1 hr. ago
MOSCOW, Aug 31 (Reuters) - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday that the war in Ukraine needed to end for humanity's sake and that New Delhi would support every peace effort to stop the fighting.
Modi, who made his comments at the start of talks with Putin in the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek, called Putin "my friend" and hailed growing economic ties between the two countries which he said were guided by the need to put the interests of both nations above all else.
India, along with China, is one of the biggest buyers of Russian oil, which has helped Moscow replenish its budget since it sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in 2022 and was hit with sweeping Western sanctions.
"As you are aware, India supports all peace efforts in this regard, and we shall continue to do so in the future," Modi told Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, according to a Kremlin transcript of their exchange.
"Every day that the war continues, humanity is, in effect, set back a step, whilst every step towards peace gives all of humanity real hope for peace. We need to move from endless war to an end to the war, to a cessation of hostilities. And we will need to move precisely in this direction," said Modi who has said before that he wants a peace settlement for Ukraine.
#modi #moscow #russian
Modi, who made his comments at the start of talks with Putin in the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek, called Putin "my friend" and hailed growing economic ties between the two countries which he said were guided by the need to put the interests of both nations above all else.
India, along with China, is one of the biggest buyers of Russian oil, which has helped Moscow replenish its budget since it sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in 2022 and was hit with sweeping Western sanctions.
"As you are aware, India supports all peace efforts in this regard, and we shall continue to do so in the future," Modi told Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, according to a Kremlin transcript of their exchange.
"Every day that the war continues, humanity is, in effect, set back a step, whilst every step towards peace gives all of humanity real hope for peace. We need to move from endless war to an end to the war, to a cessation of hostilities. And we will need to move precisely in this direction," said Modi who has said before that he wants a peace settlement for Ukraine.
#modi #moscow #russian
5 hours ago
The recent recovery across digital ****** ets could have further room to run, according to Needham & Company, which has increased its crypto trading volume forecasts for the exchanges and platforms covered by the firm.
"How sustainable is the crypto rebound? We believe it has legs," ****** yst John Todaro wrote in a note to clients, identifying three factors supporting the firm's ****** sment.
The first factor is a potential rotation in investor attention and capital. Needham said artificial intelligence stocks, which previously attracted significant retail participation, have cooled as regulatory pressures increase ahead of the midterm elections.
Retail trading activity in commodities, including oil and metals, has also moderated.
Against that backdrop, Needham believes digital ****** ets could become relatively more attractive to investors again as competing speculative trades lose some of their momentum.
#Crypto #trading #company
"How sustainable is the crypto rebound? We believe it has legs," ****** yst John Todaro wrote in a note to clients, identifying three factors supporting the firm's ****** sment.
The first factor is a potential rotation in investor attention and capital. Needham said artificial intelligence stocks, which previously attracted significant retail participation, have cooled as regulatory pressures increase ahead of the midterm elections.
Retail trading activity in commodities, including oil and metals, has also moderated.
Against that backdrop, Needham believes digital ****** ets could become relatively more attractive to investors again as competing speculative trades lose some of their momentum.
#Crypto #trading #company
21 hours ago
The leaders of China, Russia and India are among the heads of state gathering in Kyrgyzstan this week for the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, a group billed as a counterweight to U.S. global influence.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are scheduled to attend the events in Bishkek, the capital of the Central Asian nation.
Multiple one-on-one meetings are scheduled on its sidelines, including one between Putin and Xi on Monday, as well as talks between the Russian leader and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday, the day of the official SCO sessions.
Russia, now 4½ years into its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and Iran, six months into a war with the United States and Israel, see the summit as an important platform to strengthen their relations with non-Western partners.
The SCO was founded in 2001 by China, Russia and four Central Asian states as a security forum. Over the past quarter-century, it has grown in size and influence, although its goals and programs remain vague and its brand recognition low.
#Russia #putin #central #summit
Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are scheduled to attend the events in Bishkek, the capital of the Central Asian nation.
Multiple one-on-one meetings are scheduled on its sidelines, including one between Putin and Xi on Monday, as well as talks between the Russian leader and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday, the day of the official SCO sessions.
Russia, now 4½ years into its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and Iran, six months into a war with the United States and Israel, see the summit as an important platform to strengthen their relations with non-Western partners.
The SCO was founded in 2001 by China, Russia and four Central Asian states as a security forum. Over the past quarter-century, it has grown in size and influence, although its goals and programs remain vague and its brand recognition low.
#Russia #putin #central #summit
2 days ago
Sandisk (NASDAQ: SNDK) has taken investors on a ride in 2026. It's still the best-performing component of the S&P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) this year, but lost a significant amount of value since its highs in late June.
Sandisk is down around 35% since then, but is this a screaming bargain that investors should scoop up in September, or is this stock better left alone?
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Let's take a look at some trends and see if Sandisk's sell-off occurred for a good reason or if now is the time to strike.
Sandisk makes NAND memory, which is often used for long-term information storage. There is currently a huge memory chip shortage, mainly because the AI data center buildout has consumed all available capacity. There isn't much that separates one memory chip producer from another, so the entire market is fairly commoditized. Commoditized products follow economic theory very closely, and this dictates that as supply is low and demand is high, prices soar.
#commoditized
Sandisk is down around 35% since then, but is this a screaming bargain that investors should scoop up in September, or is this stock better left alone?
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Let's take a look at some trends and see if Sandisk's sell-off occurred for a good reason or if now is the time to strike.
Sandisk makes NAND memory, which is often used for long-term information storage. There is currently a huge memory chip shortage, mainly because the AI data center buildout has consumed all available capacity. There isn't much that separates one memory chip producer from another, so the entire market is fairly commoditized. Commoditized products follow economic theory very closely, and this dictates that as supply is low and demand is high, prices soar.
#commoditized
2 days ago
Tether is putting fresh focus on Asia-Pacific as it expands its push into real-world ******* et tokenization, with Jed ******* f joining the company as Expansion Manager, Tokenization.
Nazif announced the move on LinkedIn, saying he will focus on driving RWA initiatives and expanding Tether's tokenization platform, Hadron by Tether, across APAC.
"I'm excited to drive RWA initiatives and Tether's tokenization platform, Hadron, in APAC," ******* f said.
The appointment comes as Tether increasingly looks beyond its core stablecoin business and builds infrastructure aimed at bringing traditional ******* ets onto blockchains.
Hadron, launched by Tether in 2024, is designed to help institutions issue and manage tokenized ******* ets across their lifecycle. The platform supports the tokenization of ******* ets including stocks, bonds, commodities, funds and reward points, alongside tools for KYC, blockchain reporting, capital-market management and regulatory guidance.
#tokenization #platform #apac #initiatives
Nazif announced the move on LinkedIn, saying he will focus on driving RWA initiatives and expanding Tether's tokenization platform, Hadron by Tether, across APAC.
"I'm excited to drive RWA initiatives and Tether's tokenization platform, Hadron, in APAC," ******* f said.
The appointment comes as Tether increasingly looks beyond its core stablecoin business and builds infrastructure aimed at bringing traditional ******* ets onto blockchains.
Hadron, launched by Tether in 2024, is designed to help institutions issue and manage tokenized ******* ets across their lifecycle. The platform supports the tokenization of ******* ets including stocks, bonds, commodities, funds and reward points, alongside tools for KYC, blockchain reporting, capital-market management and regulatory guidance.
#tokenization #platform #apac #initiatives
2 days ago
Logistics rivals FedEx Corporation (NYSE:FDX) and United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE:UPS) shared the spotlight on August 20, when the U.S. Transportation Command awarded both giants modified defense contracts worth an estimated $2.72 billion each under the Next Generation Delivery Service-2 program. Securing multi-year government cash flows through September 2030 provides a steady baseline for both carriers. However, underneath this shared win lies a stark divergence in operational performance and investor sentiment.
Comparing FedEx's fiscal Q4 2026 with UPS's Q2 2026 highlights two distinct corporate turnarounds.
FedEx Corporation (NYSE:FDX) capped off its fiscal year with strong momentum. Q4 revenue surged 13% year-over-year to $25.0 billion, while adjusted EPS rose to $6.31, and management surpassed its $1 billion structural cost-savings target via its DRIVE program. With the spin-off of its Freight unit completed in June 2026, a leaner FedEx issued a confident calendar year 2026 outlook, projecting ~11% top-line growth and adjusted EPS of $16.90 to $18.10.
United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE:UPS) showed its own signs of life in Q2 2026 following a sluggish start to the year. Consolidated revenue increased 7.6% year-over-year to $22.8 billion, beating Wall Street expectations. Adjusted EPS came in at $1.76 against GAAP EPS of $0.71 (impacted by $891 million in transformation and driver severance costs). Adjusted operating margins expanded 40 basis points to 9.2%, led by a 21% operating profit jump in the U.S. Domestic package. The turn was strong enough for UPS to raise its full-year guidance, now projecting revenue of ~$91.2 billion and adjusted EPS of ~$7.22.
While both companies beat quarterly expectations and raised forecasts, FDX is currently outperforming on growth speed and structural network integration (Network 2.0), whereas UPS carries higher margin leverage but faces heavier transformation friction.
#year #corporation
Comparing FedEx's fiscal Q4 2026 with UPS's Q2 2026 highlights two distinct corporate turnarounds.
FedEx Corporation (NYSE:FDX) capped off its fiscal year with strong momentum. Q4 revenue surged 13% year-over-year to $25.0 billion, while adjusted EPS rose to $6.31, and management surpassed its $1 billion structural cost-savings target via its DRIVE program. With the spin-off of its Freight unit completed in June 2026, a leaner FedEx issued a confident calendar year 2026 outlook, projecting ~11% top-line growth and adjusted EPS of $16.90 to $18.10.
United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE:UPS) showed its own signs of life in Q2 2026 following a sluggish start to the year. Consolidated revenue increased 7.6% year-over-year to $22.8 billion, beating Wall Street expectations. Adjusted EPS came in at $1.76 against GAAP EPS of $0.71 (impacted by $891 million in transformation and driver severance costs). Adjusted operating margins expanded 40 basis points to 9.2%, led by a 21% operating profit jump in the U.S. Domestic package. The turn was strong enough for UPS to raise its full-year guidance, now projecting revenue of ~$91.2 billion and adjusted EPS of ~$7.22.
While both companies beat quarterly expectations and raised forecasts, FDX is currently outperforming on growth speed and structural network integration (Network 2.0), whereas UPS carries higher margin leverage but faces heavier transformation friction.
#year #corporation
2 days ago
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) and TotalEnergies SE (NYSE:TTE) are making major moves in Sub-Saharan Africa, underscored by Chevron's August 17 announcement of a significant oil and gas condensate discovery in offshore Angola's Block 0. The 105-4X exploration well in the Lower Congo Basin encountered over 600 meters of column with 90 meters of net pay in the primary Pinda reservoir. Operated by Chevron's subsidiary CABGOC (39.2% interest) alongside Sonangol E&P, Azule Energy, and TotalEnergies, the ****** et will likely be tied back to nearby existing infrastructure for low-cost production. The discovery highlights Chevron's broader Sub-Saharan push, which generates ~300k boed net and includes recent additions in Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, and Angola's Blocks 49, 50, 33, and 14/23, alongside the upcoming Nabba-1X well in Namibia.
Photo from Fervo Energy website
Looking at Q2 2026 financial metrics, both energy giants posted robust results, but Chevron outperformed TotalEnergies across absolute top- and bottom-line figures as well as capital efficiency.
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) generated $70.1 billion in revenue and reported net income of $12.1 billion ($6.11 per share), with adjusted earnings hitting $12.0 billion. Driven by record production of 4.07 million boed (up 20% year-over-year) and strong refining throughput, Chevron produced an impressive $22.6 billion in operating cash flow and $18.1 billion in free cash flow, delivering a return on capital employed (ROCE) of 21.4%.
TotalEnergies SE (NYSE:TTE) also delivered solid top-line cash generation but came in lower in net profitability. Leveraging higher commodity prices during the Middle East conflict, TotalEnergies generated $9.8 billion in cash flow and $6.0 billion in adjusted net income for Q2 2026, with oil and gas production averaging 2.395 Mboe/d. Its Exploration & Production unit posted $3.2 billion in adjusted net operating income and $5.8 billion in cash flow, while Downstream contributed $2.9 billion in cash flow and Integrated Power generated $700 million. Both energy majors maintain strong, identical balance-sheet leverage, with each firm posting a net debt gearing ratio of 13.1% at the close of Q2. Overall, Chevron leads in total profitability, cash flow generation, and return on capital, making it the stronger financial performer this quarter.
#cash #TotalEnergies #flow #well
Photo from Fervo Energy website
Looking at Q2 2026 financial metrics, both energy giants posted robust results, but Chevron outperformed TotalEnergies across absolute top- and bottom-line figures as well as capital efficiency.
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) generated $70.1 billion in revenue and reported net income of $12.1 billion ($6.11 per share), with adjusted earnings hitting $12.0 billion. Driven by record production of 4.07 million boed (up 20% year-over-year) and strong refining throughput, Chevron produced an impressive $22.6 billion in operating cash flow and $18.1 billion in free cash flow, delivering a return on capital employed (ROCE) of 21.4%.
TotalEnergies SE (NYSE:TTE) also delivered solid top-line cash generation but came in lower in net profitability. Leveraging higher commodity prices during the Middle East conflict, TotalEnergies generated $9.8 billion in cash flow and $6.0 billion in adjusted net income for Q2 2026, with oil and gas production averaging 2.395 Mboe/d. Its Exploration & Production unit posted $3.2 billion in adjusted net operating income and $5.8 billion in cash flow, while Downstream contributed $2.9 billion in cash flow and Integrated Power generated $700 million. Both energy majors maintain strong, identical balance-sheet leverage, with each firm posting a net debt gearing ratio of 13.1% at the close of Q2. Overall, Chevron leads in total profitability, cash flow generation, and return on capital, making it the stronger financial performer this quarter.
#cash #TotalEnergies #flow #well
3 days ago
On August 14, RLX Technology (NYSE:RLX) reported second-quarter results that told two different stories at once. International sales climbed to roughly 70% of revenue as the company absorbed a new European distribution partner, even as trade normalization back home pulled growth down from where the year started. RLX is no longer just an e-vapor device maker. It is trying to become a diversified, direct-to-retail nicotine platform before its home market tightens further.
Net revenues reached RMB1.01 billion in the second quarter, up 14.8% year over year, powered by international volume growth and the contribution of a company RLX acquired in May 2025. Gross margin expanded to 35.4% from 27.5% a year earlier, a jump management credited to supply chain optimization and a better mix of products and geographies. Non-GAAP income from operations rose 28.8% to RMB149.6 million, marking the 11th straight quarter of positive non-GAAP operating profit.
In July 2026, RLX took a 51% controlling stake in a Western European distributor that reaches 30,000 retail endpoints and runs a digital ordering platform connecting 20,000 independent merchants, a deal management framed as the next step in building direct retail relationships rather than depending on layers of wholesalers. CEO Kate ****** argued that as vaping hardware becomes commoditized, "competition is shifting from pure product development to route-to-market execution."
The company is also leaning into modern oral nicotine pouches as a new growth line and is building a manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia to produce them at scale, all while sitting on RMB13.9 billion in total capital resources as of June 30, 2026.
The same quarter that produced margin expansion also produced warning signs closer to home. Mainland China revenue is now expected to be roughly flat for the full year, and Sam Tsang, the company's head of capital markets, said the "procedural time line for government approval has become more conservative" as domestic enforcement tightens. Revenue and margins both moderated sequentially from the first quarter, which had been inflated by a shipment pull-forward tied to regulatory export changes, and management flagged that the elevated 35.4% margin should settle into a lower range going forward.
#revenue #retail
Net revenues reached RMB1.01 billion in the second quarter, up 14.8% year over year, powered by international volume growth and the contribution of a company RLX acquired in May 2025. Gross margin expanded to 35.4% from 27.5% a year earlier, a jump management credited to supply chain optimization and a better mix of products and geographies. Non-GAAP income from operations rose 28.8% to RMB149.6 million, marking the 11th straight quarter of positive non-GAAP operating profit.
In July 2026, RLX took a 51% controlling stake in a Western European distributor that reaches 30,000 retail endpoints and runs a digital ordering platform connecting 20,000 independent merchants, a deal management framed as the next step in building direct retail relationships rather than depending on layers of wholesalers. CEO Kate ****** argued that as vaping hardware becomes commoditized, "competition is shifting from pure product development to route-to-market execution."
The company is also leaning into modern oral nicotine pouches as a new growth line and is building a manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia to produce them at scale, all while sitting on RMB13.9 billion in total capital resources as of June 30, 2026.
The same quarter that produced margin expansion also produced warning signs closer to home. Mainland China revenue is now expected to be roughly flat for the full year, and Sam Tsang, the company's head of capital markets, said the "procedural time line for government approval has become more conservative" as domestic enforcement tightens. Revenue and margins both moderated sequentially from the first quarter, which had been inflated by a shipment pull-forward tied to regulatory export changes, and management flagged that the elevated 35.4% margin should settle into a lower range going forward.
#revenue #retail
3 days ago
September Nymex natural gas (NGU26) on Thursday closed up +0.065 (+2.29%).
Nat-gas prices climbed to a 1-month high on Thursday and settled sharply higher on forecasts for hotter US weather, potentially boosting nat-gas demand from electricity providers to power increased air-conditioning use. Record high temperatures are expected across the Southwest through this weekend, and the Commodity Weather Group said on Thursday that above-average temperatures are expected across nearly the entire US from September 1-10.
Ag Market Surge: What's Driving the Buying in Corn, Wheat, and Soybeans to Multi-Year Highs?
Crude Oil Prices Slip on Hopes Strait of Hormuz to Reopen
Nat-Gas Prices Jump on Hot US Temps and Expectations of a Smaller Storage Build
#high #temperatures #across
Nat-gas prices climbed to a 1-month high on Thursday and settled sharply higher on forecasts for hotter US weather, potentially boosting nat-gas demand from electricity providers to power increased air-conditioning use. Record high temperatures are expected across the Southwest through this weekend, and the Commodity Weather Group said on Thursday that above-average temperatures are expected across nearly the entire US from September 1-10.
Ag Market Surge: What's Driving the Buying in Corn, Wheat, and Soybeans to Multi-Year Highs?
Crude Oil Prices Slip on Hopes Strait of Hormuz to Reopen
Nat-Gas Prices Jump on Hot US Temps and Expectations of a Smaller Storage Build
#high #temperatures #across
4 days ago
INGLEWOOD, CA – Preseason often isn't a precursor of what's to come during the regular season. For the Los Angeles Chargers offense, they hope it's not.
The Chargers first-team offense was stuck in neutral for its first two offensive series of the preseason.
Next the first-team unit went three-and-out against the San Francisco 49ers last week before they were subbed out. The unit got off to an even worse start in a 20-18 preseason loss on Thursday, Aug. 28, against its stadium-mate, the Los Angeles Rams.
Quarberback Justin Herbert botched a shotgun snap facing second-and-1 on his second play of the day. It was recovered by Rams undrafted rookie safety Nick Andersen.
Perhaps most alarming, the turnover came against a Rams defense made up of reserves and players battling for roster spots. Not exactly the rousing start for new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, the ex-Miami Dolphins head coach who was a hot commodity during the offseason's coaching hiring cycle.
#Rams #offense #team #start
The Chargers first-team offense was stuck in neutral for its first two offensive series of the preseason.
Next the first-team unit went three-and-out against the San Francisco 49ers last week before they were subbed out. The unit got off to an even worse start in a 20-18 preseason loss on Thursday, Aug. 28, against its stadium-mate, the Los Angeles Rams.
Quarberback Justin Herbert botched a shotgun snap facing second-and-1 on his second play of the day. It was recovered by Rams undrafted rookie safety Nick Andersen.
Perhaps most alarming, the turnover came against a Rams defense made up of reserves and players battling for roster spots. Not exactly the rousing start for new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, the ex-Miami Dolphins head coach who was a hot commodity during the offseason's coaching hiring cycle.
#Rams #offense #team #start
4 days ago
Our ******* ysts just identified a stock with the potential to be the next Nvidia. Tell us how you invest and we'll show you why it's our #1 pick. Tap here.
Performance was significantly bolstered by an $0.84 per share benefit from tariff refunds, which management is partially reinvesting into brand support and operational scaling.
Coffee volume growth remained resilient despite higher pricing, though management maintains a 'prudent' low single-digit volume decline outlook due to volatile green coffee commodities and consumer environment uncertainty.
The Uncrustables brand continues to serve as a primary growth engine, prompting an upward revision of full-year growth expectations to high single digits driven by retail and Away From Home momentum.
Dog snacks saw a solid recovery, specifically with Pup-Peroni growing 5% in net sales following a brand reset and sharper marketing execution at major retailers.
#single #NVIDIA #performance
Performance was significantly bolstered by an $0.84 per share benefit from tariff refunds, which management is partially reinvesting into brand support and operational scaling.
Coffee volume growth remained resilient despite higher pricing, though management maintains a 'prudent' low single-digit volume decline outlook due to volatile green coffee commodities and consumer environment uncertainty.
The Uncrustables brand continues to serve as a primary growth engine, prompting an upward revision of full-year growth expectations to high single digits driven by retail and Away From Home momentum.
Dog snacks saw a solid recovery, specifically with Pup-Peroni growing 5% in net sales following a brand reset and sharper marketing execution at major retailers.
#single #NVIDIA #performance
4 days ago
September Nymex natural gas (NGU26) on Wednesday closed up +0.072 (+2.60%).
Nat-gas prices rallied to a 1-month high on Wednesday and settled sharply higher. Forecasts for hot US weather that will boost nat-gas demand from electricity providers to power increased air-conditioning use pushed prices higher on Wednesday. The Commodity Weather Group said on Wednesday that forecasts shifted to hotter, with well-above-average temperatures expected across the eastern two-thirds of the US from August 31 through September 4.
NuScale Power Short Seller Profits Send Stark Warning to Investors
Crude Oil Prices Sharply Lower as Middle East Hostilities Subside
Will this Watson Wednesday be Driven by Wheat or Whisky?
#prices #power #nymex
Nat-gas prices rallied to a 1-month high on Wednesday and settled sharply higher. Forecasts for hot US weather that will boost nat-gas demand from electricity providers to power increased air-conditioning use pushed prices higher on Wednesday. The Commodity Weather Group said on Wednesday that forecasts shifted to hotter, with well-above-average temperatures expected across the eastern two-thirds of the US from August 31 through September 4.
NuScale Power Short Seller Profits Send Stark Warning to Investors
Crude Oil Prices Sharply Lower as Middle East Hostilities Subside
Will this Watson Wednesday be Driven by Wheat or Whisky?
#prices #power #nymex
5 days ago
Tennessee football won eight games in 2025, marking the first time it had failed to reach nine victories in a season since Josh Heupel was named coach of the Vols in 2021.
The Vols are set to face four ranked teams this season and a new nine-game SEC schedule while breaking in a freshman quarterback, so reestablishing the nine-win floor Heupel had set for this program won't be easy.
Here are the three games that will define the season for Tennessee football in 2026.
On paper and in the polls, UT looks like the better team and a likely favorite to knock off the Yellow Jackets, even on the road. But first-year quarterback Faizon Brandon will still be an unknown commodity by the time the Vols arrive in Atlanta for their second game.
The Vols host FCS foe Furman in the season opener on Sept. 5 (3:30 p.m., SEC Network+, ESPN+). and Brandon shouldn't expect to meet much resistance, nor to play four full quarters in that game. The SEC slate that follows promises to be tougher to navigate, but how Brandon reacts to a road environment at Bobby Dodd Stadium will say a lot about how truly ready he is to lead UT for the remainder of the season.
#brandon #nine #tennessee #first
The Vols are set to face four ranked teams this season and a new nine-game SEC schedule while breaking in a freshman quarterback, so reestablishing the nine-win floor Heupel had set for this program won't be easy.
Here are the three games that will define the season for Tennessee football in 2026.
On paper and in the polls, UT looks like the better team and a likely favorite to knock off the Yellow Jackets, even on the road. But first-year quarterback Faizon Brandon will still be an unknown commodity by the time the Vols arrive in Atlanta for their second game.
The Vols host FCS foe Furman in the season opener on Sept. 5 (3:30 p.m., SEC Network+, ESPN+). and Brandon shouldn't expect to meet much resistance, nor to play four full quarters in that game. The SEC slate that follows promises to be tougher to navigate, but how Brandon reacts to a road environment at Bobby Dodd Stadium will say a lot about how truly ready he is to lead UT for the remainder of the season.
#brandon #nine #tennessee #first
5 days ago
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) shares climbed 7.9% to close at $125.08 on August 19 as gold gained more than 2% and traded near $4,516 per ounce. The gold rally coincided with Treasury bond buybacks, lower yields and a weaker dollar. Whether historically elevated bullion prices can continue outrunning higher mining costs is now the central question.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) realized an average gold price of $4,414 per ounce in the second quarter. However, attributable gold production declined to 1.29 million ounces from 1.48 million ounces a year earlier. That combination leaves the company with exceptional commodity-price leverage but less support from production growth.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) generated $2.2 billion of free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure, and ended June with $9.0 billion of cash, $13.0 billion of liquidity and $3.4 billion of non-GAAP net cash. The balance sheet gives management substantial flexibility to return capital without sacrificing investment in its mines.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) also had $4.3 billion remaining under its $6.0 billion share-repurchase authorization. Continued buybacks at a time of strong cash generation could amplify the per-share benefit of elevated gold prices.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) has considerable sensitivity to further bullion gains. Newmont's 2026 sensitivity ******* ysis estimates that every $100-per-ounce change in gold prices affects pretax revenue and costs by approximately $505 million. Second-quarter realized pricing exceeded Newmont's non-GAAP gold by-product all-in sustaining costs of $1,621 per ounce by approximately $2,793 per ounce.
#billion #cash #prices
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) realized an average gold price of $4,414 per ounce in the second quarter. However, attributable gold production declined to 1.29 million ounces from 1.48 million ounces a year earlier. That combination leaves the company with exceptional commodity-price leverage but less support from production growth.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) generated $2.2 billion of free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure, and ended June with $9.0 billion of cash, $13.0 billion of liquidity and $3.4 billion of non-GAAP net cash. The balance sheet gives management substantial flexibility to return capital without sacrificing investment in its mines.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) also had $4.3 billion remaining under its $6.0 billion share-repurchase authorization. Continued buybacks at a time of strong cash generation could amplify the per-share benefit of elevated gold prices.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) has considerable sensitivity to further bullion gains. Newmont's 2026 sensitivity ******* ysis estimates that every $100-per-ounce change in gold prices affects pretax revenue and costs by approximately $505 million. Second-quarter realized pricing exceeded Newmont's non-GAAP gold by-product all-in sustaining costs of $1,621 per ounce by approximately $2,793 per ounce.
#billion #cash #prices
5 days ago
Orbis Investment Management, an investment management company, released its Q2 2026 investor letter for "Orbis Global Equity Strategy". The letter can be downloaded here. In the first half of 2026, the Global Equity Strategy returned 19.9%, surpassing the MSCI All Country World Index by 7.8%. The market faced narrow breadth in the quarter. The strategy focuses on AI investments categorized into four groups: "Core" (direct exposure), "Enablers" (supporting businesses), "AI Powered" (companies enhanced by AI), and "Overlooked" (misjudged resilient companies). The firm emphasizes maintaining strong but flexible convictions in a fluctuating market, prioritizing disciplined, evidence-based investment over emotional decision-making. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Orbis Global Equity Strategy highlighted Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO). Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm operating through Retail and Specialty Distribution segments. On August 24, 2026, Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) closed at $74.62 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $24.97 billion. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) posted a one‑month return of 1.32%, while its shares lost 22.31% over the past 52 weeks.
Orbis Global Equity Strategy stated the following regarding Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"The biggest winners have been concentrated in AI. But not all AI exposure is equal. We frame ours in four groups. The first is the "Core": direct exposure through companies like Samsung Electronics, Taiwan Semiconductor, and SK Square. The second is "Enablers": the businesses providing the power, materials, and real estate that hyperscalers need to operate. The third is AI "Powered": companies where AI accelerates an already compelling model, like Alphabet. The fourth is the "Overlooked": resilient businesses the market has mispriced as AI casualties. The first three are widely understood. The fourth is where we believe the market is most wrong, and where we are hunting.
Take insurance brokerage. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) and Ryan Specialty are brokers: they sit between companies and insurers, matching clients to the right coverage and placing it for a fee, without carrying the risk themselves. Both are priced as AI casualties. Two fears weigh on the stocks: a softening pricing cycle and AI disintermediation. The pricing cycle is already in the price. On AI, we disagree. AI may automate commodity cover like personal auto, but that is under 5% of Brown & Brown's book. The rest is commercial and specialty insurance, where the broker exercises judgement and answers for a denied claim. It is a people business, and Brown & Brown has spent more than eighty years serving mid sized companies that lack the in-house expertise in insurance."
#strategy #Equity
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Orbis Global Equity Strategy highlighted Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO). Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm operating through Retail and Specialty Distribution segments. On August 24, 2026, Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) closed at $74.62 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $24.97 billion. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) posted a one‑month return of 1.32%, while its shares lost 22.31% over the past 52 weeks.
Orbis Global Equity Strategy stated the following regarding Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"The biggest winners have been concentrated in AI. But not all AI exposure is equal. We frame ours in four groups. The first is the "Core": direct exposure through companies like Samsung Electronics, Taiwan Semiconductor, and SK Square. The second is "Enablers": the businesses providing the power, materials, and real estate that hyperscalers need to operate. The third is AI "Powered": companies where AI accelerates an already compelling model, like Alphabet. The fourth is the "Overlooked": resilient businesses the market has mispriced as AI casualties. The first three are widely understood. The fourth is where we believe the market is most wrong, and where we are hunting.
Take insurance brokerage. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) and Ryan Specialty are brokers: they sit between companies and insurers, matching clients to the right coverage and placing it for a fee, without carrying the risk themselves. Both are priced as AI casualties. Two fears weigh on the stocks: a softening pricing cycle and AI disintermediation. The pricing cycle is already in the price. On AI, we disagree. AI may automate commodity cover like personal auto, but that is under 5% of Brown & Brown's book. The rest is commercial and specialty insurance, where the broker exercises judgement and answers for a denied claim. It is a people business, and Brown & Brown has spent more than eighty years serving mid sized companies that lack the in-house expertise in insurance."
#strategy #Equity
5 days ago
Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN) jumped 10% on August 19 as Bitcoin gained approximately 6% as of writing and traded at its highest level since early June. The rally followed a White House meeting where President Donald Trump urged Congress to pass a "fair version" of the CLARITY Act. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong joined other cryptocurrency executives and financial regulators at the meeting.
The stock move combined two powerful drivers: cryptocurrency prices and regulatory expectations. Yet the latest results showed why Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN) still needs both. Second-quarter revenue declined 19% to $1.22 billion as weaker crypto prices and trading activity pressured results. The company reported a $359.5 million net loss that included a $209.5 million loss on crypto **** ets held for investment and $52.4 million of restructuring expense.
The question is whether Washington can give Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN) enough regulatory operating leverage to reduce its dependence on the next Bitcoin rally.
The CLARITY Act would establish clearer jurisdiction between the SEC and CFTC while creating a federal registration framework for digital-commodity exchanges, brokers, and dealers. For Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN), clearer classifications could reduce uncertainty around **** et listings and make institutions more comfortable with trading, custody, and tokenized products.
The platform is also broader than it was during earlier cryptocurrency cycles. Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN) said its company-defined crypto trading-volume market share reached a record 10.3% in the second quarter, up from 9.1% in the first quarter. Subscription and services revenue totaled $555 million and represented 48% of net revenue, while average USDC held in Coinbase products reached a record $20 billion.
#quarter #Crypto
The stock move combined two powerful drivers: cryptocurrency prices and regulatory expectations. Yet the latest results showed why Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN) still needs both. Second-quarter revenue declined 19% to $1.22 billion as weaker crypto prices and trading activity pressured results. The company reported a $359.5 million net loss that included a $209.5 million loss on crypto **** ets held for investment and $52.4 million of restructuring expense.
The question is whether Washington can give Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN) enough regulatory operating leverage to reduce its dependence on the next Bitcoin rally.
The CLARITY Act would establish clearer jurisdiction between the SEC and CFTC while creating a federal registration framework for digital-commodity exchanges, brokers, and dealers. For Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN), clearer classifications could reduce uncertainty around **** et listings and make institutions more comfortable with trading, custody, and tokenized products.
The platform is also broader than it was during earlier cryptocurrency cycles. Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN) said its company-defined crypto trading-volume market share reached a record 10.3% in the second quarter, up from 9.1% in the first quarter. Subscription and services revenue totaled $555 million and represented 48% of net revenue, while average USDC held in Coinbase products reached a record $20 billion.
#quarter #Crypto
5 days ago
Home prices rose again in June as mortgage rates stabilized during the typical peak period for buying and selling.
The S&P Cotality Case-Shiller 20-City Composite Home Price Index, which measures home prices in 20 of the nation's largest metropolitan areas, increased 2.1% in June from a year earlier, according to data released Tuesday.
The national index, which includes more metro areas, jumped 1.5%.
"While home prices continue to decline in real terms, lower inflation and firmer nominal home price growth in June helped slow that pace of erosion," Rebecca Kaufman, ***** ociate director of commodities at S&P Dow Jones Indices, said in a statement.
Mortgage rates held steady around 6.5% in June, a level high enough to sideline many prospective buyers and sellers. But those who remained in the market enjoyed a period of stability after rates rose rapidly in the spring.
#home #areas
The S&P Cotality Case-Shiller 20-City Composite Home Price Index, which measures home prices in 20 of the nation's largest metropolitan areas, increased 2.1% in June from a year earlier, according to data released Tuesday.
The national index, which includes more metro areas, jumped 1.5%.
"While home prices continue to decline in real terms, lower inflation and firmer nominal home price growth in June helped slow that pace of erosion," Rebecca Kaufman, ***** ociate director of commodities at S&P Dow Jones Indices, said in a statement.
Mortgage rates held steady around 6.5% in June, a level high enough to sideline many prospective buyers and sellers. But those who remained in the market enjoyed a period of stability after rates rose rapidly in the spring.
#home #areas
6 days ago
Fantasy football draft season is kicking into gear, which means we're all searching for rankings to help us with our drafts or collect insights to modify our rankings. Last week, I put out my pre-season DST rankings, but I wanted to put out a separate article just looking at early-season schedules.
A lot of the time, people will say, "Who cares? I just stream" or "Just take whoever's left in the last round." I do believe we can maximize the effectiveness of our drafts with just a touch of strategy. Drafting a D/ST doesn't have the same make-or-break consequence as drafting your first-round wide receiver or your sleeper RB in the middle rounds, but it is still a decision with ripple effects that can cost you one week or potentially more during your season.
Below, I'll give you some of my favorite defenses to target in fantasy football drafts this summer, but I also wanted to touch on my general strategy for drafting defenses. This is a strategy discussion I had in my other article as well, so if you read that, you can skip to the early-season defenses section.
GET YOUR FREE ROTOWORLD FANTASY FOOTBALL DRAFT KIT HERE!
Before I get into the specific teams, I did want to briefly mention my general strategy for drafting defenses.
#season #drafting #strategy #draft
A lot of the time, people will say, "Who cares? I just stream" or "Just take whoever's left in the last round." I do believe we can maximize the effectiveness of our drafts with just a touch of strategy. Drafting a D/ST doesn't have the same make-or-break consequence as drafting your first-round wide receiver or your sleeper RB in the middle rounds, but it is still a decision with ripple effects that can cost you one week or potentially more during your season.
Below, I'll give you some of my favorite defenses to target in fantasy football drafts this summer, but I also wanted to touch on my general strategy for drafting defenses. This is a strategy discussion I had in my other article as well, so if you read that, you can skip to the early-season defenses section.
GET YOUR FREE ROTOWORLD FANTASY FOOTBALL DRAFT KIT HERE!
Before I get into the specific teams, I did want to briefly mention my general strategy for drafting defenses.
#season #drafting #strategy #draft
6 days ago
Key Takeaways
The Blockchain ******* ociation urged the SEC and CFTC to create a coordinated US framework for equity perpetual contracts.
It proposed regulating equity perpetuals under existing security-futures rules, arguing that no new legislation is necessary.
The group warned that continued regulatory uncertainty will push liquidity, jobs, market data and innovation further offshore.
The Blockchain ******* ociation has called on the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to create a coordinated regulatory pathway for equity perpetual contracts in the United States.
#Equity #commission
The Blockchain ******* ociation urged the SEC and CFTC to create a coordinated US framework for equity perpetual contracts.
It proposed regulating equity perpetuals under existing security-futures rules, arguing that no new legislation is necessary.
The group warned that continued regulatory uncertainty will push liquidity, jobs, market data and innovation further offshore.
The Blockchain ******* ociation has called on the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to create a coordinated regulatory pathway for equity perpetual contracts in the United States.
#Equity #commission
6 days ago
Deere & Company (NYSE:DE) delivered a stronger-than-expected third quarter, with the company benefiting from a surprising source: the construction boom linked to AI data centers and infrastructure spending. Construction & Forestry sales increased 18% year over year, making it the company's fastest-growing major segment. Deere also reported a 7% increase in quarterly net income to $1.38 billion, while EPS rose to $5.10 from $4.75 a year earlier.
The improvement was enough for Deere to raise its 2026 net income outlook to $4.75 billion-$5 billion, up from the previous lower end of $4.5 billion. The company also continues to believe that 2026 will mark the bottom of the current agricultural equipment cycle.
Still, Deere & Company (NYSE:DE)'s core farm-equipment business remains under pressure. Production & Precision Agriculture sales fell 6% in the quarter as farmers continue to deal with weak commodity prices and difficult farm economics. At the same time, Small Agriculture & Turf sales increased 12%, helped by better milk and beef prices.
The biggest reason to be bullish on Deere & Company (NYSE:DE) is the growing strength of its construction business. The 18% increase in Construction & Forestry sales shows that the company is benefiting from spending that has little to do with the current farm cycle. AI data-center construction, infrastructure projects, and other large-scale development are creating demand for Deere's equipment. The company says customer backlogs now extend well into fiscal 2027, giving it strong visibility into future demand.
This diversification could become particularly valuable if the agricultural market takes longer to recover. Deere does not need its farm-equipment business to rebound immediately for the company to continue generating solid earnings. Construction is currently helping fill that gap, while the 12% increase in Small Agriculture & Turf sales provides another source of support.
#deere #sales #farm #agriculture
The improvement was enough for Deere to raise its 2026 net income outlook to $4.75 billion-$5 billion, up from the previous lower end of $4.5 billion. The company also continues to believe that 2026 will mark the bottom of the current agricultural equipment cycle.
Still, Deere & Company (NYSE:DE)'s core farm-equipment business remains under pressure. Production & Precision Agriculture sales fell 6% in the quarter as farmers continue to deal with weak commodity prices and difficult farm economics. At the same time, Small Agriculture & Turf sales increased 12%, helped by better milk and beef prices.
The biggest reason to be bullish on Deere & Company (NYSE:DE) is the growing strength of its construction business. The 18% increase in Construction & Forestry sales shows that the company is benefiting from spending that has little to do with the current farm cycle. AI data-center construction, infrastructure projects, and other large-scale development are creating demand for Deere's equipment. The company says customer backlogs now extend well into fiscal 2027, giving it strong visibility into future demand.
This diversification could become particularly valuable if the agricultural market takes longer to recover. Deere does not need its farm-equipment business to rebound immediately for the company to continue generating solid earnings. Construction is currently helping fill that gap, while the 12% increase in Small Agriculture & Turf sales provides another source of support.
#deere #sales #farm #agriculture
6 days ago
Investors poured more than $56 billion into US-listed ETFs during the week ending Aug. 21, lifting year-to-date inflows past $1.3 trillion.
US equity ETFs took in about half the total at $25 billion. US fixed income added $12.5 billion, international equity funds gathered $5.6 billion, and international fixed income took in $2.5 billion.
Commodity ETFs were the notable standout, pulling in almost $5 billion, while currency funds at $2.2 billion and alternatives at $2.8 billion also had strong weeks.
The S&P 500 slipped a little over 1% last week, pulling back from the record highs it had set the week before. Bonds stayed under pressure even after the Treasury Department moved to support the market, announcing it would double the size of its long-dated debt buybacks.
Yields fell briefly on the news but quickly reversed, leaving the 30-year Treasury yield not far from the 19-year high above 5.3% it reached on Aug. 17.
The Treasury's attempts to keep long-term yields down revived the so-called debasement trade. The SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) took in $3.4 billion and the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) added more than $1 billion as both gold and bitcoin spiked. Gold is now back in the green, up around 8% on the year after spending much of the summer underwater. IBIT remains down about 10% in 2026, though that is a marked improvement from the 33% loss it was nursing at its worst point in June.
On the other side of the ledger, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) led outflows, shedding $1.7 billion. Semiconductor stocks have been treading water lately, chopping up and down after starting the third quarter under pressure.
The broader AI trade remains intact, but it has grown increasingly volatile as investors go back and forth over whether the rally is sustainable and whether the group has already peaked.
For a full list of last week's top inflows and outflows, see the tables below
Ticker
Name
Net Flows ($, mm)
AUM ($, mm)
#etfs #year #took #down
US equity ETFs took in about half the total at $25 billion. US fixed income added $12.5 billion, international equity funds gathered $5.6 billion, and international fixed income took in $2.5 billion.
Commodity ETFs were the notable standout, pulling in almost $5 billion, while currency funds at $2.2 billion and alternatives at $2.8 billion also had strong weeks.
The S&P 500 slipped a little over 1% last week, pulling back from the record highs it had set the week before. Bonds stayed under pressure even after the Treasury Department moved to support the market, announcing it would double the size of its long-dated debt buybacks.
Yields fell briefly on the news but quickly reversed, leaving the 30-year Treasury yield not far from the 19-year high above 5.3% it reached on Aug. 17.
The Treasury's attempts to keep long-term yields down revived the so-called debasement trade. The SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) took in $3.4 billion and the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) added more than $1 billion as both gold and bitcoin spiked. Gold is now back in the green, up around 8% on the year after spending much of the summer underwater. IBIT remains down about 10% in 2026, though that is a marked improvement from the 33% loss it was nursing at its worst point in June.
On the other side of the ledger, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) led outflows, shedding $1.7 billion. Semiconductor stocks have been treading water lately, chopping up and down after starting the third quarter under pressure.
The broader AI trade remains intact, but it has grown increasingly volatile as investors go back and forth over whether the rally is sustainable and whether the group has already peaked.
For a full list of last week's top inflows and outflows, see the tables below
Ticker
Name
Net Flows ($, mm)
AUM ($, mm)
#etfs #year #took #down
6 days ago
ADNOC has awarded McDermott a contract worth more than $1 billion for a major offshore pressure-boosting facility at Abu Dhabi's Umm Shaif field, as the UAE accelerates investment in natural gas production.
The engineering, procurement, construction and installation contract covers Package 4 of ADNOC's Umm Shaif Integrated Gas Cap and Surface Pressure Boosting Project. McDermott and its Qingdao McDermott Wuchuan consortium will construct and install a new jacket and topside while modifying existing offshore infrastructure.
McDermott did not disclose the exact contract value but classified it as a "mega" award, which the company defines as exceeding $1 billion. The company said the completed topside will be among the heaviest offshore modules ever installed in the Middle East.
The contract follows ADNOC's $6.2-billion final investment decision in July to develop the Umm Shaif Gas Cap alongside TotalEnergies, Eni and China National Petroleum Corporation. The wider project includes three EPC contracts worth a combined $5.1 billion and a 14-well drilling program.
ADNOC expects the development to unlock more than 600 million standard cubic feet per day of natural gas and ***** ociated liquids, equivalent to roughly 10% of current UAE domestic gas consumption. First production is targeted for 2030.
#mcdermott
The engineering, procurement, construction and installation contract covers Package 4 of ADNOC's Umm Shaif Integrated Gas Cap and Surface Pressure Boosting Project. McDermott and its Qingdao McDermott Wuchuan consortium will construct and install a new jacket and topside while modifying existing offshore infrastructure.
McDermott did not disclose the exact contract value but classified it as a "mega" award, which the company defines as exceeding $1 billion. The company said the completed topside will be among the heaviest offshore modules ever installed in the Middle East.
The contract follows ADNOC's $6.2-billion final investment decision in July to develop the Umm Shaif Gas Cap alongside TotalEnergies, Eni and China National Petroleum Corporation. The wider project includes three EPC contracts worth a combined $5.1 billion and a 14-well drilling program.
ADNOC expects the development to unlock more than 600 million standard cubic feet per day of natural gas and ***** ociated liquids, equivalent to roughly 10% of current UAE domestic gas consumption. First production is targeted for 2030.
#mcdermott
6 days ago
Aoris Investment Management, a specialist international equity manager, released its Q2 2026 investor letter for "Aoris International Fund". A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The fund invests in high-quality, wealth-generating businesses managed by prudent and capable teams, targeting an annual return of 8–12% after fees over a 5–7-year market cycle. During the June quarter, international equity markets, as represented by the MSCI AC World Accumulation Index ex Australia, returned 13.8% in AUD terms. In local currencies, the return 15.1%. The Portfolio's Class A (Unhedged) returned 5.7% after fees, underperforming its benchmark by 8.1%, while the Class C (Hedged) gained 6.7%, 8.4% less than its benchmark. The June quarter continued to reflect an unusual year, marked by significant share price increases among AI infrastructure companies, particularly semiconductor producers and data center suppliers. Economic sectors like banks and commodity producers saw gains, but the firm chose not to invest due to their cyclicality and low growth prospects. Conversely, concerns about enterprise software and data companies, challenged by AI, negatively impacted performance. The letter outlined potential incremental opportunities for portfolio companies through AI. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS). Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) engages in the provision of corporate identity uniforms and related business services. On August 21, 2026, Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) closed at $203.79 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $81.55 billion. Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) posted a one‑month return of -3.41%, while its shares lost 3.81% over the past 52 weeks.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) is America's largest uniform rental company. It earns 40% of its revenue from collecting, laundering and replacing uniforms for customers in industries such as hospitality, entertainment, manufacturing and healthcare. It also offers other facility services like the laundering of entrance mats, replenishment of restroom supplies, and monitoring of first aid kits and fire protection equipment.
Cintas has long used technology to improve service and efficiency, such as the SmartTruck system, which optimises its technicians' workday routes, and garment-tracking technology to reduce the likelihood of lost uniforms. AI should be another tool for Cintas to improve its logistics, service quality, sales effectiveness and cost control…" (Click here to read the full text)
#aoris #investor
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS). Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) engages in the provision of corporate identity uniforms and related business services. On August 21, 2026, Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) closed at $203.79 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $81.55 billion. Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) posted a one‑month return of -3.41%, while its shares lost 3.81% over the past 52 weeks.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ:CTAS) is America's largest uniform rental company. It earns 40% of its revenue from collecting, laundering and replacing uniforms for customers in industries such as hospitality, entertainment, manufacturing and healthcare. It also offers other facility services like the laundering of entrance mats, replenishment of restroom supplies, and monitoring of first aid kits and fire protection equipment.
Cintas has long used technology to improve service and efficiency, such as the SmartTruck system, which optimises its technicians' workday routes, and garment-tracking technology to reduce the likelihood of lost uniforms. AI should be another tool for Cintas to improve its logistics, service quality, sales effectiveness and cost control…" (Click here to read the full text)
#aoris #investor
6 days ago
Aoris Investment Management, a specialist international equity manager, released its Q2 2026 investor letter for "Aoris International Fund". A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The fund invests in high-quality, wealth-generating businesses managed by prudent and capable teams, targeting an annual return of 8–12% after fees over a 5–7-year market cycle. During the June quarter, international equity markets, as represented by the MSCI AC World Accumulation Index ex Australia, returned 13.8% in AUD terms. In local currencies, the return 15.1%. The Portfolio's Class A (Unhedged) returned 5.7% after fees, underperforming its benchmark by 8.1%, while the Class C (Hedged) gained 6.7%, 8.4% less than its benchmark. The June quarter continued to reflect an unusual year, marked by significant share price increases among AI infrastructure companies, particularly semiconductor producers and data center suppliers. Economic sectors like banks and commodity producers saw gains, but the firm chose not to invest due to their cyclicality and low growth prospects. Conversely, concerns about enterprise software and data companies, challenged by AI, negatively impacted performance. The letter outlined potential incremental opportunities for portfolio companies through AI. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted SAP SE (NYSE:SAP). Headquartered in Walldorf, Germany, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) is a leading enterprise application and business solutions provider. On August 21, 2026, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) closed at $218.68 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $256.39 billion. SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) posted a one-month return of 27.88%, while its shares lost 19.09% over the past 52 weeks.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) is the world's leading enterprise resource planning (ERP) software company. ERP systems run core business processes such as finance, human resources, manufacturing, supply chain management and customer relationship management. SAP is a core system of record for many of the world's largest organisations. Of the world's 100 largest organisations, 99 use SAP's solutions, and 80% of all the world's transactions touch an SAP system.
The value of SAP's systems should increase, because AI is only useful when it can access accurate data, business context and established workflows. AI is providing opportunities for SAP to layer on additional services which the company believes can add 20% or more to a customer's spending. Examples include its Business Data Cloud, which brings together SAP and non-SAP data for real-time ******* ysis, and its Joule AI agent, which can automate work with an understanding of customers' existing data structures and processes…" (Click here to read the full text)
#NYSE
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted SAP SE (NYSE:SAP). Headquartered in Walldorf, Germany, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) is a leading enterprise application and business solutions provider. On August 21, 2026, SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) closed at $218.68 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $256.39 billion. SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) posted a one-month return of 27.88%, while its shares lost 19.09% over the past 52 weeks.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"SAP SE (NYSE:SAP) is the world's leading enterprise resource planning (ERP) software company. ERP systems run core business processes such as finance, human resources, manufacturing, supply chain management and customer relationship management. SAP is a core system of record for many of the world's largest organisations. Of the world's 100 largest organisations, 99 use SAP's solutions, and 80% of all the world's transactions touch an SAP system.
The value of SAP's systems should increase, because AI is only useful when it can access accurate data, business context and established workflows. AI is providing opportunities for SAP to layer on additional services which the company believes can add 20% or more to a customer's spending. Examples include its Business Data Cloud, which brings together SAP and non-SAP data for real-time ******* ysis, and its Joule AI agent, which can automate work with an understanding of customers' existing data structures and processes…" (Click here to read the full text)
#NYSE
6 days ago
Aoris Investment Management, a specialist international equity manager, released its Q2 2026 investor letter for "Aoris International Fund". A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The fund invests in high-quality, wealth-generating businesses managed by prudent and capable teams, targeting an annual return of 8–12% after fees over a 5–7-year market cycle. During the June quarter, international equity markets, as represented by the MSCI AC World Accumulation Index ex Australia, returned 13.8% in AUD terms. In local currencies, the return 15.1%. The Portfolio's Class A (Unhedged) returned 5.7% after fees, underperforming its benchmark by 8.1%, while the Class C (Hedged) gained 6.7%, 8.4% less than its benchmark. The June quarter continued to reflect an unusual year, marked by significant share price increases among AI infrastructure companies, particularly semiconductor producers and data center suppliers. Economic sectors like banks and commodity producers saw gains, but the firm chose not to invest due to their cyclicality and low growth prospects. Conversely, concerns about enterprise software and data companies, challenged by AI, negatively impacted performance. The letter outlined potential incremental opportunities for portfolio companies through AI. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG). InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) is a leading hospitality company owns, manages, franchises, and leases hotels globally. On August 21, 2026, InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) closed at $159.91 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $23.55 billion. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) posted a one‑month return of 0.25%, while its shares gained 32.18% over the past 52 weeks.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) is a brand owner and franchisor of global hotel chains, including Holiday Inn, InterContinental and Crowne Plaza. Hotel owners pay IHG a franchise fee in exchange for access to its brands, loyalty program, and IT systems to help manage their properties, reservations and pricing. IHG franchisees earn better economics than independent hotels, which is why an increasing share of new and existing hotels are choosing to partner with IHG.
IHG's technology systems are a core advantage over smaller chains and independent hotels. AI can widen this gap through improvements in its search functions, booking process, customer service, pricing, marketing, and operational efficiency. For example, IHG is developing AI-powered conversational search to help guests book properties and receive more detailed information about its franchisees' rooms and services.…" (Click here to read the full text)
#NYSE
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG). InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) is a leading hospitality company owns, manages, franchises, and leases hotels globally. On August 21, 2026, InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) closed at $159.91 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $23.55 billion. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) posted a one‑month return of 0.25%, while its shares gained 32.18% over the past 52 weeks.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (NYSE:IHG) is a brand owner and franchisor of global hotel chains, including Holiday Inn, InterContinental and Crowne Plaza. Hotel owners pay IHG a franchise fee in exchange for access to its brands, loyalty program, and IT systems to help manage their properties, reservations and pricing. IHG franchisees earn better economics than independent hotels, which is why an increasing share of new and existing hotels are choosing to partner with IHG.
IHG's technology systems are a core advantage over smaller chains and independent hotels. AI can widen this gap through improvements in its search functions, booking process, customer service, pricing, marketing, and operational efficiency. For example, IHG is developing AI-powered conversational search to help guests book properties and receive more detailed information about its franchisees' rooms and services.…" (Click here to read the full text)
#NYSE
6 days ago
Aoris Investment Management, a specialist international equity manager, released its Q2 2026 investor letter for "Aoris International Fund". A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The fund invests in high-quality, wealth-generating businesses managed by prudent and capable teams, targeting an annual return of 8–12% after fees over a 5–7-year market cycle. During the June quarter, international equity markets, as represented by the MSCI AC World Accumulation Index ex Australia, returned 13.8% in AUD terms. In local currencies, the return 15.1%. The Portfolio's Class A (Unhedged) returned 5.7% after fees, underperforming its benchmark by 8.1%, while the Class C (Hedged) gained 6.7%, 8.4% less than its benchmark. The June quarter continued to reflect an unusual year, marked by significant share price increases among AI infrastructure companies, particularly semiconductor producers and data center suppliers. Economic sectors like banks and commodity producers saw gains, but the firm chose not to invest due to their cyclicality and low growth prospects. Conversely, concerns about enterprise software and data companies, challenged by AI, negatively impacted performance. The letter outlined potential incremental opportunities for portfolio companies through AI. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX). RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) is a British-based information ****** ytics and decision solutions provider for professional and business customers. On August 21, 2026, RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) stock closed at $35.91 per share. One-month return of RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) was 0.73%, and its shares lost 24.86% over the past 52 weeks. RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) has a market capitalization of $62.03 billion.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) provides data, ****** ytics and decision-making tools for professional users in the science, academia, legal, risk and insurance industries. One-third of its revenue comes from scientific content and research tools, one-third comes from risk management solutions like identity verification and anti-money laundering, 20% comes from content and tools for the legal industry, and 10% comes from running trade exhibitions.
RELX owns and curates large bodies of proprietary and authoritative content, which has become more valuable as the internet is largely exhausted as a training resource for AI models. Legal work is especially well-suited to generative AI because it's language-intensive, but also an area where accuracy matters. RELX's AI products help lawyers research, draft and conduct due diligence faster, while remaining anchored to trusted legal content. Just two and a half years after launch, around half of its legal customers have subscribed to its premium AI offering. AI is also making frau
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX). RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) is a British-based information ****** ytics and decision solutions provider for professional and business customers. On August 21, 2026, RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) stock closed at $35.91 per share. One-month return of RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) was 0.73%, and its shares lost 24.86% over the past 52 weeks. RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) has a market capitalization of $62.03 billion.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"RELX PLC (NYSE:RELX) provides data, ****** ytics and decision-making tools for professional users in the science, academia, legal, risk and insurance industries. One-third of its revenue comes from scientific content and research tools, one-third comes from risk management solutions like identity verification and anti-money laundering, 20% comes from content and tools for the legal industry, and 10% comes from running trade exhibitions.
RELX owns and curates large bodies of proprietary and authoritative content, which has become more valuable as the internet is largely exhausted as a training resource for AI models. Legal work is especially well-suited to generative AI because it's language-intensive, but also an area where accuracy matters. RELX's AI products help lawyers research, draft and conduct due diligence faster, while remaining anchored to trusted legal content. Just two and a half years after launch, around half of its legal customers have subscribed to its premium AI offering. AI is also making frau
6 days ago
Aoris Investment Management, a specialist international equity manager, released its Q2 2026 investor letter for "Aoris International Fund". A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The fund invests in high-quality, wealth-generating businesses managed by prudent and capable teams, targeting an annual return of 8–12% after fees over a 5–7-year market cycle. During the June quarter, international equity markets, as represented by the MSCI AC World Accumulation Index ex Australia, returned 13.8% in AUD terms. In local currencies, the return 15.1%. The Portfolio's Class A (Unhedged) returned 5.7% after fees, underperforming its benchmark by 8.1%, while the Class C (Hedged) gained 6.7%, 8.4% less than its benchmark. The June quarter continued to reflect an unusual year, marked by significant share price increases among AI infrastructure companies, particularly semiconductor producers and data center suppliers. Economic sectors like banks and commodity producers saw gains, but the firm chose not to invest due to their cyclicality and low growth prospects. Conversely, concerns about enterprise software and data companies, challenged by AI, negatively impacted performance. The letter outlined potential incremental opportunities for portfolio companies through AI. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could help identify its best picks for 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted Visa Inc. (NYSE:V). Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) is a multinational financial services company known for its payment technology network that offers credit, debit, and prepaid card products and other services. On August 21, 2026, Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) closed at $371.04 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $692.74 billion. Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) posted a one‑month return of 2.35%, while its shares gained 6.37% over the past 52 weeks.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) is the world's largest payment network, enabling consumers and businesses to transact with over 130 million merchants globally in a convenient and secure way. It earns 70% of its revenue by charging fixed and percentage-based fees on transactions processed over its network. The other 30% comes from a range of payment-related services that help financial institutions and merchants to reduce fraud, improve back-office efficiency, increase sales and deepen customer loyalty.
If AI agents start making purchases on behalf of consumers and businesses, which is known as agentic commerce, then Visa's secure credentials, fraud controls, acceptance, dispute resolution and trusted network rules will become increasingly important. More digital commerce usually means more transactions, which would benefit Visa's transaction-based fees. Agentic commerce may also accelerate Visa's market share gains against domestic card networks like Eftpos, many of which still aren't accepted for onl
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Aoris Investment Management highlighted Visa Inc. (NYSE:V). Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) is a multinational financial services company known for its payment technology network that offers credit, debit, and prepaid card products and other services. On August 21, 2026, Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) closed at $371.04 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $692.74 billion. Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) posted a one‑month return of 2.35%, while its shares gained 6.37% over the past 52 weeks.
Aoris Investment Management stated the following regarding Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) is the world's largest payment network, enabling consumers and businesses to transact with over 130 million merchants globally in a convenient and secure way. It earns 70% of its revenue by charging fixed and percentage-based fees on transactions processed over its network. The other 30% comes from a range of payment-related services that help financial institutions and merchants to reduce fraud, improve back-office efficiency, increase sales and deepen customer loyalty.
If AI agents start making purchases on behalf of consumers and businesses, which is known as agentic commerce, then Visa's secure credentials, fraud controls, acceptance, dispute resolution and trusted network rules will become increasingly important. More digital commerce usually means more transactions, which would benefit Visa's transaction-based fees. Agentic commerce may also accelerate Visa's market share gains against domestic card networks like Eftpos, many of which still aren't accepted for onl
6 days ago
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) shares climbed 7.9% to close at $125.08 on August 19 as gold gained more than 2% and traded near $4,516 per ounce. The gold rally coincided with Treasury bond buybacks, lower yields and a weaker dollar. Whether historically elevated bullion prices can continue outrunning higher mining costs is now the central question.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) realized an average gold price of $4,414 per ounce in the second quarter. However, attributable gold production declined to 1.29 million ounces from 1.48 million ounces a year earlier. That combination leaves the company with exceptional commodity-price leverage but less support from production growth.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) generated $2.2 billion of free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure, and ended June with $9.0 billion of cash, $13.0 billion of liquidity and $3.4 billion of non-GAAP net cash. The balance sheet gives management substantial flexibility to return capital without sacrificing investment in its mines.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) also had $4.3 billion remaining under its $6.0 billion share-repurchase authorization. Continued buybacks at a time of strong cash generation could amplify the per-share benefit of elevated gold prices.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) has considerable sensitivity to further bullion gains. Newmont's 2026 sensitivity ***** ysis estimates that every $100-per-ounce change in gold prices affects pretax revenue and costs by approximately $505 million. Second-quarter realized pricing exceeded Newmont's non-GAAP gold by-product all-in sustaining costs of $1,621 per ounce by approximately $2,793 per ounce.
#newmont #prices #costs
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) realized an average gold price of $4,414 per ounce in the second quarter. However, attributable gold production declined to 1.29 million ounces from 1.48 million ounces a year earlier. That combination leaves the company with exceptional commodity-price leverage but less support from production growth.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) generated $2.2 billion of free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure, and ended June with $9.0 billion of cash, $13.0 billion of liquidity and $3.4 billion of non-GAAP net cash. The balance sheet gives management substantial flexibility to return capital without sacrificing investment in its mines.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) also had $4.3 billion remaining under its $6.0 billion share-repurchase authorization. Continued buybacks at a time of strong cash generation could amplify the per-share benefit of elevated gold prices.
Newmont Corporation (NYSE:NEM) has considerable sensitivity to further bullion gains. Newmont's 2026 sensitivity ***** ysis estimates that every $100-per-ounce change in gold prices affects pretax revenue and costs by approximately $505 million. Second-quarter realized pricing exceeded Newmont's non-GAAP gold by-product all-in sustaining costs of $1,621 per ounce by approximately $2,793 per ounce.
#newmont #prices #costs
6 days ago
Orbis Investment Management, an investment management company, released its Q2 2026 investor letter for "Orbis Global Equity Strategy". The letter can be downloaded here. In the first half of 2026, the Global Equity Strategy returned 19.9%, surpassing the MSCI All Country World Index by 7.8%. The market faced narrow breadth in the quarter. The strategy focuses on AI investments categorized into four groups: "Core" (direct exposure), "Enablers" (supporting businesses), "AI Powered" (companies enhanced by AI), and "Overlooked" (misjudged resilient companies). The firm emphasizes maintaining strong but flexible convictions in a fluctuating market, prioritizing disciplined, evidence-based investment over emotional decision-making. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Orbis Global Equity Strategy highlighted Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO). Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm operating through Retail and Specialty Distribution segments. On August 24, 2026, Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) closed at $74.62 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $24.97 billion. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) posted a one‑month return of 1.32%, while its shares lost 22.31% over the past 52 weeks.
Orbis Global Equity Strategy stated the following regarding Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"The biggest winners have been concentrated in AI. But not all AI exposure is equal. We frame ours in four groups. The first is the "Core": direct exposure through companies like Samsung Electronics, Taiwan Semiconductor, and SK Square. The second is "Enablers": the businesses providing the power, materials, and real estate that hyperscalers need to operate. The third is AI "Powered": companies where AI accelerates an already compelling model, like Alphabet. The fourth is the "Overlooked": resilient businesses the market has mispriced as AI casualties. The first three are widely understood. The fourth is where we believe the market is most wrong, and where we are hunting.
Take insurance brokerage. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) and Ryan Specialty are brokers: they sit between companies and insurers, matching clients to the right coverage and placing it for a fee, without carrying the risk themselves. Both are priced as AI casualties. Two fears weigh on the stocks: a softening pricing cycle and AI disintermediation. The pricing cycle is already in the price. On AI, we disagree. AI may automate commodity cover like personal auto, but that is under 5% of Brown & Brown's book. The rest is commercial and specialty insurance, where the broker exercises judgement and answers for a denied claim. It is a people business, and Brown & Brown has spent more than eighty years serving mid sized companies that lack the in-house expertise in insurance."
#global
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Orbis Global Equity Strategy highlighted Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO). Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm operating through Retail and Specialty Distribution segments. On August 24, 2026, Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) closed at $74.62 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $24.97 billion. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) posted a one‑month return of 1.32%, while its shares lost 22.31% over the past 52 weeks.
Orbis Global Equity Strategy stated the following regarding Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"The biggest winners have been concentrated in AI. But not all AI exposure is equal. We frame ours in four groups. The first is the "Core": direct exposure through companies like Samsung Electronics, Taiwan Semiconductor, and SK Square. The second is "Enablers": the businesses providing the power, materials, and real estate that hyperscalers need to operate. The third is AI "Powered": companies where AI accelerates an already compelling model, like Alphabet. The fourth is the "Overlooked": resilient businesses the market has mispriced as AI casualties. The first three are widely understood. The fourth is where we believe the market is most wrong, and where we are hunting.
Take insurance brokerage. Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO) and Ryan Specialty are brokers: they sit between companies and insurers, matching clients to the right coverage and placing it for a fee, without carrying the risk themselves. Both are priced as AI casualties. Two fears weigh on the stocks: a softening pricing cycle and AI disintermediation. The pricing cycle is already in the price. On AI, we disagree. AI may automate commodity cover like personal auto, but that is under 5% of Brown & Brown's book. The rest is commercial and specialty insurance, where the broker exercises judgement and answers for a denied claim. It is a people business, and Brown & Brown has spent more than eighty years serving mid sized companies that lack the in-house expertise in insurance."
#global
7 days ago
As speculation about her return to the UK grows, Meghan Markle gave royal watchers a familiar sparkle to focus on this week. The **** ss of Sussex brought back her famous engagement ring in her latest As Ever campaign. The sparkler, which Markle has been photographed without on several occasions, has been modified at least three times since 2017.
Meghan Markle's striking diamond engagement ring from Prince Harry has finally resurfaced after being absent for much of 2026.
According to RadarOnline.com, the 45-year-old **** ss wore the jewel in a teaser for As Ever. The clip appears to preview a new apple-inspired product, with close-up shots highlighting the ring on her hand.
The footage appears to be from a shoot the "Suits" alum did in autumn 2025. At that time, she was still frequently seen wearing the three-carat diamond engagement ring gifted by her husband. The budding lifestyle mogul had previously posted clips from that same orchard shoot on October 23, 2025, to announce an As Ever product restock, writing, "Save The Date 10.28.25."
Posted to As Ever's Instagram on Sunday, August 23, Markle's new video includes tight shots of her hands gripping an apple basket handle. The close-ups put her engagement ring, gold Cartier Love bracelet, and three-carat Lorraine Schwartz pinky ring on her right hand front and center.
#ring #posted
Meghan Markle's striking diamond engagement ring from Prince Harry has finally resurfaced after being absent for much of 2026.
According to RadarOnline.com, the 45-year-old **** ss wore the jewel in a teaser for As Ever. The clip appears to preview a new apple-inspired product, with close-up shots highlighting the ring on her hand.
The footage appears to be from a shoot the "Suits" alum did in autumn 2025. At that time, she was still frequently seen wearing the three-carat diamond engagement ring gifted by her husband. The budding lifestyle mogul had previously posted clips from that same orchard shoot on October 23, 2025, to announce an As Ever product restock, writing, "Save The Date 10.28.25."
Posted to As Ever's Instagram on Sunday, August 23, Markle's new video includes tight shots of her hands gripping an apple basket handle. The close-ups put her engagement ring, gold Cartier Love bracelet, and three-carat Lorraine Schwartz pinky ring on her right hand front and center.
#ring #posted
