19 days ago
The US economy is stacking up wins, even if it doesn't feel that way for many households because of the resurgence in inflation.
The economy has now posted 78 consecutive months of expansion, the sixth-longest business cycle since 1854, per new ***** ysis from The Kobeissi Letter. This is well above the long-term average of 49 months and the median of 38 months.
By comparison, the longest period for the US economy without a recession was between 2009 and 2020, at 128 months. The record of course was broken by the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic, which ground the economy to a halt.
Read more: Scaramucci: Lots of Americans 'feel left out of the system'
"Unconventional monetary policy, historically large budget deficits, alongside the AI investment boom, appear to be extending the duration of business cycles. The data says the US economy is remarkably strong," The Kobeissi Letter team said.
Meanwhile, the US economy is nearing an impressive achievement on the unemployment front.
The US unemployment rate is nearing a record number of consecutive months below 5%, Truist chief strategist Keith Lerner said in a note on Monday. The longtime record dates back to the mid-1960s.
#letter #consecutive
The economy has now posted 78 consecutive months of expansion, the sixth-longest business cycle since 1854, per new ***** ysis from The Kobeissi Letter. This is well above the long-term average of 49 months and the median of 38 months.
By comparison, the longest period for the US economy without a recession was between 2009 and 2020, at 128 months. The record of course was broken by the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic, which ground the economy to a halt.
Read more: Scaramucci: Lots of Americans 'feel left out of the system'
"Unconventional monetary policy, historically large budget deficits, alongside the AI investment boom, appear to be extending the duration of business cycles. The data says the US economy is remarkably strong," The Kobeissi Letter team said.
Meanwhile, the US economy is nearing an impressive achievement on the unemployment front.
The US unemployment rate is nearing a record number of consecutive months below 5%, Truist chief strategist Keith Lerner said in a note on Monday. The longtime record dates back to the mid-1960s.
#letter #consecutive
19 days ago
Before we get worried about recessions or market crashes, let's put a 10% drop in context. Going back to 1980, the S&P 500 has fallen 10% or more in roughly half of all calendar years, and a correction of that size has historically shown up about once every 12 to 18 months.
What makes a 10% decline packed into a single month unusual isn't the size of the drop, it's the speed: that kind of compressed move tends to show up during sudden shocks rather than the slower grind most corrections take. Even so, it's happened before, and the market has recovered every time.
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 »
My goal here isn't to predict whether October brings one. It's to point to three consumer businesses whose underlying demand doesn't particularly care what the stock market does that month.
Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) makes Tide, Pampers, Crest, and Gillette. These products are the kind of household basics people buy again almost automatically, recession or not. That steadiness shows up in the numbers. P&G generated more than $87 billion in revenue in its 2026 fiscal year and returned over $15 billion to shareholders through dividends and buybacks.
#market #flashing #every #month
What makes a 10% decline packed into a single month unusual isn't the size of the drop, it's the speed: that kind of compressed move tends to show up during sudden shocks rather than the slower grind most corrections take. Even so, it's happened before, and the market has recovered every time.
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 »
My goal here isn't to predict whether October brings one. It's to point to three consumer businesses whose underlying demand doesn't particularly care what the stock market does that month.
Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) makes Tide, Pampers, Crest, and Gillette. These products are the kind of household basics people buy again almost automatically, recession or not. That steadiness shows up in the numbers. P&G generated more than $87 billion in revenue in its 2026 fiscal year and returned over $15 billion to shareholders through dividends and buybacks.
#market #flashing #every #month
1 month ago
Six months into a conflict that has proven complex, costly, and highly unpopular, there remains no end in sight to the war in Iran. That's left the energy market — and the ****** ysts and strategists who study it — with a deep lack of clarity.
"For the first time since the start of the Iran conflict, we don't have a baseline view," commodities strategists at JPMorgan, led by Natasha Kaneva, wrote to clients on Thursday. "We simply don't know how to model the endgame."
As the war enters its seventh month, the conflict has broadened to multiple fronts.
In the mouth of the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz — the world's most critical chokepoint for global energy flows — remains essentially closed to through traffic as Tehran's Revolutionary Guard Corps continues to threaten vessels in the region. Daily crossings of the waterway have remained in the low double digits, far below the average of more than 120 daily transits before the outbreak of war.
Read more: How oil price shocks ripple through your wallet, from gas to groceries
#Iran
"For the first time since the start of the Iran conflict, we don't have a baseline view," commodities strategists at JPMorgan, led by Natasha Kaneva, wrote to clients on Thursday. "We simply don't know how to model the endgame."
As the war enters its seventh month, the conflict has broadened to multiple fronts.
In the mouth of the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz — the world's most critical chokepoint for global energy flows — remains essentially closed to through traffic as Tehran's Revolutionary Guard Corps continues to threaten vessels in the region. Daily crossings of the waterway have remained in the low double digits, far below the average of more than 120 daily transits before the outbreak of war.
Read more: How oil price shocks ripple through your wallet, from gas to groceries
#Iran
1 month ago
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At the beginning of 2026, the biggest question surrounding the Federal Reserve and interest rates was whether the Fed would cut its target rate at some point this year. However, it's become increasingly clear that a rate cut won't happen any time soon. In fact, it's possible that the Fed may increase its benchmark rate before the year is over.
Following the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC)'s most recent meeting in July, under the leadership of new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, the committee announced its decision to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 3.50%-3.75%.
In its statement, the committee noted that "inflation remains elevated relative to the Committee's 2 percent goal, in part reflecting supply shocks that have driven price increases in certain sectors, including energy. The Committee will deliver price stability."
The Fed has not cut rates since late 2025, yet interest rates on consumer loans and bank accounts steadily decreased throughout 2026 — at least, until recently. Recent rate increases are a sign that the market is already pricing in a rate hike. And with a few more Fed meetings on the calendar for the remainder of 2026, consumers are wondering how potential rate changes could impact their bottom lines.
#year
At the beginning of 2026, the biggest question surrounding the Federal Reserve and interest rates was whether the Fed would cut its target rate at some point this year. However, it's become increasingly clear that a rate cut won't happen any time soon. In fact, it's possible that the Fed may increase its benchmark rate before the year is over.
Following the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC)'s most recent meeting in July, under the leadership of new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, the committee announced its decision to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 3.50%-3.75%.
In its statement, the committee noted that "inflation remains elevated relative to the Committee's 2 percent goal, in part reflecting supply shocks that have driven price increases in certain sectors, including energy. The Committee will deliver price stability."
The Fed has not cut rates since late 2025, yet interest rates on consumer loans and bank accounts steadily decreased throughout 2026 — at least, until recently. Recent rate increases are a sign that the market is already pricing in a rate hike. And with a few more Fed meetings on the calendar for the remainder of 2026, consumers are wondering how potential rate changes could impact their bottom lines.
#year
1 month ago
U.S. stocks fell Tuesday as the 10-year Treasury yield climbed above 5% for the first time since 2007, with investors awaiting a Federal Reserve interest-rate decision expected Wednesday.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped roughly 449 points, or 0.86%. The S&P 500 fell about 0.34% and the Nasdaq Composite declined 0.48%. The 10-year Treasury yield rose as high as 5.041% before pulling back to trade around 5.011%.
Oil prices extended gains after Saudi Arabia shut a key pipeline that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude futures for November delivery rose about 1.6% to trade above $107 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate futures climbed to above $103.
Fed funds futures point to roughly a 90% to 93% probability that the Fed raises its benchmark rate by a quarter percentage point on Wednesday, which would lift the upper bound of the target range to 4%, according to The Wall Street Journal. That probability was roughly 59% a week ago.
Christopher Hodge, chief economist for the U.S. at Natixis CIB Americas, said in a note that he expects Fed Chair Kevin Warsh to signal the rate move is not a commitment to further hikes. "We also think that he will emphasize that this decision was discrete and does not pre-commit the Fed to any actions in subsequent meetings, giving him and the Committee maximum flexibility to respond to shocks," Hodge said, according to CNBC.
#rate
The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped roughly 449 points, or 0.86%. The S&P 500 fell about 0.34% and the Nasdaq Composite declined 0.48%. The 10-year Treasury yield rose as high as 5.041% before pulling back to trade around 5.011%.
Oil prices extended gains after Saudi Arabia shut a key pipeline that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude futures for November delivery rose about 1.6% to trade above $107 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate futures climbed to above $103.
Fed funds futures point to roughly a 90% to 93% probability that the Fed raises its benchmark rate by a quarter percentage point on Wednesday, which would lift the upper bound of the target range to 4%, according to The Wall Street Journal. That probability was roughly 59% a week ago.
Christopher Hodge, chief economist for the U.S. at Natixis CIB Americas, said in a note that he expects Fed Chair Kevin Warsh to signal the rate move is not a commitment to further hikes. "We also think that he will emphasize that this decision was discrete and does not pre-commit the Fed to any actions in subsequent meetings, giving him and the Committee maximum flexibility to respond to shocks," Hodge said, according to CNBC.
#rate
1 month ago
Steve Sarkisian didn't have a mic drop moment in No. 3 Texas football's 24-23 comeback win vs. top-ranked Ohio State.
As a matter of fact, he never even saw one in the Longhorns' home win at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. He twice declined an interview with ABC during the game, first with Laura Rutledge at halftime, then again with Holly Rowe immediately following the game.
Texas shocks Ohio State: Epic Longhorns rally or Buckeyes choke job?
Instead, Sarkisian told Rowe he was going to sing "Texas Fight" with his team, doing the Hook 'em gesture at the camera and then leaving a clearly frustrated Rowe by herself.
The Steve Sarkisian postgame interview with Holly Rowe was quite brief. https://t.co/TWV6JrA9Ro pic.twitter.com/xo0z8oidMN
#holly
As a matter of fact, he never even saw one in the Longhorns' home win at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. He twice declined an interview with ABC during the game, first with Laura Rutledge at halftime, then again with Holly Rowe immediately following the game.
Texas shocks Ohio State: Epic Longhorns rally or Buckeyes choke job?
Instead, Sarkisian told Rowe he was going to sing "Texas Fight" with his team, doing the Hook 'em gesture at the camera and then leaving a clearly frustrated Rowe by herself.
The Steve Sarkisian postgame interview with Holly Rowe was quite brief. https://t.co/TWV6JrA9Ro pic.twitter.com/xo0z8oidMN
#holly
1 month ago
All four of the top women's seeds are into the semi-finals of the US Open for the first time since the 1975 edition of the tournament.
All of two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, new world No 1 Elena Rybakina, former finalist Jessica Pegula and 2023 winner Coco Gauff survived three-set thrillers to make the last four, with Kazakhstan's Rybakina usurping Sabalenka at the top of the world rankings as a result.
The men's tournament has stood in sharp contrast: top seed Alexander Zverev has now reached the semi-finals of all four grand slams this year, but many of the other big names crashed out early.
The shocks started in the first round as 23-time grand slam champion and fourth seed Novak Djokovic suffered his earliest exit at a major in 20 years, with third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime and 2024 runner-up Taylor Fritz falling in the third round.
Carlos Alcaraz made a fine run to the quarter-finals on his return from a nearly five-month injury layoff but lost to Ben Shelton in a deciding set tiebreak, with an American finalist guaranteed as the eighth seed faces Frances Tiafoe. The men's semis are completed by 2022 semi-finalist Karen Khachanov.
#tournament
All of two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, new world No 1 Elena Rybakina, former finalist Jessica Pegula and 2023 winner Coco Gauff survived three-set thrillers to make the last four, with Kazakhstan's Rybakina usurping Sabalenka at the top of the world rankings as a result.
The men's tournament has stood in sharp contrast: top seed Alexander Zverev has now reached the semi-finals of all four grand slams this year, but many of the other big names crashed out early.
The shocks started in the first round as 23-time grand slam champion and fourth seed Novak Djokovic suffered his earliest exit at a major in 20 years, with third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime and 2024 runner-up Taylor Fritz falling in the third round.
Carlos Alcaraz made a fine run to the quarter-finals on his return from a nearly five-month injury layoff but lost to Ben Shelton in a deciding set tiebreak, with an American finalist guaranteed as the eighth seed faces Frances Tiafoe. The men's semis are completed by 2022 semi-finalist Karen Khachanov.
#tournament
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2 months ago
The shocks started early at this US Open as 23-time grand slam champion and fourth seed Novak Djokovic suffered his earliest exit at a major in 20 years, losing in the first round.
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major **** le.
Third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime is the biggest name to fall so far, losing in four sets to Russia's Karen Khachanov in the second round, while last year's finalist and 10th seed Amanda Anisimova crashed out in the third round to Anastasia Potapova.
2024 runner-up Taylor Fritz also lost in the third round, falling in five to 24th seed Francisco Cerundolo, as did French Open finalist Flavio Cobolli on a Saturday of shocks.
#Third #shocks
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major **** le.
Third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime is the biggest name to fall so far, losing in four sets to Russia's Karen Khachanov in the second round, while last year's finalist and 10th seed Amanda Anisimova crashed out in the third round to Anastasia Potapova.
2024 runner-up Taylor Fritz also lost in the third round, falling in five to 24th seed Francisco Cerundolo, as did French Open finalist Flavio Cobolli on a Saturday of shocks.
#Third #shocks
2 months ago
The shocks have already started at the US Open as 23-time grand slam champion and fourth seed Novak Djokovic suffered his earliest exit at a major in 20 years, losing in the first round.
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ***** le.
Third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime is the biggest name to fall so far, losing in four sets to Russia's Karen Khachanov in the second round, while last year's finalist and 10th seed Amanda Anisimova crashed out in the third round to Anastasia Potapova.
2024 runner-up Taylor Fritz also lost in the third round, falling in five to 24th seed Francisco Cerundolo, as did French Open finalist Flavio Cobolli on a Saturday of shocks.
#seed #Third #losing
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ***** le.
Third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime is the biggest name to fall so far, losing in four sets to Russia's Karen Khachanov in the second round, while last year's finalist and 10th seed Amanda Anisimova crashed out in the third round to Anastasia Potapova.
2024 runner-up Taylor Fritz also lost in the third round, falling in five to 24th seed Francisco Cerundolo, as did French Open finalist Flavio Cobolli on a Saturday of shocks.
#seed #Third #losing
2 months ago
The shocks have already started at the US Open as 23-time grand slam champion and fourth seed Novak Djokovic suffered his earliest exit at a major in 20 years, losing in the first round.
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ******* le.
Third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime is the biggest name to fall so far, losing in four sets to Russia's Karen Khachanov in the second round, while last year's finalist and 10th seed Amanda Anisimova crashed out in the third round to Anastasia Potapova.
2024 runner-up Taylor Fritz also lost in the third round, falling in five to 24th seed Francisco Cerundolo, as did French Open finalist Flavio Cobolli on a Saturday of shocks.
#round #shocks
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ******* le.
Third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime is the biggest name to fall so far, losing in four sets to Russia's Karen Khachanov in the second round, while last year's finalist and 10th seed Amanda Anisimova crashed out in the third round to Anastasia Potapova.
2024 runner-up Taylor Fritz also lost in the third round, falling in five to 24th seed Francisco Cerundolo, as did French Open finalist Flavio Cobolli on a Saturday of shocks.
#round #shocks
2 months ago
The draw for the second round of the 2026/27 DFB-Pokal took place at the German Football Museum in Dortmund on Saturday evening, producing four ties between Bundesliga clubs and an intriguing reunion between defending champions Bayern Munich and 1. FC Magdeburg.
Bayern will host Magdeburg in a repeat of one of the more memorable cup shocks of the modern era. Then-2. Bundesliga side Magdeburg eliminated the record champions on penalties in the second round of the 2000/01 competition. This time, however, the underdogs will have to attempt another upset at the Allianz Arena.
Elsewhere, Borussia Dortmund host Werder Bremen while 1. FC Cologne welcome Union Berlin. Hamburger SV face Eintracht Frankfurt at the Volksparkstadion and Bundesliga newcomers SC Paderborn host VfB Stuttgart in the remaining top-flight encounter.
Three sides from below Germany's top two divisions remain in the competition. Regionalliga outfit SSV Jeddeloh II, who stunned relegated Bundesliga club Heidenheim 5-2 in the opening round, were rewarded with a home tie against Hertha BSC. Rot-Weiss Essen host RB Leipzig while SG Sonnenhof Großaspach welcome FC Augsburg.
The second-round fixtures will be played on October 27 and 28. Exact kickoff times will be confirmed at a later date.
#bayern
Bayern will host Magdeburg in a repeat of one of the more memorable cup shocks of the modern era. Then-2. Bundesliga side Magdeburg eliminated the record champions on penalties in the second round of the 2000/01 competition. This time, however, the underdogs will have to attempt another upset at the Allianz Arena.
Elsewhere, Borussia Dortmund host Werder Bremen while 1. FC Cologne welcome Union Berlin. Hamburger SV face Eintracht Frankfurt at the Volksparkstadion and Bundesliga newcomers SC Paderborn host VfB Stuttgart in the remaining top-flight encounter.
Three sides from below Germany's top two divisions remain in the competition. Regionalliga outfit SSV Jeddeloh II, who stunned relegated Bundesliga club Heidenheim 5-2 in the opening round, were rewarded with a home tie against Hertha BSC. Rot-Weiss Essen host RB Leipzig while SG Sonnenhof Großaspach welcome FC Augsburg.
The second-round fixtures will be played on October 27 and 28. Exact kickoff times will be confirmed at a later date.
#bayern
2 months ago
The shocks have already started at the US Open as 23-time grand slam champion and fourth seed Novak Djokovic suffered his earliest exit at a major in 20 years, losing in the first round.
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ****** le.
Third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime is the biggest name to fall so far, losing in four sets to Russia's Karen Khachanov in the second round.
29th seed Cameron Norrie was the first of the Brits to make a tame exit, losing in four sets to France Lucas Van ****** che, while Belinda Bencic is an early women's seed to fall, beaten by Yulia Putintseva.
#losing #exit #major
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ****** le.
Third seed and last year's semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime is the biggest name to fall so far, losing in four sets to Russia's Karen Khachanov in the second round.
29th seed Cameron Norrie was the first of the Brits to make a tame exit, losing in four sets to France Lucas Van ****** che, while Belinda Bencic is an early women's seed to fall, beaten by Yulia Putintseva.
#losing #exit #major
2 months ago
The shocks have already started at the US Open as 23-time grand slam champion and fourth seed Novak Djokovic suffered his earliest exit at a major in 20 years, losing in the first round.
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ***** le.
29th seed Cameron Norrie was the first of the Brits to make a tame exit, losing in four sets to France Lucas Van ***** che, while Belinda Bencic is an early women's seed to fall, beaten by Yulia Putintseva.
Follow the top players' progress with our seed tracker here:
#losing #time #slam
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ***** le.
29th seed Cameron Norrie was the first of the Brits to make a tame exit, losing in four sets to France Lucas Van ***** che, while Belinda Bencic is an early women's seed to fall, beaten by Yulia Putintseva.
Follow the top players' progress with our seed tracker here:
#losing #time #slam
2 months ago
Federal Reserve governor Michael Barr said Tuesday that if inflation doesn't come down adequately, the central bank should raise interest rates.
Ahead of the Fed policy meeting in just over two weeks, Barr said the outlook for inflation and the economy will top the agenda.
"If trends in the data give me some confidence that inflation is moderating on a path to 2%, then I think we can take a bit more time to ***** s our policy stance," Barr said, according to prepared remarks. "However, if inflation appears not to be moderating sufficiently, then I think we should act decisively to raise rates."
The Fed will get two more readings on consumer and wholesale inflation next week before the meeting on Sept. 16. Recent inflation data has been mixed, with back-to-back cooler reports on the Consumer Price Index for June and July and one stickier report on the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, the Personal Consumption Expenditures index.
Still, Barr said inflation remains too high, pointing to a series of shocks — from tariffs to the conflict in the Middle East to the rapid AI build-out — that "pushed us off course."
#raise #policy #meeting #moderating
Ahead of the Fed policy meeting in just over two weeks, Barr said the outlook for inflation and the economy will top the agenda.
"If trends in the data give me some confidence that inflation is moderating on a path to 2%, then I think we can take a bit more time to ***** s our policy stance," Barr said, according to prepared remarks. "However, if inflation appears not to be moderating sufficiently, then I think we should act decisively to raise rates."
The Fed will get two more readings on consumer and wholesale inflation next week before the meeting on Sept. 16. Recent inflation data has been mixed, with back-to-back cooler reports on the Consumer Price Index for June and July and one stickier report on the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, the Personal Consumption Expenditures index.
Still, Barr said inflation remains too high, pointing to a series of shocks — from tariffs to the conflict in the Middle East to the rapid AI build-out — that "pushed us off course."
#raise #policy #meeting #moderating
2 months ago
The shocks have already started at the US Open as 23-time grand slam champion and fourth seed Novak Djokovic suffered his earliest exit at a major in 20 years, losing in the first round.
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ****** le.
Elsewhere on the opening day 29th seed Cameron Norrie was the first of the Brits to make a tame exit, losing in four sets to France Lucas Van ****** che, but there were wins for former US Open finalist and third seed Jessica Pegula as well as men's seventh seed Daniil Medvedev.
Follow the top players' progress with our seed tracker here:
#open #first #time #exit
The Serb broke down in tears as he fell in five sets to Mariano Navone, in a match where he physically struggled with the heat and humidity and threw up several times.
The defeat - his first time losing in the opening round of a slam since the Australian Open in 2006 - brings an abrupt end to his quest for a 25th major ****** le.
Elsewhere on the opening day 29th seed Cameron Norrie was the first of the Brits to make a tame exit, losing in four sets to France Lucas Van ****** che, but there were wins for former US Open finalist and third seed Jessica Pegula as well as men's seventh seed Daniil Medvedev.
Follow the top players' progress with our seed tracker here:
#open #first #time #exit
2 months ago
Moses Itauma has been advised to learn from his devastating knockout loss to Filip Hrgovic and harness his speed to become a world champion.
Itauma, 21, was impressing throughout his world IBF world heavyweight ******* le fight against the experienced and talented Croatian, who featured at the 2016 Olympics.
Despite taking a knee in the second round, the 34-year-old rallied to produce a thrilling comeback and forced a stoppage in the ninth round.
And after one of the biggest shocks of the year in boxing, a host of fighters have shared their view on how the mercurial Briton can bounce back to fulfil his talent after this major setback, including four-weight world champion Shakur Stevenson.
"Unbelievable talent and skills," Stevenson remarked on Itauma's performance. "He's young and will be a champion one day if he learn from that.
#stevenson
Itauma, 21, was impressing throughout his world IBF world heavyweight ******* le fight against the experienced and talented Croatian, who featured at the 2016 Olympics.
Despite taking a knee in the second round, the 34-year-old rallied to produce a thrilling comeback and forced a stoppage in the ninth round.
And after one of the biggest shocks of the year in boxing, a host of fighters have shared their view on how the mercurial Briton can bounce back to fulfil his talent after this major setback, including four-weight world champion Shakur Stevenson.
"Unbelievable talent and skills," Stevenson remarked on Itauma's performance. "He's young and will be a champion one day if he learn from that.
#stevenson
2 months ago
The roster for the 2026 Motocross of Nations Team USA roster was announced on Press Day for the Pro Motocross finale at Ironman Raceway, and it features Chance Hymas in the MXGP class, Levi Kitchen in MX2, and the veteran Cooper Webb in the Open class.
"They're going to do a great job," said Mike Pelletier, Director of Racing. "I think these three bleed red, white and blue, to be honest with you. And they've been pounding on the door for a long time. They've been riding great this season. It's time to show them what the world knows again in France."
Hymas will lead the charge in the premiere class.
"I've been on Mike's door for a long time wanting to do this," Hymas said. "It's been a dream since I was a little kid, but very thankful to be going across the call with these guys. I think we have a really good team, honestly, and I'm excited for the challenge. Never been overseas. Definitely a lot of new culture shocks coming up."
#hymas #time #team #going
"They're going to do a great job," said Mike Pelletier, Director of Racing. "I think these three bleed red, white and blue, to be honest with you. And they've been pounding on the door for a long time. They've been riding great this season. It's time to show them what the world knows again in France."
Hymas will lead the charge in the premiere class.
"I've been on Mike's door for a long time wanting to do this," Hymas said. "It's been a dream since I was a little kid, but very thankful to be going across the call with these guys. I think we have a really good team, honestly, and I'm excited for the challenge. Never been overseas. Definitely a lot of new culture shocks coming up."
#hymas #time #team #going
2 months ago
Los Angeles' Democratic mayoral candidates were torched by residents after a debate night in America's second-most populous city that one voter described as "disgraceful."
Besides being home to Hollywood, Los Angeles is one of America's most economically important cities. The city, however, has struggled with recent fires, rising living costs, homelessness and outmigration. Those problems have fueled a particularly contentious mayoral race this year, which included a surprisingly competitive but ultimately unsuccessful bid by Republican Spencer Pratt.
With Pratt out of the race, Democrats Karen Bass, the incumbent, and Nithya Raman, a democratic socialist city council member, are locked in a competitive and bitter runoff for Los Angeles mayor. During last week's debate, Bass and Raman traded personal attacks and insults, leaving some voters frustrated over what solutions the candidates could offer.
After the debate, voter Stacey Segarra Bohlinger told Fox News Digital she believes Bass and Raman are "both bad" and said, "I wish they could both lose."
'Send Help': La Gop Leader Issues Desperate Appeal After Dem Mayor's Campaign Vid Shocks Viewers
#debate #pratt
Besides being home to Hollywood, Los Angeles is one of America's most economically important cities. The city, however, has struggled with recent fires, rising living costs, homelessness and outmigration. Those problems have fueled a particularly contentious mayoral race this year, which included a surprisingly competitive but ultimately unsuccessful bid by Republican Spencer Pratt.
With Pratt out of the race, Democrats Karen Bass, the incumbent, and Nithya Raman, a democratic socialist city council member, are locked in a competitive and bitter runoff for Los Angeles mayor. During last week's debate, Bass and Raman traded personal attacks and insults, leaving some voters frustrated over what solutions the candidates could offer.
After the debate, voter Stacey Segarra Bohlinger told Fox News Digital she believes Bass and Raman are "both bad" and said, "I wish they could both lose."
'Send Help': La Gop Leader Issues Desperate Appeal After Dem Mayor's Campaign Vid Shocks Viewers
#debate #pratt
2 months ago
Freight broker insurance is in a frenzy, and premium hikes are getting ugly. Thom Albrecht helps break down how the CH Robinson verdict, underwriting pullback and cargo theft are driving double-digit to triple-digit cost increases for brokers.He also explains what's changing in excess liability, why some underwriters are exiting the market, and what carriers and brokers should watch into peak season. If you move freight, this is a real cost story—not noise.
Freight broker insurance has entered a full-blown pricing crisis, with excess liability coverage costs rising 50% to triple digits and even primary coverage climbing sharply in the double digits — all since a pair of legal shocks hit the market this spring. The turmoil is forcing brokers to rethink coverage limits, vendor technology relationships, and renewal strategies ahead of what ***** ysts expect will be a prolonged inflationary environment.
The disruption unfolded in three phases, according to Thom Albrecht, who discussed the market dynamics during this SONAR Market Update. The first was "total chaos" following the Montgomery Supreme Court decision on May 14, which exposed brokers to motor-carrier-style liability. A brief calm in June ended abruptly on July 23, when the C.H. Robinson verdict — a $135 million judgment — rattled underwriters again. "We've seen two underwriters exit the market, basically backing the paper over in London," Albrecht said. "So there's gonna be fewer options, a very inflationary environment, and there's gonna be more questions that are asked of freight brokers than ever before as they go through their renewals."
On primary coverage — the first $5 million of freight broker auto liability, or FBAL — Albrecht said increases are running in the "middle" double digits, well above 10% but short of 90%. For excess or surplus coverage above $5 million, the picture is far worse. Smaller brokers with gross revenues of $30 million to $40 million that were paying roughly $10,000 a year for coverage could now face bills of $30,000 to $40,000. Larger brokers seeking excess capacity above $5 million are confronting 50% to 60% increases at the low end and triple-digit hikes at the top.
"The word to use is it's a total frenzy right now," Albrecht said, describing the post-verdict insurance environment for freight brokers.
#coverage #market #liability #insurance
Freight broker insurance has entered a full-blown pricing crisis, with excess liability coverage costs rising 50% to triple digits and even primary coverage climbing sharply in the double digits — all since a pair of legal shocks hit the market this spring. The turmoil is forcing brokers to rethink coverage limits, vendor technology relationships, and renewal strategies ahead of what ***** ysts expect will be a prolonged inflationary environment.
The disruption unfolded in three phases, according to Thom Albrecht, who discussed the market dynamics during this SONAR Market Update. The first was "total chaos" following the Montgomery Supreme Court decision on May 14, which exposed brokers to motor-carrier-style liability. A brief calm in June ended abruptly on July 23, when the C.H. Robinson verdict — a $135 million judgment — rattled underwriters again. "We've seen two underwriters exit the market, basically backing the paper over in London," Albrecht said. "So there's gonna be fewer options, a very inflationary environment, and there's gonna be more questions that are asked of freight brokers than ever before as they go through their renewals."
On primary coverage — the first $5 million of freight broker auto liability, or FBAL — Albrecht said increases are running in the "middle" double digits, well above 10% but short of 90%. For excess or surplus coverage above $5 million, the picture is far worse. Smaller brokers with gross revenues of $30 million to $40 million that were paying roughly $10,000 a year for coverage could now face bills of $30,000 to $40,000. Larger brokers seeking excess capacity above $5 million are confronting 50% to 60% increases at the low end and triple-digit hikes at the top.
"The word to use is it's a total frenzy right now," Albrecht said, describing the post-verdict insurance environment for freight brokers.
#coverage #market #liability #insurance
2 months ago
Mission Produce gets about 85% of revenue from avocados, and a price collapse is impacting sales.
A supply glut from Mexico, not weak demand, drove the pricing headwinds, but a recovery in prices is now expected.
Mission Produce absorbs price shocks better than headlines suggest, with fiscal Q1 gross margin expanding 190 basis points despite a 30% decline in prices.
Seasonality turns in Mission's favor in the second half, with a record Peruvian harvest and management issuing upbeat guidance.
Insiders and institutions are buying, including directors, the company's largest shareholder, and elite funds run by billionaires.
#produce #prices #Mexico #insiders
A supply glut from Mexico, not weak demand, drove the pricing headwinds, but a recovery in prices is now expected.
Mission Produce absorbs price shocks better than headlines suggest, with fiscal Q1 gross margin expanding 190 basis points despite a 30% decline in prices.
Seasonality turns in Mission's favor in the second half, with a record Peruvian harvest and management issuing upbeat guidance.
Insiders and institutions are buying, including directors, the company's largest shareholder, and elite funds run by billionaires.
#produce #prices #Mexico #insiders
2 months 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.
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) isn't broken, but the quarter was messy.
The luxury carmaker is trying to launch its next big product cycle while fighting supply shocks, weaker markets and the awkward business of winding down old Jaguars before the new ones arrive.
Jaguar Land Rover reported a sharp fall in first-quarter profit for the three months to June 30.
Revenue fell 9.6% year-over-year to £6 billion (about $8.2 billion) as wholesale volumes dropped 9.2%. Profit before tax and exceptional items fell to £109 million from £351 million a year earlier, while profit after tax declined to £66 million from £248 million.
#profit #year #jaguar #fell
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) isn't broken, but the quarter was messy.
The luxury carmaker is trying to launch its next big product cycle while fighting supply shocks, weaker markets and the awkward business of winding down old Jaguars before the new ones arrive.
Jaguar Land Rover reported a sharp fall in first-quarter profit for the three months to June 30.
Revenue fell 9.6% year-over-year to £6 billion (about $8.2 billion) as wholesale volumes dropped 9.2%. Profit before tax and exceptional items fell to £109 million from £351 million a year earlier, while profit after tax declined to £66 million from £248 million.
#profit #year #jaguar #fell
2 months ago
In one of the biggest shocks of the meet through three days, world record holder Summer McIntosh missed the championship final of the women's 400 freestyle Friday morning, finishing ninth in prelims in 4:08.56.
McIntosh posted a time more than 14 seconds slower than her own world record. It's a stunning result in an event she's dominated internationally over the past year, and it continues a disappointing week in freestyle events for the Canadian superstar.
McIntosh came into the 400 off after losing the 200 freestyle by 0.19 seconds to Australia's Lani Pallister on day one after scratching the 200 ******* erfly. That result already raised eyebrows given her status as one of the most dominant swimmers in the sport. However, missing a final outright is a different level of surprise.
McIntosh is never shy about racing a heavy program, and the ******* ulative toll of that schedule may be part of the story. She was able to win gold last night in the 400 IM, making the freestyle stumbles specifically notable rather than a sign of an across-the-board slump.
With McIntosh out of the picture, Katie Ledecky and Pallister will settle the 400 free between themselves tonight, a rematch of sorts after Pallister pushed Ledecky hard in the 1500 free on Wednesday.
#mcintosh #pallister #free
McIntosh posted a time more than 14 seconds slower than her own world record. It's a stunning result in an event she's dominated internationally over the past year, and it continues a disappointing week in freestyle events for the Canadian superstar.
McIntosh came into the 400 off after losing the 200 freestyle by 0.19 seconds to Australia's Lani Pallister on day one after scratching the 200 ******* erfly. That result already raised eyebrows given her status as one of the most dominant swimmers in the sport. However, missing a final outright is a different level of surprise.
McIntosh is never shy about racing a heavy program, and the ******* ulative toll of that schedule may be part of the story. She was able to win gold last night in the 400 IM, making the freestyle stumbles specifically notable rather than a sign of an across-the-board slump.
With McIntosh out of the picture, Katie Ledecky and Pallister will settle the 400 free between themselves tonight, a rematch of sorts after Pallister pushed Ledecky hard in the 1500 free on Wednesday.
#mcintosh #pallister #free
2 months 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.
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) isn't broken, but the quarter was messy.
The luxury carmaker is trying to launch its next big product cycle while fighting supply shocks, weaker markets and the awkward business of winding down old Jaguars before the new ones arrive.
Jaguar Land Rover reported a sharp fall in first-quarter profit for the three months to June 30.
Revenue fell 9.6% year-over-year to £6 billion (about $8.2 billion) as wholesale volumes dropped 9.2%. Profit before tax and exceptional items fell to £109 million from £351 million a year earlier, while profit after tax declined to £66 million from £248 million.
#billion
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) isn't broken, but the quarter was messy.
The luxury carmaker is trying to launch its next big product cycle while fighting supply shocks, weaker markets and the awkward business of winding down old Jaguars before the new ones arrive.
Jaguar Land Rover reported a sharp fall in first-quarter profit for the three months to June 30.
Revenue fell 9.6% year-over-year to £6 billion (about $8.2 billion) as wholesale volumes dropped 9.2%. Profit before tax and exceptional items fell to £109 million from £351 million a year earlier, while profit after tax declined to £66 million from £248 million.
#billion
2 months ago
It was reported on July 27 that AstraZeneca PLC (NASDAQ:AZN) shares outperformed in European trading after the company reported second-quarter earnings that beat Wall Street expectations and reiterated its full-year 2026 guidance. Core earnings per share (EPS) jumped 18% on a constant exchange rate (FXN) basis year-over-year to $2.63, comfortably ahead of the $2.48 ***** yst consensus. Total revenue reached $15.38 billion, up 5% at constant exchange rates, driven primarily by sustained momentum in its Oncology and Rare Disease units. Management reconfirmed its full-year 2026 outlook of mid-to-high single-digit revenue growth and low double-digit Core EPS growth, expressing confidence in reaching its $80 billion total revenue target by 2030 despite near-term headwind shocks.
The quarter demonstrated strong commercial execution in core growth engines. Oncology revenue rose 16% to $7.33 billion, supported by strong demand for Tagrisso ($1.94 billion), Imfinzi ($1.85 billion), and Enhertu (+31%). Rare Disease contributed $4.9 billion, led by Ultomiris. These gains successfully offset severe pressures in the Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism (CVRM) segment, which declined 15% due to the loss of exclusivity (LOE) for Farxiga in the U.S. and ongoing Volume-Based Procurement (VBP) price cuts in China.
Meanwhile, pipeline updates presented a mixed picture. On July 27, AZN disclosed that a Phase 3 study evaluating Ultomiris in hematopoietic stem cell transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (HSCT-TMA) failed to hit its primary endpoint of event-free survival at week 26 versus placebo. Following the readout, H.C. Wainwright noted that the trial miss represents a "clear positive" for competitor Omeros (OMER), removing a major near-term competitive overhang on its drug Yartemlea and driving Omeros shares up 11% in morning trading.
AstraZeneca PLC (NASDAQ:AZN)'s core profitability remains elite, with core operating margins expanding to 34% in Q2 despite top-line headwinds from generic entry. High gross and net margins signal durable pricing power across its branded specialty portfolio. This strong profitability generates predictable cash flow to fund heavy R&D investments, commercial rollouts, and growing shareholder returns, including a 3-cent increase in the interim dividend to $1.06 per share, while buffering the company against pricing pressure.
The company's expansive late-stage pipeline and high volume of regulatory approvals underpin a multi-year growth trajectory. With 30 major regional approvals since late 2025 and more than 20 high-value trial readouts scheduled over the next 18 months, AZN possesses broad commercial optionality. Continued expansions in oncology (e.g., Enhertu and Imfinzi) and respiratory therapies (such as Breztri and Tezspire) provide direct revenue replacement for legacy products facing patent expiration.
#high #july
The quarter demonstrated strong commercial execution in core growth engines. Oncology revenue rose 16% to $7.33 billion, supported by strong demand for Tagrisso ($1.94 billion), Imfinzi ($1.85 billion), and Enhertu (+31%). Rare Disease contributed $4.9 billion, led by Ultomiris. These gains successfully offset severe pressures in the Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism (CVRM) segment, which declined 15% due to the loss of exclusivity (LOE) for Farxiga in the U.S. and ongoing Volume-Based Procurement (VBP) price cuts in China.
Meanwhile, pipeline updates presented a mixed picture. On July 27, AZN disclosed that a Phase 3 study evaluating Ultomiris in hematopoietic stem cell transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (HSCT-TMA) failed to hit its primary endpoint of event-free survival at week 26 versus placebo. Following the readout, H.C. Wainwright noted that the trial miss represents a "clear positive" for competitor Omeros (OMER), removing a major near-term competitive overhang on its drug Yartemlea and driving Omeros shares up 11% in morning trading.
AstraZeneca PLC (NASDAQ:AZN)'s core profitability remains elite, with core operating margins expanding to 34% in Q2 despite top-line headwinds from generic entry. High gross and net margins signal durable pricing power across its branded specialty portfolio. This strong profitability generates predictable cash flow to fund heavy R&D investments, commercial rollouts, and growing shareholder returns, including a 3-cent increase in the interim dividend to $1.06 per share, while buffering the company against pricing pressure.
The company's expansive late-stage pipeline and high volume of regulatory approvals underpin a multi-year growth trajectory. With 30 major regional approvals since late 2025 and more than 20 high-value trial readouts scheduled over the next 18 months, AZN possesses broad commercial optionality. Continued expansions in oncology (e.g., Enhertu and Imfinzi) and respiratory therapies (such as Breztri and Tezspire) provide direct revenue replacement for legacy products facing patent expiration.
#high #july
2 months ago
Dozens of people were killed after a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake rocked western Colombia early on Monday, Aug. 10.
The earthquake brought down buildings across several cities in the country and left people trapped in the rubble, local authorities said, according to Reuters.
The epicenter of the devastating earthquake was near San Jose del Palmar, in Choco, a sparsely populated province on Colombia's Pacific Coast. Choco Governor Nubia Carolina Cordoba-Curi said there were injuries and significant damage in Quibdo, the provincial capital, and warned residents about potential aftershocks.
Colombia's disaster agency said the shake, which happened at around 7:30 a.m. local time, was felt in nine departments and all 32 departmental capitals. The country's geological service measured the magnitude at 7.4 and said it struck at a depth of 60 miles.
The Aug. 10 earthquake in Colombia comes more than a month after a pair of devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela in late June, causing more than 5,000 deaths and leaving more than 16,000 people injured.
#choco
The earthquake brought down buildings across several cities in the country and left people trapped in the rubble, local authorities said, according to Reuters.
The epicenter of the devastating earthquake was near San Jose del Palmar, in Choco, a sparsely populated province on Colombia's Pacific Coast. Choco Governor Nubia Carolina Cordoba-Curi said there were injuries and significant damage in Quibdo, the provincial capital, and warned residents about potential aftershocks.
Colombia's disaster agency said the shake, which happened at around 7:30 a.m. local time, was felt in nine departments and all 32 departmental capitals. The country's geological service measured the magnitude at 7.4 and said it struck at a depth of 60 miles.
The Aug. 10 earthquake in Colombia comes more than a month after a pair of devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela in late June, causing more than 5,000 deaths and leaving more than 16,000 people injured.
#choco
3 months ago
It's time for a cost-of-living checkup.
Assessments of U.S. consumer prices, spending and sentiment are due this week—and they could shed light on whether improvements in June were significant enough to withstand geopolitical shocks.
The July Consumer Price Index reading will land Wednesday. The cost-of-living measure ticked down in June—before the U.S.-Iran ceasefire fell apart and fighting in the Middle East escalated. The conflict has curtailed oil shipments in the Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb Straits, sending energy prices higher and putting upward pressure on other prices.
The CPI remains high by historic standards, as does the Producer Price Index, which tracks wholesale inflation. The July PPI reading is due Thursday; The index dipped in June after surging in May. Rising wholesale costs can be a sign that consumer prices will climb as businesses pass rising expenses along.
Retail and consumer sentiment data comes out Friday. Consumer spending increased slightly in June, and the public mood recently brightened a bit, according to the University of Michigan's Survey of Consumer Sentiment. Savings rates, however, hit a four-year low, and developments including chatter about an AI bubble and new tariffs may have shifted consumers' outlook.
#sentiment #rising
Assessments of U.S. consumer prices, spending and sentiment are due this week—and they could shed light on whether improvements in June were significant enough to withstand geopolitical shocks.
The July Consumer Price Index reading will land Wednesday. The cost-of-living measure ticked down in June—before the U.S.-Iran ceasefire fell apart and fighting in the Middle East escalated. The conflict has curtailed oil shipments in the Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb Straits, sending energy prices higher and putting upward pressure on other prices.
The CPI remains high by historic standards, as does the Producer Price Index, which tracks wholesale inflation. The July PPI reading is due Thursday; The index dipped in June after surging in May. Rising wholesale costs can be a sign that consumer prices will climb as businesses pass rising expenses along.
Retail and consumer sentiment data comes out Friday. Consumer spending increased slightly in June, and the public mood recently brightened a bit, according to the University of Michigan's Survey of Consumer Sentiment. Savings rates, however, hit a four-year low, and developments including chatter about an AI bubble and new tariffs may have shifted consumers' outlook.
#sentiment #rising
3 months ago
On August 6, Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) Business announced a private wireless deployment at the Annapolis headquarters of Smartlink, a national digital infrastructure firm, combining carrier-grade Neutral Host cellular coverage with a dedicated CBRS private network in one managed platform. It is a small deal in dollar terms, but it points to where Comcast wants growth to come from next: enterprise connectivity rather than residential cable.
The Smartlink deployment replaces the kind of Distributed Antenna System infrastructure that used to require separate vendors and separate budgets. Comcast Business now delivers cellular coverage and a private network for cameras, access control, and occupancy sensors through a single platform built on licensed CBRS spectrum. It is not an isolated experiment either. Comcast has already rolled out similar systems at the University of Virginia, The Sound Hotel Seattle Belltown, and Rocket Arena for the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the company is positioning Smartlink as a replicable model for other commercial landlords.
That enterprise push sits on top of a business that still throws off enormous cash. Comcast generated free cash flow of nearly $21.9 billion in fiscal 2025 on revenue of about $123.7 billion, with net income near $20.0 billion, a net margin of 16.2%. Peacock turned profitable for the first time, wireless lines crossed a major subscriber milestone, and the company beat earnings estimates in its most recent quarter. Following the separation of Versant Media Group, management has also sharpened its focus toward the Content and Experiences segments, spanning film, television, and theme parks, giving the enterprise wireless buildout room to grow alongside a leaner core.
The residential side of the business tells a different story. Broadband subscribers keep declining, and fiber operators and fixed wireless providers like Verizon and T-Mobile keep pressing on price and coverage. Comcast paused its share buyback program ahead of a planned NBCUniversal spinoff, a move that adds another layer of complexity for investors trying to track where the company is headed.
Security and legal costs have also piled up. Comcast agreed to a $117.5 million settlement over an Xfinity data breach, and cyberattack risk remains an ongoing concern given the scale of its subscriber base. The company also absorbed a noncash impairment charge of $8.6 billion tied to a Sky writedown, and rising costs for sports rights including the NFL and NBA are squeezing profitability in the media segment. With a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.1x and a current ratio of 0.9x, the balance sheet leaves less cushion than some peers to absorb further shocks.
#comcast
The Smartlink deployment replaces the kind of Distributed Antenna System infrastructure that used to require separate vendors and separate budgets. Comcast Business now delivers cellular coverage and a private network for cameras, access control, and occupancy sensors through a single platform built on licensed CBRS spectrum. It is not an isolated experiment either. Comcast has already rolled out similar systems at the University of Virginia, The Sound Hotel Seattle Belltown, and Rocket Arena for the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the company is positioning Smartlink as a replicable model for other commercial landlords.
That enterprise push sits on top of a business that still throws off enormous cash. Comcast generated free cash flow of nearly $21.9 billion in fiscal 2025 on revenue of about $123.7 billion, with net income near $20.0 billion, a net margin of 16.2%. Peacock turned profitable for the first time, wireless lines crossed a major subscriber milestone, and the company beat earnings estimates in its most recent quarter. Following the separation of Versant Media Group, management has also sharpened its focus toward the Content and Experiences segments, spanning film, television, and theme parks, giving the enterprise wireless buildout room to grow alongside a leaner core.
The residential side of the business tells a different story. Broadband subscribers keep declining, and fiber operators and fixed wireless providers like Verizon and T-Mobile keep pressing on price and coverage. Comcast paused its share buyback program ahead of a planned NBCUniversal spinoff, a move that adds another layer of complexity for investors trying to track where the company is headed.
Security and legal costs have also piled up. Comcast agreed to a $117.5 million settlement over an Xfinity data breach, and cyberattack risk remains an ongoing concern given the scale of its subscriber base. The company also absorbed a noncash impairment charge of $8.6 billion tied to a Sky writedown, and rising costs for sports rights including the NFL and NBA are squeezing profitability in the media segment. With a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.1x and a current ratio of 0.9x, the balance sheet leaves less cushion than some peers to absorb further shocks.
#comcast
3 months ago
There are plenty of new faces in new places as the 2026 college football season inches closer. Some of these coaches in the first year with their new programs are tasked with resetting the culture, others are expected to bring a sense of stability, and a select few are burdened with the mandate to win right away.
Penn State head coach Matt Campbell certainly won't be fired or reprimanded if he struggles in his first year in Happy Valley, but this is a proud program that won't accept mediocrity or underachievement for very long. Brad Crawford of CBS Sports predicted the records for each new coach this season, and the Nittany Lions' leader got a respectable estimate at 9-3.
This record is tied for third-best among all of Crawford's coaching predictions, with Utah coach Morgan Scalley and LSU coach Lane Kiffin ranked higher. Campbell is even expected to do better than Kyle Whittingham at Michigan, who is arguably walking into a much easier situation with a lot more talent.
9-3 likely wouldn't be enough to get into the College Football Playoff, but it would secure a Bowl Game and be a much smoother ride than last year's rollercoaster. Crawford has Penn State going 6-3 in the Big Ten, likely meaning losses against Michigan and USC. It hopefully wouldn't be a sign of things to come, but after more than a decade of big-game blunders under the leadership of James Franklin, it would be a relief for fans if Campbell didn't begin his tenure losing two of his only big games in the conference.
It's tough to gauge any team's standing right now with no games or scrimmages happening, but the vibes seem to be positive around the Nittany Lions at the moment. Let's see if they can parlay this energy into a successful season that shocks some people.
#coach #penn #crawford #college
Penn State head coach Matt Campbell certainly won't be fired or reprimanded if he struggles in his first year in Happy Valley, but this is a proud program that won't accept mediocrity or underachievement for very long. Brad Crawford of CBS Sports predicted the records for each new coach this season, and the Nittany Lions' leader got a respectable estimate at 9-3.
This record is tied for third-best among all of Crawford's coaching predictions, with Utah coach Morgan Scalley and LSU coach Lane Kiffin ranked higher. Campbell is even expected to do better than Kyle Whittingham at Michigan, who is arguably walking into a much easier situation with a lot more talent.
9-3 likely wouldn't be enough to get into the College Football Playoff, but it would secure a Bowl Game and be a much smoother ride than last year's rollercoaster. Crawford has Penn State going 6-3 in the Big Ten, likely meaning losses against Michigan and USC. It hopefully wouldn't be a sign of things to come, but after more than a decade of big-game blunders under the leadership of James Franklin, it would be a relief for fans if Campbell didn't begin his tenure losing two of his only big games in the conference.
It's tough to gauge any team's standing right now with no games or scrimmages happening, but the vibes seem to be positive around the Nittany Lions at the moment. Let's see if they can parlay this energy into a successful season that shocks some people.
#coach #penn #crawford #college
3 months ago
The conventional view of the Hormuz crisis is that China has been caught in an energy trap. It is the world's largest crude importer, the Gulf remains one of its most important sources of supply, and an estimated 45–50% of Chinese crude imports normally transit the Strait of Hormuz. When traffic through the strait slows, Beijing cannot simply replace all those barrels overnight. That vulnerability is real. But it is also incomplete.
China entered this crisis with large strategic and commercial inventories, diversified suppliers and the ability to suppress refinery runs. More importantly, it entered with something previous oil-importing economies did not have during earlier supply shocks: a rapidly electrifying transport system already removing more than one million barrels per day of potential oil demand.
Strategic reserves buy time. Electrification changes the balance permanently.
The missing 1.35 million barrels per day
In the first half of 2026, China's electric vehicle fleet displaced an estimated 34 million tonnes of oil. Using a standard conversion for crude-equivalent volumes, that is around 1.35 million barrels per day, more than 1% of total global oil consumption.
#hormuz
China entered this crisis with large strategic and commercial inventories, diversified suppliers and the ability to suppress refinery runs. More importantly, it entered with something previous oil-importing economies did not have during earlier supply shocks: a rapidly electrifying transport system already removing more than one million barrels per day of potential oil demand.
Strategic reserves buy time. Electrification changes the balance permanently.
The missing 1.35 million barrels per day
In the first half of 2026, China's electric vehicle fleet displaced an estimated 34 million tonnes of oil. Using a standard conversion for crude-equivalent volumes, that is around 1.35 million barrels per day, more than 1% of total global oil consumption.
#hormuz
3 months ago
Philadelphia Federal Reserve president Anna Paulson said Tuesday that she supported the decision to hold interest rates steady last week and is keeping an open mind about next steps on setting rates, depending on where inflation moves.
"The recent improvement in some inflation data is welcome," Paulson said in a speech ***** led "Keeping an Open Mind."
"It is a step in the right direction, but it is only one step … I am keeping an open mind about where policy goes from here," she said.
Paulson said she's focused on gathering more information to better understand what's happening with inflation. ***** sing underlying inflation — what price growth would be without the temporary effects of tariffs and energy shocks — she estimates it's running somewhere between 2.4% and 2.8%. Paulson underscored that inflation has been elevated for a long time, and that persistence is what she's most focused on as she evaluates bringing it back to the Fed's 2% goal.
As the conflict in the Middle East has repeatedly subsided and then flared up again, old tariffs expired, new tariffs were put in place, and more artificial intelligence investments were announced, Paulson said the economy looks fairly the same and the job market is stable.
#paulson #keeping #mind #tariffs
"The recent improvement in some inflation data is welcome," Paulson said in a speech ***** led "Keeping an Open Mind."
"It is a step in the right direction, but it is only one step … I am keeping an open mind about where policy goes from here," she said.
Paulson said she's focused on gathering more information to better understand what's happening with inflation. ***** sing underlying inflation — what price growth would be without the temporary effects of tariffs and energy shocks — she estimates it's running somewhere between 2.4% and 2.8%. Paulson underscored that inflation has been elevated for a long time, and that persistence is what she's most focused on as she evaluates bringing it back to the Fed's 2% goal.
As the conflict in the Middle East has repeatedly subsided and then flared up again, old tariffs expired, new tariffs were put in place, and more artificial intelligence investments were announced, Paulson said the economy looks fairly the same and the job market is stable.
#paulson #keeping #mind #tariffs
