10 days ago
NEW YORK – Another forensic dive into a disappointing Yankees finish is underway, discussing method and gathering intel on how to make a better run at the Canyon of Heroes in 2027.
That storied stretch of lower Broadway hasn't seen a parade of Yankees in 17 years.
Nearly two weeks since his team was swept by the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL Division Series, Yankees GM Brian Cashman has yet to publicly address how it ended or hint at the strategy ahead.
These are among the biggest questions revolving around Yankees Universe as the World Series begins elsewhere later this week:
Cashman's contract expires at year's end, while manager Aaron Boone's deal runs through the 2027 season.
#york #heroes #nearly
That storied stretch of lower Broadway hasn't seen a parade of Yankees in 17 years.
Nearly two weeks since his team was swept by the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL Division Series, Yankees GM Brian Cashman has yet to publicly address how it ended or hint at the strategy ahead.
These are among the biggest questions revolving around Yankees Universe as the World Series begins elsewhere later this week:
Cashman's contract expires at year's end, while manager Aaron Boone's deal runs through the 2027 season.
#york #heroes #nearly
10 days ago
Liverpool have developed a reputation for having one of the best academies in world football in recent years.
The club has the ability to show prospective additions a clear pathway to the first-team, and the Reds' senior squad has been littered with academy graduates in recent years.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott, Conor Bradley, Jarell Quansah and Coaimhin Kelleher are just some of the examples of recent graduates from the Kirkby to have become important parts of the team at Anfield.
The club have adopted the strategy of recruiting some of the world's most promising youngsters to the academy, and it is clearly working.
Lewis Koumas, Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha have all established themselves as important first-team squad players in the early days of Andoni Iraola's tenure at Anfield.
#first
The club has the ability to show prospective additions a clear pathway to the first-team, and the Reds' senior squad has been littered with academy graduates in recent years.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott, Conor Bradley, Jarell Quansah and Coaimhin Kelleher are just some of the examples of recent graduates from the Kirkby to have become important parts of the team at Anfield.
The club have adopted the strategy of recruiting some of the world's most promising youngsters to the academy, and it is clearly working.
Lewis Koumas, Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha have all established themselves as important first-team squad players in the early days of Andoni Iraola's tenure at Anfield.
#first
10 days ago
Round 18 of the 2026 Formula 1 season heads to the Circuit of the Americas for the United States Grand Prix, from 23-25 October.
In the previous race in Singapore, it was a dominant weekend for Max Verstappen who qualified on pole and won for both the sprint and main race - his first victories at the Marina Bay Circuit.
The Ferraris were consistently on the Dutchman's tail for the majority of the weekend, but a poor strategy call from Lewis Hamilton meant he could only finish sixth. His team-mate Charles Leclerc finished second with Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli third.
Antonelli has his first opportunity to secure this year's world **** le in Austin. For that to happen, the Italian must win the race with Mercedes team-mate Russell ninth or lower and Hamilton finishing fifth or lower.
The clocks go back in the UK on race day so we will be on BST for the Friday and Saturday sessions but GMT for the race.
#team
In the previous race in Singapore, it was a dominant weekend for Max Verstappen who qualified on pole and won for both the sprint and main race - his first victories at the Marina Bay Circuit.
The Ferraris were consistently on the Dutchman's tail for the majority of the weekend, but a poor strategy call from Lewis Hamilton meant he could only finish sixth. His team-mate Charles Leclerc finished second with Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli third.
Antonelli has his first opportunity to secure this year's world **** le in Austin. For that to happen, the Italian must win the race with Mercedes team-mate Russell ninth or lower and Hamilton finishing fifth or lower.
The clocks go back in the UK on race day so we will be on BST for the Friday and Saturday sessions but GMT for the race.
#team
21 days ago
Bezos told Fox News he would "usually" advise retirees to buy the S&P 500 rather than individual AI stocks, leaving room for exceptions.
The S&P 500 already provides AI exposure, with NVDA, MSFT, and GOOGL making up roughly 19% of the index.
BlackRock warns the S&P 500 alone isn't enough for retirement, recommending an income-focused strategy instead.
Just released. Our ****** ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now, and Amazon didn't make the cut. Enter your email to see the names that beat AMZN. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
Jeff Bezos, who founded Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), was asked in a Fox News interview who gets hurt when the AI bubble pops. He named the "speculators". He said they can lose money because they are investing in all of these things, but the innovations do not disappear.
#bezos #named #email #nvda
The S&P 500 already provides AI exposure, with NVDA, MSFT, and GOOGL making up roughly 19% of the index.
BlackRock warns the S&P 500 alone isn't enough for retirement, recommending an income-focused strategy instead.
Just released. Our ****** ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now, and Amazon didn't make the cut. Enter your email to see the names that beat AMZN. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
Jeff Bezos, who founded Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), was asked in a Fox News interview who gets hurt when the AI bubble pops. He named the "speculators". He said they can lose money because they are investing in all of these things, but the innovations do not disappear.
#bezos #named #email #nvda
21 days ago
Eric Trump thinks artificial intelligence, not a crypto-specific trend, will drive the next phase of digital ****** et growth.
Trump was speaking at the Token2049 conference in Singapore on Oct. 7. "The thing that's going to spawn the growth of digital ****** ets by far the quickest is actually the AI trade," he said.
TOKEN2049 bills itself as the world's largest crypto event. The two-day Singapore edition runs October 7 and 8 at Marina Bay Sands, with more than 300 speakers and 500 exhibitors listed on its official site.
Eric Trump, a son of President Donald Trump, co-founded World Liberty Financial. It is a Trump family-linked crypto project that issues USD1, a dollar-backed stablecoin.
A stablecoin is a crypto token built to hold a steady $1 value. He is also co-founder and chief strategy officer of American Bitcoin, a Nasdaq-listed company that mines Bitcoin and holds it as a reserve ****** et.
#Trump #Crypto #token2049 #Growth
Trump was speaking at the Token2049 conference in Singapore on Oct. 7. "The thing that's going to spawn the growth of digital ****** ets by far the quickest is actually the AI trade," he said.
TOKEN2049 bills itself as the world's largest crypto event. The two-day Singapore edition runs October 7 and 8 at Marina Bay Sands, with more than 300 speakers and 500 exhibitors listed on its official site.
Eric Trump, a son of President Donald Trump, co-founded World Liberty Financial. It is a Trump family-linked crypto project that issues USD1, a dollar-backed stablecoin.
A stablecoin is a crypto token built to hold a steady $1 value. He is also co-founder and chief strategy officer of American Bitcoin, a Nasdaq-listed company that mines Bitcoin and holds it as a reserve ****** et.
#Trump #Crypto #token2049 #Growth
21 days ago
Young Americans are reconsidering the value of a college degree given the high cost of college and the prospect of taking on student loan debt, which is prompting some colleges and universities to cut tuition costs to attract students and boost enrollment.
A report by Bloomberg noted that several colleges and universities have announced plans to lower their tuition either this year or in the next academic year when students arrive on campus in fall 2027. For example, Emory & Henry University historically offered significant merit scholarships amounting to up to $23,000 to help students negate some of the $40,000 price tag they faced, the report noted.
However, the school moved to reduce tuition by half to $19,900 for undergraduate students this academic year to lower the sticker price students are evaluating, while still offering merit scholarships up to $5,000 and covering tuition costs for certain in-state students from Virginia who meet income criteria.
"Our tuition reduction plan was just one piece of a larger strategic enrollment strategy," said Dr. Louise "Lou" Fincher, president of Emory & Henry University, told FOX Business. "Ultimately, we wanted our published tuition to better reflect the real cost of an Emory & Henry education."
College President Warns Ai Could Strengthen Education – Or Create Dangerous Shortcuts: 'It's How We Manage It'
#students #university #Education #cost
A report by Bloomberg noted that several colleges and universities have announced plans to lower their tuition either this year or in the next academic year when students arrive on campus in fall 2027. For example, Emory & Henry University historically offered significant merit scholarships amounting to up to $23,000 to help students negate some of the $40,000 price tag they faced, the report noted.
However, the school moved to reduce tuition by half to $19,900 for undergraduate students this academic year to lower the sticker price students are evaluating, while still offering merit scholarships up to $5,000 and covering tuition costs for certain in-state students from Virginia who meet income criteria.
"Our tuition reduction plan was just one piece of a larger strategic enrollment strategy," said Dr. Louise "Lou" Fincher, president of Emory & Henry University, told FOX Business. "Ultimately, we wanted our published tuition to better reflect the real cost of an Emory & Henry education."
College President Warns Ai Could Strengthen Education – Or Create Dangerous Shortcuts: 'It's How We Manage It'
#students #university #Education #cost
21 days ago
A Medicaid divorce lets the at-home spouse keep the house and up to $162,660 while Medicaid covers the nursing home's $9,277 monthly bill.
The strategy requires a real court-ordered divorce, since Medicaid's five-year look-back treats uneven transfers as gifts and penalizes them.
Before filing, families should exhaust spousal refusal, Medicaid-compliant annuities, and exempt-asset conversions, since a divorce strips survivor benefits and medical decision rights.
Just released. Our ***** ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
A Medicaid divorce, involves a long-married couple legally ending their marriage as part of a long-term care strategy. He enters a nursing home that Medicaid may cover, while she keeps the house and a larger share of their savings to protect her retirement. It's a real but uncommon strategy. State laws may vary, and many attorneys consider it a last resort.
#medicaid #real #since #stocks
The strategy requires a real court-ordered divorce, since Medicaid's five-year look-back treats uneven transfers as gifts and penalizes them.
Before filing, families should exhaust spousal refusal, Medicaid-compliant annuities, and exempt-asset conversions, since a divorce strips survivor benefits and medical decision rights.
Just released. Our ***** ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
A Medicaid divorce, involves a long-married couple legally ending their marriage as part of a long-term care strategy. He enters a nursing home that Medicaid may cover, while she keeps the house and a larger share of their savings to protect her retirement. It's a real but uncommon strategy. State laws may vary, and many attorneys consider it a last resort.
#medicaid #real #since #stocks
22 days ago
Retirement isn't supposed to be a financial obstacle course. But for many retirees, it becomes one — not because they didn't save enough, but because they're avoiding the very decisions that could protect what they've already built. Small postponements and wishful thinking can quietly spiral into serious money problems.
Financial advisors see it happen again and again: retirees who put off critical decisions until the damage is done. Here are five avoidance moves that consistently undermine retirement security.
Without a realistic retirement plan, it's easy to spend more than your savings can actually support.
"What makes this especially difficult is that the conversation goes beyond just the numbers," explained Linda Grizely, financial wellness and behavioral finance speaker. "It can feel like a judgment about lifestyle, independence and past financial choices."
Most retirees keep doing what feels comfortable and hope it works out. Instead, Grizely recommended mapping your cash flow, spending, income, investments, taxes and account withdrawal strategy. Revisit this at least annually and whenever spending, markets, taxes, health or life circumstances shift.
#retirees #grizely #spending
Financial advisors see it happen again and again: retirees who put off critical decisions until the damage is done. Here are five avoidance moves that consistently undermine retirement security.
Without a realistic retirement plan, it's easy to spend more than your savings can actually support.
"What makes this especially difficult is that the conversation goes beyond just the numbers," explained Linda Grizely, financial wellness and behavioral finance speaker. "It can feel like a judgment about lifestyle, independence and past financial choices."
Most retirees keep doing what feels comfortable and hope it works out. Instead, Grizely recommended mapping your cash flow, spending, income, investments, taxes and account withdrawal strategy. Revisit this at least annually and whenever spending, markets, taxes, health or life circumstances shift.
#retirees #grizely #spending
22 days ago
SmartAsset and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue through links in the content below.
Deciding how much to withdraw from your retirement accounts means finding a balance between enjoying life and making your money last. Taking too little leaves you with unused savings, while taking too much risks running out of money later. Taxes also affect how much you can actually spend. To help you create a retirement budget, let's break down the example of a 67-year-old with $870,000 in a 401(k), $120,000 in an IRA and $26,400 annually from Social Security. Here's what a withdrawal plan could look based on two rates.
A financial advisor can help you create a withdrawal strategy that balances your lifestyle needs, tax impacts and long-term retirement goals.
A 401(k) and a traditional IRA are both retirement accounts funded with pre-tax dollars. Contributions are deducted from your taxable income, allowing you to grow savings faster because the money enters the account before taxes. In retirement, however, all withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income. This includes both the money you contributed and the investment earnings.
This is different from a Roth IRA, which is funded with after-tax dollars. You do not receive an upfront tax deduction for contributions. The benefit comes later: withdrawals in retirement are tax-free, including both contributions and earnings.
#taking #taxes #later #Help
Deciding how much to withdraw from your retirement accounts means finding a balance between enjoying life and making your money last. Taking too little leaves you with unused savings, while taking too much risks running out of money later. Taxes also affect how much you can actually spend. To help you create a retirement budget, let's break down the example of a 67-year-old with $870,000 in a 401(k), $120,000 in an IRA and $26,400 annually from Social Security. Here's what a withdrawal plan could look based on two rates.
A financial advisor can help you create a withdrawal strategy that balances your lifestyle needs, tax impacts and long-term retirement goals.
A 401(k) and a traditional IRA are both retirement accounts funded with pre-tax dollars. Contributions are deducted from your taxable income, allowing you to grow savings faster because the money enters the account before taxes. In retirement, however, all withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income. This includes both the money you contributed and the investment earnings.
This is different from a Roth IRA, which is funded with after-tax dollars. You do not receive an upfront tax deduction for contributions. The benefit comes later: withdrawals in retirement are tax-free, including both contributions and earnings.
#taking #taxes #later #Help
22 days ago
Apple's 2.5B active devices and 1.5B paid subscriptions let it monetize AI without heavy data center spending, fueling a 9th straight EPS beat.
Microsoft's AI infrastructure spending surged 79% to $116B, shrinking free cash flow, while Apple's customers fund AI hardware themselves.
Siri AI awaits EU and China approval, iCloud+ upgrades haven't launched yet, and a $30B Broadcom chip deal gives Apple untapped upside catalysts.
Read More: Learn 7 ways to generate income with a $1,000,000+ portfolio (sponsor)
I added to my Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) position this month and expect to add more after the October 29 earnings report. The market has misunderstood Apple's AI strategy.
#Apple #broadcom
Microsoft's AI infrastructure spending surged 79% to $116B, shrinking free cash flow, while Apple's customers fund AI hardware themselves.
Siri AI awaits EU and China approval, iCloud+ upgrades haven't launched yet, and a $30B Broadcom chip deal gives Apple untapped upside catalysts.
Read More: Learn 7 ways to generate income with a $1,000,000+ portfolio (sponsor)
I added to my Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) position this month and expect to add more after the October 29 earnings report. The market has misunderstood Apple's AI strategy.
#Apple #broadcom
23 days ago
SmartAsset and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue through links in the content below.
During most of the decades you are preparing financially for retirement, you are likely focused on saving as close as you can get to the recommended amount, without worrying too much about the details. As you approach retirement, however, it's a good idea to look more closely at what might be a realistic retirement budget. At age 62, with $890,000 in a 401(k) account, $115,000 in a Roth IRA and accounting for Social Security benefits, you can likely generate enough income to cover typical retiree lifestyle expenses. Your individual needs may vary, of course, but there are likely moves you can make now and in retirement to give you the flexibility you'll need to fund a comfortable and secure retirement.
Consider speaking with a financial advisor for help building an effective retirement strategy.
A typical retirement budget starts with the income side and Social Security benefits represent an important part of that for a large majority of retirees. Social Security is lifelong, guaranteed by the U.S. government and includes annual cost-of-living adjustments to keep up with inflation. The amount of your specific benefit is controlled by your work history and age at claiming. ****** uming your current income is $90,000 annually, here are estimates of your annual Social Security benefit based on your age when you start claiming benefits:
Age
#annual
During most of the decades you are preparing financially for retirement, you are likely focused on saving as close as you can get to the recommended amount, without worrying too much about the details. As you approach retirement, however, it's a good idea to look more closely at what might be a realistic retirement budget. At age 62, with $890,000 in a 401(k) account, $115,000 in a Roth IRA and accounting for Social Security benefits, you can likely generate enough income to cover typical retiree lifestyle expenses. Your individual needs may vary, of course, but there are likely moves you can make now and in retirement to give you the flexibility you'll need to fund a comfortable and secure retirement.
Consider speaking with a financial advisor for help building an effective retirement strategy.
A typical retirement budget starts with the income side and Social Security benefits represent an important part of that for a large majority of retirees. Social Security is lifelong, guaranteed by the U.S. government and includes annual cost-of-living adjustments to keep up with inflation. The amount of your specific benefit is controlled by your work history and age at claiming. ****** uming your current income is $90,000 annually, here are estimates of your annual Social Security benefit based on your age when you start claiming benefits:
Age
#annual
23 days ago
Disney raised prices on many of its theme park offerings today, coinciding with the start of the company’s new fiscal year. But consumers aren’t pushing back the way they did a few years ago.
Disney’s price hikes are an annual October ritual for the company, and it’s always a tricky balancing act between increasing revenue and consumers’ willingness to pay.
Many ticket types, passes and add-ons at Disneyland are not increasing at all this time. But premium products are getting more expensive, like the highest-level, skip-the-line service at Walt Disney World, which could now run just shy of the $500 mark during peak demand.
It’s a reflection of the company’s strategy: Spread the price boosts across different audiences, while leaving bottom-tier prices - like the slowest season, one-day, one-park tickets - unchanged.
Its theme parks strategy, Disney said, has evolved over time. Higher-priced premium products and add-ons, alongside targeted discounts and a refresh of older attractions, allowed the company this summer to generate the strongest parks and cruises revenue in two years.
#disney #company #consumers
Disney’s price hikes are an annual October ritual for the company, and it’s always a tricky balancing act between increasing revenue and consumers’ willingness to pay.
Many ticket types, passes and add-ons at Disneyland are not increasing at all this time. But premium products are getting more expensive, like the highest-level, skip-the-line service at Walt Disney World, which could now run just shy of the $500 mark during peak demand.
It’s a reflection of the company’s strategy: Spread the price boosts across different audiences, while leaving bottom-tier prices - like the slowest season, one-day, one-park tickets - unchanged.
Its theme parks strategy, Disney said, has evolved over time. Higher-priced premium products and add-ons, alongside targeted discounts and a refresh of older attractions, allowed the company this summer to generate the strongest parks and cruises revenue in two years.
#disney #company #consumers
23 days ago
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Credit: Amazon Prime
I think anyone with an Amazon Prime Video subscription probably understands that Alan Ritchson is jacked, whether or not they watched Reacher Season 4. The man is splashed all over the home screen on the streamer between his various movies and his very popular TV show. He's a big, fit guy, and as a gym girlie myself, I know this takes dedication and diligence. I just didn't realize the "high high volume" of reps he was putting in.
Ritchson recently sat down with Thomas DeLauer Podcast, and explain his strategy for staying swole. Some of this involves eating right and throwing in a lot of HIIT cardio with sprints and the Stairmaster, the latter of which does not always go over so well. Some of this is because he literally likes to do four sets at 25 reps of a given exercise.
Gym newbies are often taught to do three sets of eight for each exercise, and maybe push to nine or 10 before going up a plate or free weight. People who are more intermediate or advanced often throw in extra sets or increase reps at a lower weight to keep things interesting, so it's not like a giant surprise Alan Ritchson might do longer rep sets. BUT 100 reps for one exercise is a lot.
#ritchson #reps #exercise
Credit: Amazon Prime
I think anyone with an Amazon Prime Video subscription probably understands that Alan Ritchson is jacked, whether or not they watched Reacher Season 4. The man is splashed all over the home screen on the streamer between his various movies and his very popular TV show. He's a big, fit guy, and as a gym girlie myself, I know this takes dedication and diligence. I just didn't realize the "high high volume" of reps he was putting in.
Ritchson recently sat down with Thomas DeLauer Podcast, and explain his strategy for staying swole. Some of this involves eating right and throwing in a lot of HIIT cardio with sprints and the Stairmaster, the latter of which does not always go over so well. Some of this is because he literally likes to do four sets at 25 reps of a given exercise.
Gym newbies are often taught to do three sets of eight for each exercise, and maybe push to nine or 10 before going up a plate or free weight. People who are more intermediate or advanced often throw in extra sets or increase reps at a lower weight to keep things interesting, so it's not like a giant surprise Alan Ritchson might do longer rep sets. BUT 100 reps for one exercise is a lot.
#ritchson #reps #exercise
23 days ago
Prince William and Kate Middleton may be raising the future King of Britain. However, their children reportedly use far more ordinary names once they step into the classroom. Instead of relying on their royal ***** les, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis follow a long-standing royal tradition. The strategy helps keep their school life as normal as possible.
Officially, the public knows them as Prince George of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales, and Prince Louis of Wales. However, the royal siblings reportedly go by much simpler names during the school day.
According to Hola!, the children use the surname "Wales" at school, making them George Wales, Charlotte Wales, and Louis Wales. The reported practice allows them to blend in more naturally with classmates while leaving their royal ***** les outside the classroom.
The surname comes from their parents' ***** les as the Prince and Princess of Wales. Before King Charles III ascended the throne in 2022, the children reportedly used "Cambridge" as their school surname. They adopted the moniker because William and Kate were then the Duke and ***** ss of Cambridge.
George has recently entered a new chapter in his education after starting at Eton College, following in his father's footsteps. Meanwhile, Charlotte and Louis continue attending Lambrook School.
#wales
Officially, the public knows them as Prince George of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales, and Prince Louis of Wales. However, the royal siblings reportedly go by much simpler names during the school day.
According to Hola!, the children use the surname "Wales" at school, making them George Wales, Charlotte Wales, and Louis Wales. The reported practice allows them to blend in more naturally with classmates while leaving their royal ***** les outside the classroom.
The surname comes from their parents' ***** les as the Prince and Princess of Wales. Before King Charles III ascended the throne in 2022, the children reportedly used "Cambridge" as their school surname. They adopted the moniker because William and Kate were then the Duke and ***** ss of Cambridge.
George has recently entered a new chapter in his education after starting at Eton College, following in his father's footsteps. Meanwhile, Charlotte and Louis continue attending Lambrook School.
#wales
23 days ago
One of the secrets of Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRKA) (NYSE: BRKB) and its success in the stock market has been its focus on value. Whether led by former Chief Executive Officer Warren Buffett or its current leader, Greg Abel, Berkshire has always focused on buying stocks when they are significantly below their intrinsic value.
On top of that, Berkshire's management team has sought companies that have significant advantages over their competitors -- an economic moat -- operating in a mature industry with reliable cash flow.
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 »
That strategy has helped Berkshire Hathaway build an investment portfolio valued at about $350 billion -- and generate returns that averaged 19.7% during the past 60 years, nearly double the S&P 500's (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) return.
In today's go-go market, which is focused so heavily on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other technological advances, it's easy to forget that there are some great value stocks available -- and at comparatively dirt cheap prices. Three such stocks currently in Berkshire's portfolio are American Express (NYSE: AXP), The New York Times Company (NYSE: NYT), and DaVita (NYSE: DVA). Here's the case for buying and holding each of them right now.
#NVIDIA #value #stocks
On top of that, Berkshire's management team has sought companies that have significant advantages over their competitors -- an economic moat -- operating in a mature industry with reliable cash flow.
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 »
That strategy has helped Berkshire Hathaway build an investment portfolio valued at about $350 billion -- and generate returns that averaged 19.7% during the past 60 years, nearly double the S&P 500's (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) return.
In today's go-go market, which is focused so heavily on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other technological advances, it's easy to forget that there are some great value stocks available -- and at comparatively dirt cheap prices. Three such stocks currently in Berkshire's portfolio are American Express (NYSE: AXP), The New York Times Company (NYSE: NYT), and DaVita (NYSE: DVA). Here's the case for buying and holding each of them right now.
#NVIDIA #value #stocks
23 days ago
Sarah Ferguson reportedly wants King Charles and senior royals to "throw her a bone" before she considers other options. The former **** ss of York was said to be delaying a tell-all while hoping for renewed royal acceptance.
A source claimed she still believed there was "a place for her within the royal family." However, the insider warned that continued exclusion could change her position. Her reported strategy mixed loyalty, leverage, and hopes for a royal comeback.
As per a Closer Online report, Sarah reportedly reconsidered her options. The source said Earl Spencer's memoir offered "a good reminder" of the disruption a royal tell-all could create. Moreover, the insider claimed Sarah's long history with the royals gave her considerable material. They said she could potentially do "a lot more damage to the King's legacy" than Spencer. Still, a spokesperson firmly denied a current memoir project. The representative said, "She is not writing a personal memoir."
However, the insider claimed Sarah Ferguson was keeping that possibility available while hoping for another route. The source said she was "holding off on a book deal for now." According to them, Sarah remained convinced "there's still a place for her within the royal family." She reportedly hoped loyalty would persuade King Charles and others to "cut her a break." That could mean "a path back towards respectability" or "at the very least a place to live." Meanwhile, the source said she still had "the tell-all up her sleeve" if that effort failed.
Additionally, the insider claimed Sarah was sending messages toward both Charles and Prince William. She was reportedly "imploring William and Charles to throw her a bone." The source added that she did not want to "go against the family if she can help it." Still, the report said Sarah could pursue other money-making opportunities if reconciliation failed. Those possibilities reportedly included reality television and rebuilding her social media profile. For now, Buckingham Palace had made no direct statement about Sarah. Meanwhile, senior royals had reportedly continued distancing themselves from the former York household.
#reportedly #royal
A source claimed she still believed there was "a place for her within the royal family." However, the insider warned that continued exclusion could change her position. Her reported strategy mixed loyalty, leverage, and hopes for a royal comeback.
As per a Closer Online report, Sarah reportedly reconsidered her options. The source said Earl Spencer's memoir offered "a good reminder" of the disruption a royal tell-all could create. Moreover, the insider claimed Sarah's long history with the royals gave her considerable material. They said she could potentially do "a lot more damage to the King's legacy" than Spencer. Still, a spokesperson firmly denied a current memoir project. The representative said, "She is not writing a personal memoir."
However, the insider claimed Sarah Ferguson was keeping that possibility available while hoping for another route. The source said she was "holding off on a book deal for now." According to them, Sarah remained convinced "there's still a place for her within the royal family." She reportedly hoped loyalty would persuade King Charles and others to "cut her a break." That could mean "a path back towards respectability" or "at the very least a place to live." Meanwhile, the source said she still had "the tell-all up her sleeve" if that effort failed.
Additionally, the insider claimed Sarah was sending messages toward both Charles and Prince William. She was reportedly "imploring William and Charles to throw her a bone." The source added that she did not want to "go against the family if she can help it." Still, the report said Sarah could pursue other money-making opportunities if reconciliation failed. Those possibilities reportedly included reality television and rebuilding her social media profile. For now, Buckingham Palace had made no direct statement about Sarah. Meanwhile, senior royals had reportedly continued distancing themselves from the former York household.
#reportedly #royal
26 days ago
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's security dispute is in the news again after two men were spotted near the new school their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are enrolled in.
The two men, said to be European paparazzi, were described by the Sussexes' spokesperson as exhibiting "extraordinarily reckless" behavior and compared it to the recent security incident at RAF Fairford.
As Prince Harry and Meghan's request for taxpayer-funded police protection is pending RAVEC review, a royal author has branded the way they have handled the recent paparazzi story a "cynical strategy."
Steven Bergman/AFF-USA.COM / MEGA
Royal author Robert Jobson believes that the way Harry and Meghan have publicly discussed their security incidents could make it hard for the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) to leave their security arrangements as is.
#harry #royal #meghan
The two men, said to be European paparazzi, were described by the Sussexes' spokesperson as exhibiting "extraordinarily reckless" behavior and compared it to the recent security incident at RAF Fairford.
As Prince Harry and Meghan's request for taxpayer-funded police protection is pending RAVEC review, a royal author has branded the way they have handled the recent paparazzi story a "cynical strategy."
Steven Bergman/AFF-USA.COM / MEGA
Royal author Robert Jobson believes that the way Harry and Meghan have publicly discussed their security incidents could make it hard for the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) to leave their security arrangements as is.
#harry #royal #meghan
29 days ago
By Waylon Cunningham
NEW YORK, Sept 29 (Reuters) - McDonald's is increasingly using artificial intelligence to guide menu prices across the U.S. and some global markets, a plan that aims to boost headquarters' profit but risks alienating customers and attracting antitrust scrutiny.
One pricing factor supercharged by AI: an estimate of how much each store's patrons are willing to pay.
The details of how that pricing system works, its extensive use of AI, the company's regulatory concerns and the tensions with its franchisees haven't been previously reported. For this story, Reuters reviewed screenshots of the company pricing engine taken in August and interviewed nine sources with first-hand knowledge of the burger chain's strategy.
McDonald's pricing engine uses machine-learning algorithms to continually ****** yze data from millions of daily transactions across McDonald's nearly 14,000 restaurants and generate what the company calls "the optimal price" at each location for each menu item, from Big Macs to discounted coffee for seniors.
#pricing #company #engine #cunningham
NEW YORK, Sept 29 (Reuters) - McDonald's is increasingly using artificial intelligence to guide menu prices across the U.S. and some global markets, a plan that aims to boost headquarters' profit but risks alienating customers and attracting antitrust scrutiny.
One pricing factor supercharged by AI: an estimate of how much each store's patrons are willing to pay.
The details of how that pricing system works, its extensive use of AI, the company's regulatory concerns and the tensions with its franchisees haven't been previously reported. For this story, Reuters reviewed screenshots of the company pricing engine taken in August and interviewed nine sources with first-hand knowledge of the burger chain's strategy.
McDonald's pricing engine uses machine-learning algorithms to continually ****** yze data from millions of daily transactions across McDonald's nearly 14,000 restaurants and generate what the company calls "the optimal price" at each location for each menu item, from Big Macs to discounted coffee for seniors.
#pricing #company #engine #cunningham
1 month ago
On September 17, Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:LCID) and Bolt, a leading European shared mobility platform, announced a strategic partnership to develop and deploy autonomous mobility services across Europe. This sent shares of Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:LCID) higher, and the stock ended the trading session with gains of nearly 6%.
The partnership will combine Lucid Group, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:LCID) software-defined vehicle platform with Bolt's European data, operating infrastructure, and mobility expertise. The companies will be looking to develop and launch autonomous mobility services at scale, using vehicles based on Lucid Group, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:LCID) upcoming Midsize platform.
Bolt plans to deploy at least 25,000 fully autonomous vehicles across multiple European cities and countries, supporting its ambitious goal of having 100,000 autonomous vehicles on its platform by 2035.
The financial details of the partnership were not disclosed.
The deal comes as Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:LCID) continues to face significant financial pressure. The company has been pursuing an ambitious expansion strategy. However, its revenue growth has not yet been enough to offset substantial operating losses and the high costs ****** ociated with building its global factories.
#lcid #european #platform #partnership
The partnership will combine Lucid Group, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:LCID) software-defined vehicle platform with Bolt's European data, operating infrastructure, and mobility expertise. The companies will be looking to develop and launch autonomous mobility services at scale, using vehicles based on Lucid Group, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:LCID) upcoming Midsize platform.
Bolt plans to deploy at least 25,000 fully autonomous vehicles across multiple European cities and countries, supporting its ambitious goal of having 100,000 autonomous vehicles on its platform by 2035.
The financial details of the partnership were not disclosed.
The deal comes as Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:LCID) continues to face significant financial pressure. The company has been pursuing an ambitious expansion strategy. However, its revenue growth has not yet been enough to offset substantial operating losses and the high costs ****** ociated with building its global factories.
#lcid #european #platform #partnership
1 month ago
On September 9, 2026, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) unveiled the iPhone Duo, its first foldable smartphone and the biggest change to the iPhone's design in nearly 20 years, at the first product launch event led by new CEO John Ternus since he succeeded Tim Cook on September 1. The book-style, passport-shaped device opens into a 7.6-inch display, Apple's largest ever, starts at $1,999 for the 256-gigabyte model and rises to $3,199 for 2 terabytes of storage. This makes it the most expensive iPhone Apple has ever sold, with availability set for October 23.
The iPhone Duo gives Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) a new premium growth opportunity in a mature smartphone market. Apple entered the foldable market with the $1,999 Duo. It creates a new high-end product category within its largest hardware franchise. ******* ysts expect Apple to take a real share of the foldable market. The firm's brand strength and large installed base could help speed up use of foldable smartphones.
The Duo creates a materially different iPhone experience that could encourage upgrades and attract Android users. The device opens to a 7.6-inch display, supports side-by-side multitasking, and offers a tablet-like experience in a pocketable design. Apple also shows the Duo's ******* anium frame, custom hinge, A20 Pro chip, and Apple Intelligence features. It gives customers several reasons to pay a substantial premium for the new form factor.
The launch solidifies Apple's hardware innovation strategy under new CEO John Ternus. The Duo represents Apple's most significant iPhone redesign since the iPhone X. It gives Ternus an opportunity to reignite enthusiasm around the company's hardware portfolio. The product also expands Apple's ability to monetize its ecosystem through higher-value hardware, services, and accessories as customers spend more time using a larger, more versatile iPhone.
The $1,999 starting price could keep the Duo a niche product. Reuters reported that the global foldable market could account for less than 3% of smartphone sales in 2026. ******* ysts expect only about 6 million Duo units as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) enters the category. Even strong market share would turn into a relatively small contribution compared with Apple's broader iPhone business.
#iphone #aapl
The iPhone Duo gives Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) a new premium growth opportunity in a mature smartphone market. Apple entered the foldable market with the $1,999 Duo. It creates a new high-end product category within its largest hardware franchise. ******* ysts expect Apple to take a real share of the foldable market. The firm's brand strength and large installed base could help speed up use of foldable smartphones.
The Duo creates a materially different iPhone experience that could encourage upgrades and attract Android users. The device opens to a 7.6-inch display, supports side-by-side multitasking, and offers a tablet-like experience in a pocketable design. Apple also shows the Duo's ******* anium frame, custom hinge, A20 Pro chip, and Apple Intelligence features. It gives customers several reasons to pay a substantial premium for the new form factor.
The launch solidifies Apple's hardware innovation strategy under new CEO John Ternus. The Duo represents Apple's most significant iPhone redesign since the iPhone X. It gives Ternus an opportunity to reignite enthusiasm around the company's hardware portfolio. The product also expands Apple's ability to monetize its ecosystem through higher-value hardware, services, and accessories as customers spend more time using a larger, more versatile iPhone.
The $1,999 starting price could keep the Duo a niche product. Reuters reported that the global foldable market could account for less than 3% of smartphone sales in 2026. ******* ysts expect only about 6 million Duo units as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) enters the category. Even strong market share would turn into a relatively small contribution compared with Apple's broader iPhone business.
#iphone #aapl
1 month ago
On September 9, 2026, ****** og Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI) agreed to acquire privately held Alif Semiconductor for $1.35 billion in cash, with up to $200 million in additional contingent payments. It adds Alif's low-power, AI-native microcontrollers and fusion processors to ADI's portfolio of sensing, signal-processing and power-management technology. ADI CEO Vincent Roche described the deal as advancing "Physical Intelligence," letting systems sense, reason and act locally in real time. The acquisition is expected to close by the end of 2026 pending U.S. antitrust review.
Alif gives ****** og Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI) a direct foothold in the fast-growing edge-AI market. Alif's AI-native microcontrollers and fusion processors support low-latency inference, sensor fusion, and on-device AI. It allows systems to process information locally rather than relying entirely on the cloud. The acquisition also expands ADI's addressable market across industrial, data-center infrastructure, defense, energy, robotics, digital health and wearable applications.
ADI is acquiring technology that already has commercial traction. Alif's silicon already ships in production and has design wins with leading consumer and industrial customers. It gives ADI an established platform rather than an early-stage technology project. ADI can combine Alif's digital processing capabilities with its own sensing, signal-processing, power, connectivity and software technologies to offer more complete system solutions.
The acquisition fits ADI's push into AI while the core business makes strong cash flow. ADI completed its $1.5 billion Empower Semiconductor acquisition in July to strengthen power delivery for AI computing, while third-quarter revenue reached a record $4.02 billion, up 40% year over year, and trailing 12-month free cash flow reached $4.94 billion. The Alif deal therefore adds edge intelligence to an AI strategy while ADI retains substantial financial capacity to fund acquisitions and shareholder returns.
Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI) must make enough returns to justify the $1.35 billion upfront price. The firm will pay $1.35 billion in cash at closing and could pay another $200 million in contingent consideration. It takes the potential consideration to $1.55 billion. ADI therefore needs Alif's technology, customer wins, and expanded addressable market to turn into real revenue and earnings growth rather than simply adding another promising technology platform to its portfolio.
#analog #NASDAQ #power #acquisition
Alif gives ****** og Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI) a direct foothold in the fast-growing edge-AI market. Alif's AI-native microcontrollers and fusion processors support low-latency inference, sensor fusion, and on-device AI. It allows systems to process information locally rather than relying entirely on the cloud. The acquisition also expands ADI's addressable market across industrial, data-center infrastructure, defense, energy, robotics, digital health and wearable applications.
ADI is acquiring technology that already has commercial traction. Alif's silicon already ships in production and has design wins with leading consumer and industrial customers. It gives ADI an established platform rather than an early-stage technology project. ADI can combine Alif's digital processing capabilities with its own sensing, signal-processing, power, connectivity and software technologies to offer more complete system solutions.
The acquisition fits ADI's push into AI while the core business makes strong cash flow. ADI completed its $1.5 billion Empower Semiconductor acquisition in July to strengthen power delivery for AI computing, while third-quarter revenue reached a record $4.02 billion, up 40% year over year, and trailing 12-month free cash flow reached $4.94 billion. The Alif deal therefore adds edge intelligence to an AI strategy while ADI retains substantial financial capacity to fund acquisitions and shareholder returns.
Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADI) must make enough returns to justify the $1.35 billion upfront price. The firm will pay $1.35 billion in cash at closing and could pay another $200 million in contingent consideration. It takes the potential consideration to $1.55 billion. ADI therefore needs Alif's technology, customer wins, and expanded addressable market to turn into real revenue and earnings growth rather than simply adding another promising technology platform to its portfolio.
#analog #NASDAQ #power #acquisition
1 month ago
On September 9, 2026, Independence Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:IRT) and Centerspace announced a definitive all-stock merger agreement. It creates a combined middle-market apartment REIT with a pro forma equity market capitalization of about $5.0 billion and a total enterprise value of approximately $8.1 billion, encompassing more than 44,000 units.
The combined company will retain the Independence Realty Trust name and NYSE ticker "IRT." IRT's Scott Schaeffer continues as Chairman and CEO. The management projects the deal will be roughly 5% accretive to 2027 Core FFO per share for shareholders of both companies.
The merger gives Independence Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:IRT) higher scale and significantly broader geographic diversification. The combined company will own 44,354 apartment units across 163 communities in 17 states, with 58% of pro forma NOI coming from Sunbelt markets, 27% from the Midwest, and 15% from the Mountain West. The overall footprint reduces reliance on any single regional apartment market while keeping substantial exposure to markets with strong population and employment growth.
IRT can apply its existing value-creation strategy across a much larger portfolio. Its value-add renovation program has delivered about a 16% historical return on investment. The firm expects to grow its Wi-Fi initiative and other technology and income-generating programs across Centerspace's properties. Management also expects approximately $24 million in annualized synergies. It supports roughly 5% accretion to 2027 Core FFO per share on a leverage-neutral basis.
The all-stock structure allows the companies to chase greater scale without adding acquisition debt. IRT and Centerspace expect the combined company to retain BBB/BBB investment-grade credit ratings and maintain a well-laddered debt maturity profile. Centerspace shareholders will receive IRT shares and own approximately 22% of the combined company. It gives them exposure to the larger platform. Management also expects the transaction to improve access to capital markets and reduce the combined firm's cost of capital over time.
#management
The combined company will retain the Independence Realty Trust name and NYSE ticker "IRT." IRT's Scott Schaeffer continues as Chairman and CEO. The management projects the deal will be roughly 5% accretive to 2027 Core FFO per share for shareholders of both companies.
The merger gives Independence Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:IRT) higher scale and significantly broader geographic diversification. The combined company will own 44,354 apartment units across 163 communities in 17 states, with 58% of pro forma NOI coming from Sunbelt markets, 27% from the Midwest, and 15% from the Mountain West. The overall footprint reduces reliance on any single regional apartment market while keeping substantial exposure to markets with strong population and employment growth.
IRT can apply its existing value-creation strategy across a much larger portfolio. Its value-add renovation program has delivered about a 16% historical return on investment. The firm expects to grow its Wi-Fi initiative and other technology and income-generating programs across Centerspace's properties. Management also expects approximately $24 million in annualized synergies. It supports roughly 5% accretion to 2027 Core FFO per share on a leverage-neutral basis.
The all-stock structure allows the companies to chase greater scale without adding acquisition debt. IRT and Centerspace expect the combined company to retain BBB/BBB investment-grade credit ratings and maintain a well-laddered debt maturity profile. Centerspace shareholders will receive IRT shares and own approximately 22% of the combined company. It gives them exposure to the larger platform. Management also expects the transaction to improve access to capital markets and reduce the combined firm's cost of capital over time.
#management
1 month ago
On September 4, 2026, the Wall Street Journal reported that Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX)' longtime chai latte devotees have turned against the company's reformulated recipe, introduced in March. It reduced sweetener and shifted from a pre-made concentrate to a new base with just two grams of sugar.
Customers have signed petitions, flooded Starbucks' corporate lines, and taken to Reddit and store review sites demanding the original formula back. Starbucks says the change gives customers more control over sweetness and has introduced new variations like Mango Cream Chai and Pumpkin Cream Chai.
Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX)' broader turnaround remains intact despite the backlash over its chai reformulation. Global comparable sales increased 7.9% in fiscal Q3, with comparable transactions rising 4.2%. The company raised its fiscal 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to $2.55-$2.65 from $2.25-$2.45. Stronger customer traffic and higher earnings give investors evidence that one unpopular menu change has not derailed the recovery.
The chai backlash appears concentrated among loyal customers of one product rather than across Starbucks' broader customer base. The business introduced the new chai formula as part of a personalization strategy. Customers can customize sweetness and other ingredients. If Starbucks keeps transaction growth across its wider menu, the business could improve its product economics without materially damaging overall customer demand.
Starbucks is improving profitability while it executes its turnaround. Non-GAAP operating margin expanded 430 basis points year over year to 14.4% in fiscal Q3, while North America revenue increased 7% to $7.4 billion. These results give investors evidence that the company can improve margins and sales even as it experiments with its menu and customer experience.
#customer
Customers have signed petitions, flooded Starbucks' corporate lines, and taken to Reddit and store review sites demanding the original formula back. Starbucks says the change gives customers more control over sweetness and has introduced new variations like Mango Cream Chai and Pumpkin Cream Chai.
Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX)' broader turnaround remains intact despite the backlash over its chai reformulation. Global comparable sales increased 7.9% in fiscal Q3, with comparable transactions rising 4.2%. The company raised its fiscal 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to $2.55-$2.65 from $2.25-$2.45. Stronger customer traffic and higher earnings give investors evidence that one unpopular menu change has not derailed the recovery.
The chai backlash appears concentrated among loyal customers of one product rather than across Starbucks' broader customer base. The business introduced the new chai formula as part of a personalization strategy. Customers can customize sweetness and other ingredients. If Starbucks keeps transaction growth across its wider menu, the business could improve its product economics without materially damaging overall customer demand.
Starbucks is improving profitability while it executes its turnaround. Non-GAAP operating margin expanded 430 basis points year over year to 14.4% in fiscal Q3, while North America revenue increased 7% to $7.4 billion. These results give investors evidence that the company can improve margins and sales even as it experiments with its menu and customer experience.
#customer
1 month ago
On September 9, 2026, Reuters reported that CEO Brian Niccol's first two years as Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX) CEO have succeeded in bringing customers back to the coffee chain. Comparable sales rose 7.9% in the fiscal third quarter for a fourth straight quarter of improvement, but his "Back to Starbucks" restructuring has raised costs and squeezed margins along the way. Global operating margin has fallen to 12.9% from 15.8% two years earlier. Niccol, who marks his second anniversary in the role, now faces pressure to convert the sales recovery into the sustainable profit growth investors are demanding.
Niccol's turnaround strategy has already restored customer momentum at Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX). The "Back to Starbucks" strategy reversed six consecutive quarters of declining comparable sales as the company focused on reducing wait times, simplifying menus, improving store ambiance, and increasing staffing. Starbucks has moved beyond the sales deterioration that preceded Niccol's tenure. It gives investors a stronger foundation for the next phase of the turnaround. If management can sustain traffic gains while improving productivity, the sales recovery could provide a path toward stronger earnings growth.
The China joint venture with Boyu Capital gives Starbucks a more capital-efficient way to participate in China's growth. Starbucks sold control of its China retail operations to Boyu. It retained a 40% stake and continues to own and license its brand and intellectual property. The structure reduces Starbucks' direct capital requirements while allowing it to retain economic exposure to the Chinese market. Reuters cited ****** ysts who said the arrangement leaves Starbucks well positioned to convert stronger organic sales growth into profit growth, which could support returns as the recovery progresses.
Starbucks now has an opportunity to turn its customer investments into margin expansion. The firm committed at least $500 million toward labor as part of the restructuring. Niccol prioritized staffing and store improvements to rebuild the customer experience. That spending helped help the sales recovery. But it also pushed global operating margins down to 12.9% from 15.8% over two years. With sales now improving, management can focus more heavily on productivity, cost control, and operating leverage. It creates an opportunity for stronger earnings if it can improve margins without damaging customer traffic.
Labor tensions could undermine Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX)' recovery and keep costs elevated. Starbucks has yet to reach a first contract with its U.S. barista union. The union called for a consumer boycott in August. Negotiations or labor actions could disrupt store operations, increase labor costs, and create reputational pressure just as Starbucks tries to improve profitability. Therefore, investors face a risk that labor issues could offset some of the productivity gains management needs to expand margins.
#
Niccol's turnaround strategy has already restored customer momentum at Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX). The "Back to Starbucks" strategy reversed six consecutive quarters of declining comparable sales as the company focused on reducing wait times, simplifying menus, improving store ambiance, and increasing staffing. Starbucks has moved beyond the sales deterioration that preceded Niccol's tenure. It gives investors a stronger foundation for the next phase of the turnaround. If management can sustain traffic gains while improving productivity, the sales recovery could provide a path toward stronger earnings growth.
The China joint venture with Boyu Capital gives Starbucks a more capital-efficient way to participate in China's growth. Starbucks sold control of its China retail operations to Boyu. It retained a 40% stake and continues to own and license its brand and intellectual property. The structure reduces Starbucks' direct capital requirements while allowing it to retain economic exposure to the Chinese market. Reuters cited ****** ysts who said the arrangement leaves Starbucks well positioned to convert stronger organic sales growth into profit growth, which could support returns as the recovery progresses.
Starbucks now has an opportunity to turn its customer investments into margin expansion. The firm committed at least $500 million toward labor as part of the restructuring. Niccol prioritized staffing and store improvements to rebuild the customer experience. That spending helped help the sales recovery. But it also pushed global operating margins down to 12.9% from 15.8% over two years. With sales now improving, management can focus more heavily on productivity, cost control, and operating leverage. It creates an opportunity for stronger earnings if it can improve margins without damaging customer traffic.
Labor tensions could undermine Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX)' recovery and keep costs elevated. Starbucks has yet to reach a first contract with its U.S. barista union. The union called for a consumer boycott in August. Negotiations or labor actions could disrupt store operations, increase labor costs, and create reputational pressure just as Starbucks tries to improve profitability. Therefore, investors face a risk that labor issues could offset some of the productivity gains management needs to expand margins.
#
1 month ago
California Resources Corporation (NYSE:CRC) announced on September 17 that it had agreed to sell its Uinta Basin **** ets, located mostly in Utah and Colorado, to an undisclosed buyer for $90 million in cash. The company had come to own the Uinta **** ets, which span about 100,000 net acres, after it acquired Berry Corp last year. However, CRC considered them non-core to its operations. The net proceeds from the sale will be used for shareholder returns and other corporate purposes.
Francisco Leon, President and CEO of California Resources Corporation, commented:
"Today's transaction strengthens our business. The monetization of our Uinta Basin **** ets sharpens our focus on California and captures additional value from the Berry merger. This transaction enhances our capital allocation flexibility, allowing us to invest in higher-return opportunities within the Golden State and supports our shareholder return strategy. The sale also helps offset the purchase price of our recent midstream transaction."
The transaction is expected to close by year-end, subject to the receipt of certain third-party consents and other customary conditions.
The sale will allow CRC to redeploy the $90 million toward **** ets that are central to its operating strategy while avoiding additional capital commitments to Uinta. The company already stated in its Q2 earnings call that Uinta has higher capital intensity, higher break-evens, lower crude quality, higher transportation and operating costs, and steeper declines. Therefore, the sale removes a portfolio distraction at a time when CRC is concentrating investment in California infrastructure and production.
#uinta #assets #transaction #capital
Francisco Leon, President and CEO of California Resources Corporation, commented:
"Today's transaction strengthens our business. The monetization of our Uinta Basin **** ets sharpens our focus on California and captures additional value from the Berry merger. This transaction enhances our capital allocation flexibility, allowing us to invest in higher-return opportunities within the Golden State and supports our shareholder return strategy. The sale also helps offset the purchase price of our recent midstream transaction."
The transaction is expected to close by year-end, subject to the receipt of certain third-party consents and other customary conditions.
The sale will allow CRC to redeploy the $90 million toward **** ets that are central to its operating strategy while avoiding additional capital commitments to Uinta. The company already stated in its Q2 earnings call that Uinta has higher capital intensity, higher break-evens, lower crude quality, higher transportation and operating costs, and steeper declines. Therefore, the sale removes a portfolio distraction at a time when CRC is concentrating investment in California infrastructure and production.
#uinta #assets #transaction #capital
1 month ago
NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE) announced on September 8 that it had secured a loan of up to $1.9 billion from the U.S. Department of Energy to support the restart of a shuttered nuclear power plant in Iowa. The Duane Arnold Energy Center ceased operations in 2020 after 45 years of service. The plant is now expected to resume operations in early 2029, pending regulatory approvals.
The federal funding is intended to help restore the facility and add reliable generation capacity as the US electricity demand soars to record levels amid the AI boom. To help meet the growing demand, President Trump is making efforts to accelerate the expansion of nuclear energy. He has signed an executive order to get 10 large conventional reactors under construction by 2030 and has also called for federal funding to support the restart of shuttered nuclear plants.
John Ketchum, Chairman, President, and CEO of NextEra Energy, commented:
"Restarting Duane Arnold is about delivering new power to meet new demand while generating billions of dollars in economic value for Iowans. Just as importantly, it shows how America can support rapid economic growth and rising electricity demand while helping keep power affordable for existing customers. By bringing new generation online to serve new demand, we can strengthen the grid, create hundreds of good-paying jobs and help ensure Iowa families and businesses are not asked to bear the costs of growth. We appreciate the Administration's leadership in advancing America's nuclear renaissance and share its commitment to an all-of-the-above energy strategy that expands supply, strengthens energy security and keeps America competitive."
Photo by Frédéric Paulussen on Unsplash
#duane #arnold
The federal funding is intended to help restore the facility and add reliable generation capacity as the US electricity demand soars to record levels amid the AI boom. To help meet the growing demand, President Trump is making efforts to accelerate the expansion of nuclear energy. He has signed an executive order to get 10 large conventional reactors under construction by 2030 and has also called for federal funding to support the restart of shuttered nuclear plants.
John Ketchum, Chairman, President, and CEO of NextEra Energy, commented:
"Restarting Duane Arnold is about delivering new power to meet new demand while generating billions of dollars in economic value for Iowans. Just as importantly, it shows how America can support rapid economic growth and rising electricity demand while helping keep power affordable for existing customers. By bringing new generation online to serve new demand, we can strengthen the grid, create hundreds of good-paying jobs and help ensure Iowa families and businesses are not asked to bear the costs of growth. We appreciate the Administration's leadership in advancing America's nuclear renaissance and share its commitment to an all-of-the-above energy strategy that expands supply, strengthens energy security and keeps America competitive."
Photo by Frédéric Paulussen on Unsplash
#duane #arnold
1 month ago
JPMorgan Chase (NYSE: JPM) is the largest bank in the U.S., by far. It's a financial giant with robust consumer and commercial segments, and it's reliable in driving growth under pressure. It also pays a growing dividend that yields 1.7% at the current price, and it's a fantastic value addition to any investor's diversified portfolio.
While it's likely to become the first bank stock with a $1 trillion valuation in the near future (it currently sports a $927.5 billion market capitalization), there are smaller digital banks that are likely to grow much faster in the next two years, and probably a lot longer. SoFi Technologies (NASDAQ: SOFI) and Nu Holdings (NYSE: NU) are two of them.
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 »
SoFi is a young digital bank that's growing at the rate of a tech start-up, which makes sense, since it's a combination of both -- a classic fintech company.
What started as a loan cooperative for college students has expanded into a comprehensive financial app for anyone seeking an easy-to-use digital platform. It's attracting new members at a fast pace, and its strategy of bringing customers into the ecosystem and getting them to adopt more products is working.
#sofi #bank
While it's likely to become the first bank stock with a $1 trillion valuation in the near future (it currently sports a $927.5 billion market capitalization), there are smaller digital banks that are likely to grow much faster in the next two years, and probably a lot longer. SoFi Technologies (NASDAQ: SOFI) and Nu Holdings (NYSE: NU) are two of them.
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 »
SoFi is a young digital bank that's growing at the rate of a tech start-up, which makes sense, since it's a combination of both -- a classic fintech company.
What started as a loan cooperative for college students has expanded into a comprehensive financial app for anyone seeking an easy-to-use digital platform. It's attracting new members at a fast pace, and its strategy of bringing customers into the ecosystem and getting them to adopt more products is working.
#sofi #bank
1 month ago
Enbridge Inc. (NYSE:ENB) has declined by around 17% since hitting its record high in May, likely as a result of rising bond yields, lack of visibility on the company's 5% growth guidance through the end of the decade, and the recently closed equity offering intended to fund the midstream operator's strategic acquisitions.
However, BMO Capital sees this pullback as an opportunity and on September 15, the firm upgraded ENB from 'Market Perform' to 'Outperform', while also slightly raising its price target from C$79 to C$79.50. The target boost implies an upside of 18% from the current levels.
The **** yst believes that Enbridge's scale, limited commodity exposure, and diversified **** ets are underappreciated. BMO also cited the company's improving visibility on growth, robust backlog, opportunistic acquisitions, and improved balance sheet as reasons behind the upgrade.
Enbridge's aggressive expansion strategy adds significantly to its bull case. The company announced on September 9 that it would acquire Tallgrass Energy's crude oil business for $2.55 billion in cash, expanding its US liquids pipeline network by buying a majority stake in the Pony Express Pipeline and other **** ets. The midstream operator expects the acquisition to be accretive to distributable cash flow per share in the first full year of ownership.
Similarly, Enbridge announced last month that it had agreed to acquire Salt Creek Midstream's crude oil gathering business for $600 million in cash, further bolstering its presence in the prolific Permian Basin. The acquired **** ets have an average remaining contract life of about 10 years, providing stable long-term cash flows.
#visibility #target
However, BMO Capital sees this pullback as an opportunity and on September 15, the firm upgraded ENB from 'Market Perform' to 'Outperform', while also slightly raising its price target from C$79 to C$79.50. The target boost implies an upside of 18% from the current levels.
The **** yst believes that Enbridge's scale, limited commodity exposure, and diversified **** ets are underappreciated. BMO also cited the company's improving visibility on growth, robust backlog, opportunistic acquisitions, and improved balance sheet as reasons behind the upgrade.
Enbridge's aggressive expansion strategy adds significantly to its bull case. The company announced on September 9 that it would acquire Tallgrass Energy's crude oil business for $2.55 billion in cash, expanding its US liquids pipeline network by buying a majority stake in the Pony Express Pipeline and other **** ets. The midstream operator expects the acquisition to be accretive to distributable cash flow per share in the first full year of ownership.
Similarly, Enbridge announced last month that it had agreed to acquire Salt Creek Midstream's crude oil gathering business for $600 million in cash, further bolstering its presence in the prolific Permian Basin. The acquired **** ets have an average remaining contract life of about 10 years, providing stable long-term cash flows.
#visibility #target
1 month ago
Sept 19, 2026, 4:00 am EDT
Many Americans are missing out on a powerful retirement savings strategy.
Copyright ©2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8
The controversial app that created an internet sensation in January is back with a new name, a venture funding, and a giant new market.
#americans #company #january #powerful
Many Americans are missing out on a powerful retirement savings strategy.
Copyright ©2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8
The controversial app that created an internet sensation in January is back with a new name, a venture funding, and a giant new market.
#americans #company #january #powerful
1 month ago
Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) investors are having a rough year, with the shares down more than 25%. Now Wall Street is divided over the company's outlook.
Morgan Stanley raised its price target on Accenture to $175 from $130 on September 14. Accenture shares soared more than 6% in afternoon trading following the price target increase, even though the firm reiterated its Equal weight rating on the stock.
Meanwhile, UBS recently maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a price target of $275. The bank pointed to confidence in the company's positioning around AI and, in separate notes, its acquisition strategy. However, Wells Fargo downgraded Accenture to Equal Weight. According to Wells Fargo, macroeconomic pressures could weigh on fiscal 2027 growth expectations.
The question is whether Accenture's expanding AI capabilities and acquisitions can translate into long-term growth.
Accenture's AI fortunes are tied to enterprise deployment of the technology. The company has formed a joint business group with Google Cloud to deploy AI engineers across enterprise clients. That arrangement gives Accenture another channel through which AI adoption can create demand for consulting, implementation, and integration services.
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Morgan Stanley raised its price target on Accenture to $175 from $130 on September 14. Accenture shares soared more than 6% in afternoon trading following the price target increase, even though the firm reiterated its Equal weight rating on the stock.
Meanwhile, UBS recently maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a price target of $275. The bank pointed to confidence in the company's positioning around AI and, in separate notes, its acquisition strategy. However, Wells Fargo downgraded Accenture to Equal Weight. According to Wells Fargo, macroeconomic pressures could weigh on fiscal 2027 growth expectations.
The question is whether Accenture's expanding AI capabilities and acquisitions can translate into long-term growth.
Accenture's AI fortunes are tied to enterprise deployment of the technology. The company has formed a joint business group with Google Cloud to deploy AI engineers across enterprise clients. That arrangement gives Accenture another channel through which AI adoption can create demand for consulting, implementation, and integration services.
#fargo
