eye and a chick whose wing had shriveled, blackened, and fallen off."
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

#petco #peta #page

This week, we're turning the lens back to the early 2000s — when pop culture icons defined a generation — tracing the journeys of some beloved stars who've largely stepped back from the Hollywood glare. From dramatic career pivots and meaningful personal challenges to unexpected comebacks, here's a look at the stories behind the faces you once couldn't escape on your screen.
MEGA
Once famed for her bubbly on-screen persona and stunning box-office success, Cameron Diaz stepped away from acting at the peak of her career to focus on her family and personal ventures, per The Hollywood Reporter. Always stylish, Diaz became just as celebrated for her off-screen life, including authoring two best-selling health books — The Body Book reached the No. 1 spot on the New York Times bestseller list shortly after its release in 2014, as reported by Audible.
MEGA
Amanda Bynes was a comedy sensation and one of the most beloved young actresses of her generation, starring in hit TV shows and films that defined youth culture. She first rose to prominence on Nickelodeon's All That at just 10 years old before landing her own series, The Amanda Show, per Today. Despite fame and awards, her later years brought struggles with mental health and a shift away from the spotlight, including a nearly decade-long conservatorship that was terminated by a judge in 2022, according to Salon. Bynes' journey has resonated with many, offering a reminder of resilience and the challenges of child stardom.

#diaz #amanda #bynes #back

Linda Evangelista—the iconic Canadian supermodel famously known for her ultra-short hairstyle nicknamed "the Linda" and the phrase "We don't wake up for less than $10,000 a day"—has officially strutted away from her New York City penthouse.
Celebrated for her work as one of the original supermodels of the 1980s and 1990s alongside Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, and Cindy Crawford, the Ontario-born Evangelista, now 61, appeared in multimillion-dollar campaigns for Revlon and Versace. She was also named one of People magazine's "50 Most Beautiful People" during her heyday.
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#turlington

Martha Stewart's shoe style reflects the same polished sophistication and timeless elegance that defines her brand. Known for her impeccable taste and eye for detail, Stewart favors classic silhouettes with a modern twist—often opting for luxurious peep toe heels, chic slingbacks, sleek pumps, and practical yet stylish clogs.
She's also been seen in refined block heels and elegant sandals for formal occasions, while her off-duty looks sometimes include designer sneakers that blend comfort with quiet luxury. Whether she's walking a red carpet, appearing on television, or sharing glimpses of her daily life on social media, her footwear choices consistently complement her graceful and curated aesthetic.
More from WWD
Ziwe Takes Fashion Month's Thong Sandal Trend to the Courrèges Front Row in Orange Satin
Daisy Edgar-Jones Goes Monochrome in White With Trendy Alaïa Pumps for 'Sense and Sensibility' Promo

#heels #whether #thong

On September 17, Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:LCID) and Bolt, a leading European shared mobility platform, announced a strategic partnership to develop and deploy autonomous mobility services across Europe. This sent shares of Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:LCID) higher, and the stock ended the trading session with gains of nearly 6%.
The partnership will combine Lucid Group, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:LCID) software-defined vehicle platform with Bolt's European data, operating infrastructure, and mobility expertise. The companies will be looking to develop and launch autonomous mobility services at scale, using vehicles based on Lucid Group, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:LCID) upcoming Midsize platform.
Bolt plans to deploy at least 25,000 fully autonomous vehicles across multiple European cities and countries, supporting its ambitious goal of having 100,000 autonomous vehicles on its platform by 2035.
The financial details of the partnership were not disclosed.
The deal comes as Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:LCID) continues to face significant financial pressure. The company has been pursuing an ambitious expansion strategy. However, its revenue growth has not yet been enough to offset substantial operating losses and the high costs ****** ociated with building its global factories.

#lcid #european #platform #partnership

On August 5, Cencora (NYSE:COR) reported results for its fiscal third quarter, which closed on June 30, and the headline numbers looked clean. Revenue rose 5.1% to $84.8 billion, adjusted earnings per share climbed 12.0% to $4.48, and management raised its full-year adjusted EPS outlook to $17.75 to $17.95. The company also repurchased $1 billion of its own stock during the quarter. But the profit story has moving parts, and a few of them pull in opposite directions.
Start with the gap between profit growth and sales growth. Adjusted operating income rose 17.0% while revenue grew only 5.1%. Much of the help came from gross profit, which jumped 23.2% on an adjusted basis as both segments contributed and the OneOncology acquisition in February lifted margins in the US business. In plain terms, adjusted gross margin widened 61 basis points to 4.16%, so the company keeps more gross profit from every dollar it sells.
The strength was not confined to one corner, either. US Healthcare Solutions grew operating income 15.9% on higher pharmaceutical sales and the OneOncology deal, while specialty volume to health systems and physician groups lifted its revenue. International Healthcare Solutions did better still, with operating income up 20.8% on strength in European distribution and global specialty logistics. Management also put cash to work, completing in one quarter the $1 billion of buybacks it had expected to finish by the close of calendar 2026. The board declared a $0.60 quarterly dividend as well, payable August 31, to holders of record on August 14.
Growth is costing more than it first appears. Adjusted operating expenses jumped 26.8%, faster than adjusted gross profit, because OneOncology brought expenses along with its profits. Even so, adjusted operating income amounts to just 1.46% of revenue, a thin cushion on a business this large. Financing adds weight too. Cencora funded part of the purchase with new senior notes plus variable-rate term loans, and net interest expense rose $58.9 million from a year earlier.
The sales mix carries its own drag. GLP-1 drugs for diabetes and weight loss are adding to revenue, but they earn lower gross margins, so each dollar of that growth is worth less to profit. Meanwhile, an oncology customer Cencora lost in 2025, and lower sales to a large mail order customer both held back US revenue, as did lower manufacturer prices on some brand pharmaceuticals. Cencora is also exploring strategic alternatives for a group of other businesses, and its April divestiture of US Consulting Services trimmed consulting sales.

#adjusted #revenue #august

Marathon Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:MPC) has substantially outperformed the wider market this year, supported by an unusually sharp surge in global refining margins as the prolonged Iran crisis has significantly tightened global refining capacity and reduced supplies of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
With Marathon up by over 150% since the beginning of 2026, there are now concerns that the stock may have topped out. However, the ****** ysts over at Morgan Stanley are convinced that the rally still has further room to run. On September 14, Morgan Stanley ****** yst Joe Laetsch significantly raised the firm's price target on MPC from $265 to $453, while reaffirming an 'Overweight' rating on the shares.
The target boost reflects an upside of over 9% from the current price level and even exceeds the stock's record high of just under $411 per share achieved earlier this month. The Morgan Stanley update comes amid broader Wall Street optimism surrounding the American refining giant, with ****** ysts from Raymon James, UBS, and several others also improving their respective outlooks on MPC.
Morgan Stanley's vote of confidence suggests that Wall Street expects the ongoing refining upcycle to last longer than previously expected, especially given the fresh wave of attacks between Washington and Tehran. Even if the conflict in the Middle East subsides, the region's refined fuel output is expected to remain relatively tight, since the damaged or idled refineries in the Middle East are likely to take some time to return to full operations.
As the largest refiner by volume in the United States, Marathon has significant operating leverage to capitalize on the current high-margin environment. The company already demonstrated its ability to translate the high crack spreads into material earnings when it delivered an almost fourfold increase in profits in the second quarter.

#morgan #marathon #stanley #middle

Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:VLO) has been on a strong rally, posting gains of over 140% since the beginning of 2026. The strong performance is fuelled by an unusually sharp surge in global refining margins as the ongoing disruptions have significantly reduced the world's refining capacity and tightened supplies of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
While there are now investor concerns that the stock may have topped out, Wall Street sees further upside ahead. On September 14, Morgan Stanley ******* yst Joe Laetsch significantly boosted the firm's price target on VLO from $255 to $411, while maintaining an 'Equal Weight' rating on the shares. The revised target implies an upside of almost 4% from the current levels and even exceeds the stock's all-time high of just under $400 per share.
The higher price objective is supported by the possibility that Valero can translate the favorable refining environment into material earnings and cash flows. The company did exactly that in the second quarter, when it posted its highest-ever Q2 profit and topped Wall Street expectations.
It seems like the high-margin environment is here to stay following a fresh wave of attacks between the US and Iran. Even if the attacks stop and a potential peace agreement is achieved, the damaged or idled refineries in the Middle East are likely to take some time to return to full operations, keeping refined-fuel markets relatively tight. Notably, the supply disruptions also extend beyond the troubled region, as a recent series of Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries has further constrained global refining capacity.
Valero's FCC Unit optimization project at its St. Charles Refinery will allow it to capitalize even further on the high-priced environment. Expected to be completed in the third quarter, the $230 million initiative will help enhance the facility's ability to produce high-value products.

#even #environment #wall #strong

JEPI, DIVO, and GPIX each pay near 8% monthly yields while growing share price by writing calls on only a portion of holdings.
GPIX has beaten SPY with an 80% return since its 2023 launch by capping its options overlay at just 25 to 75% of the portfolio.
DIVO's tactical options sleeve delivers a lower 6% yield but drives 72% five-year price appreciation, nearly matching SPY's gains.
Two retirees, same $1 million, same 4% rule, buy one finished with $1.4 million, the other hit $0 in 12 years. Our free reader guide explains the flaw that separated them, and the income-first method built to avoid it.
Covered call ETFs have a reputation problem. For years, the category was defined by funds like QYLD and XYLD that wrote at-the-money calls on entire index portfolios, harvested rich premiums, and quietly bled principal every time markets rallied. Investors got their monthly check and watched their share price drift lower. That is the trap worth avoiding.

#gpix #calls #lower #years

Credit card companies are racing to claim a place at the checkout when AI agents start shopping on behalf of consumers—even as shoppers remain skeptical of letting bots spend their money.
Mastercard rolled out a payment option Thursday that lets people give an AI agent a virtual card and allow it to buy things online without checking in before each purchase. Cardholders can limit how much it spends, restrict which retailers it buys from, or require approval before checkout.
"This is a land grab for infrastructure standards," Phil Bruno, chief strategy and growth officer at payments company ACI Worldwide, told Fortune. "If they set the standards for agentic commerce, they can keep the commerce in their environments for decades to come."
Rival Visa partnered with Alchemy earlier this year and has also announced its own AI shopping and payment product, Visa Intelligent Commerce, which the company says is still being deployed. Similarly, Meta has Muse, which can search for products and navigate checkout, but presents the purchase for the user's final approval.
It seems, though, that shoppers appear far more interested in using AI to find a deal than letting it pay. Just 7% of U.S. and U.K. consumers surveyed who buy fashion items said they would allow an AI ***** istant to make purchases without approval under predefined conditions, according to research commissioned by ACI Worldwide. More than half said they were uncomfortable allowing AI to purchase on their behalf.

#purchase #consumers

Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) stock has returned about 57% over the past year, against about 17% for the S&P 500. On the earnings it has already banked, that price looks expensive. But those earnings carry STELARA, which is losing share to biosimilar competition. What looks dear on earnings already reported comes down sharply on the earnings ***** ysts expect.
At about $270 a share, Johnson & Johnson trades at about 28.3 times its trailing earnings. That figure sits on adjusted earnings: normalized net income with stock-based compensation added back, meant to sit closer to the basis ***** ysts use in their forecasts than a GAAP figure would, though the two measures are not defined identically. Measured as market value against consensus net income, the multiple on fiscal 2026 earnings is about 24.1 times, and on the earnings expected for 2027 it is about 20.9 times.
Those trailing twelve months were not a clean run. STELARA cost Johnson & Johnson about 460 basis points of operational sales growth in the second quarter of 2026. Strip it out and the company grew double digits in that quarter on the same basis, on management's own account.
The trailing multiple measures today's price against a period burdened by slowing STELARA revenue. The rest of the portfolio kept growing. Revenue over the trailing twelve months is close to $98 billion, and the company has 28 products and platforms that each sell more than $1 billion a year.
Immunology shows both sides at once. TREMFYA grew 71% in the second quarter of 2026, and it remains the fastest-growing advanced therapy in both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. STELARA is shrinking under biosimilars in that same segment.

#johnson #earnings

Choosing between a niche equipment provider and a diversified industry **** an requires balancing high growth potential against established stability. Here is how Aehr Test Systems (NASDAQ:AEHR) and KLA (NASDAQ:KLAC) compare for investors.
Aehr Test Systems focuses on specific stress-testing solutions for power semiconductors and memory, while KLA provides broad process control tools used across the entire chip-making industry. While they both operate in the same sector, their scale and risk profiles differ significantly, making them attractive to different types of portfolios.
Aehr Test Systems designs and sells specialized equipment for the testing and stabilization of semiconductor products in various forms, including wafers and singulated dies. The company focuses on the high-growth silicon carbide market for electric vehicles and high-bandwidth memory for artificial intelligence infrastructure. In its 2026 fiscal year (FY), which ended May 29, its five largest customers accounted for nearly 70% of net sales, and customer concentration like this adds a layer of risk to the business.
In FY 2026, revenue reached $50.0 million, representing a decline of 15.2% compared to the previous year. This contraction followed a period of higher operating costs, resulting in a net loss of $7.1 million for the period. The net margin, which represents the percentage of revenue remaining as profit after all expenses, was -14.3% in the latest fiscal year.
As of its May 2026 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is zero, indicating that the company has no debt relative to its shareholder equity. The current ratio, which measures a company's ability to cover short-term liabilities with short-term **** ets, is 10.3x. Free cash flow, defined as cash from operations minus capital expenditures, was a negative $5.4 million for the fiscal year ended in May.

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Interested in Keysight Technologies Inc.? Here are five stocks we like better.
AI data-center demand is driving strong growth in Keysight's wireline business, particularly around 1.6T and emerging 3.2T networking, silicon photonics, co-packaged optics and system-level testing.
Demand currently exceeds supply, with Keysight expanding manufacturing capacity, supplier agreements and component sourcing; revenue beyond its typical order-to-revenue window was approaching $100 million.
Keysight expects additional growth from 6G, aerospace and defense, semiconductors and software-defined vehicles. The company anticipates 6G acceleration in the first half of 2028 and plans to maintain investment while targeting incremental margins of at least 40% when growth exceeds 5%.
3 Lesser-Known Quantum Plays the Market May Be Overlooking Right Now

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On September 15, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG) announced that it had bought McMillan Insurance & Bonding Inc., an Englewood, Colorado, firm that operates as Innovise Business Consultants. Gallagher did not say what it paid. On its own, the deal is a footnote. But it is one of many, and the way those deals show up in earnings is where the debate over this stock really lives.
On July 30, Gallagher reported results for the quarter ended June 30, and the top line was hard to argue with. Revenue from its combined Brokerage and Risk Management businesses grew 24%, and organic growth, which leaves out acquisitions, was 6%. That second number shows clients are staying and spending. It was not confined to one corner, either, since organic fees in the risk management arm rose 12%. Management adds that retention is strong and customers want broader help from the platform. Adjusted earnings per share climbed to $2.84 from $2.30, which means growth is reaching profit once one-time acquisition costs are set aside.
Innovise fits the pattern. It sells surety bonds and commercial insurance brokerage with a focus on manufacturing, energy, construction and real estate, and Chairman and CEO J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr. said that niche expertise adds depth in Colorado. Jason McMillan's team will move into Gallagher's Denver office and work under Bret VanderVoort, who oversees retail property/casualty brokerage for the Western Zone. Buying specialists and folding them into existing offices is a repeatable playbook, and Gallagher closed 14 brokerage acquisitions in the first six months of 2026.
Now look at reported earnings, because that is where you see the cost. Diluted earnings per share fell to $1.25, from $1.40 in the second quarter of 2025, even though revenue jumped. Much of the gap between reported and adjusted results is the price of buying growth. Amortization of acquired intangibles alone weighs on brokerage net earnings by $218 million, up from $130 million a year ago, and integration costs rose as well. Adjusted figures set those aside, but they are real expenses, and they keep landing as long as Gallagher keeps buying.
Margins tell a similar story. The brokerage segment's adjusted EBITDAC margin, a stand-in for operating profit, slipped to 33.3% from 36.1%. Gallagher points to last year's interest income on cash raised for the ***** uredPartners deal, which closed in the third quarter of 2025, plus seasonality and newly added tuck-ins. That is a fair explanation. But the debt behind the deal is still here, including $9.55 billion of public debt, plus more in private placements and on a credit line. And the deal flow is thinner: brokerage acquisitions closed in the first six months of 2026 carried $107 million of annualized revenue, versus $354 million a year earlier, which puts more weight on organic growth.

#Growth