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US Economic Volatility and Tariff Impacts

Stock market turbulence, corporate layoffs, inflation pressure, and recession fears driven by tariff uncertainty and oil market disruption

Refining constraints widen gap between crude oil and U.S. gasoline prices

Illustration accompanying article: Refining constraints widen gap between crude oil and U.S. gasoline prices
  • U.S. gasoline prices remain 32% above pre-war levels at $3.94 a gallon, while crude oil is only 18% higher, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis citing data from OPIS.
  • Gasoline crack spreads — the difference between gasoline and crude prices — are averaging 90 cents a gallon in July, the highest in four years, based on Novi Labs data.
  • China has cut its crude imports by nearly half and reduced refined fuel exports; IEA emergency releases have been mostly crude rather than gasoline and diesel.
  • Global refining capacity has been severely curtailed by conflict in the Middle East and Russia, with Russian diesel exports banned and U.S. biofuel blending mandates adding 14 cents a gallon to pump prices.
 2026-07-17 · 3 MIN READ

June retail sales rise 0.2% after revised May gain of 1%

Illustration accompanying article: June retail sales rise 0.2% after revised May gain of 1%
  • The Commerce Department reported U.S. retail sales rose 0.2% in June, following a revised 1% gain in May.
  • Sales excluding gas stations increased 0.7%, with online retailers posting a 1.9% rise driven by Amazon’s Prime Day event held June 23–26.
  • Clothing and accessories stores saw a 0.3% decline, while restaurant spending edged up 0.1%.
  • Gas prices fell to $3.94 per gallon from $4.04 a month earlier, according to AAA.
 2026-07-16 · 3 MIN READ
Illustration accompanying article: US stocks rise as June inflation slows to 3.5%, easing pressure for rate hikes

Dollar Hits One-Year High as Markets Bet on Fed Rate Rise

2026-06-19

The U.S. dollar rose to a one-year high against a basket of currencies on Friday, lifted by growing expectations that the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates in the coming months after its latest policy meeting signaled a shift by key officials.

UK Inflation Holds Steady at 2.8% in May, Below Forecasts

2026-06-17

U.K. annual inflation remained at 2.8% in May, unchanged from April and below the 3.0% consensus forecast, the Office for National Statistics reported Wednesday. The flat reading strengthens expectations that the Bank of England will hold its key rate at 3.75% when it concludes its monetary policy meeting Thursday.

Treasury yields ease as markets await Iran deal details, Fed meeting

2026-06-16

Treasury yields edged lower Tuesday as investors weighed the implications of last week's U.S.-Iran interim peace deal and awaited the start of the Federal Reserve's first two-day policy meeting under Chairman Kevin Warsh, with the central bank expected to hold interest rates steady.

Import-price inflation held firm at 1.9% in May

2026-06-16

U.S. import prices rose 1.9% in May, a slower pace than April's 2% gain but well above economist forecasts, the Labor Department reported Tuesday. Over the past 12 months, import costs climbed 6.7%, the largest annual increase since August 2022, as elevated fuel costs continued to filter through the supply chain.

Readers Share Market-Peak Signs Amid Stocks Rally on Iran Deal

2026-06-15

U.S. stocks were set to rally Monday after the U.S. and Iran reached a tentative deal to end hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, sending oil prices tumbling to their lowest since early March. In the midst of the euphoria, one Wall Street Journal newsletter asked readers for their own 'shoeshine boy' moments—everyday encounters that convinced them a market peak was near.

Gold and Mining Stocks Rally After U.S.-Iran Interim Peace Deal

2026-06-15

Gold futures rose 2.3% to $4,337.80 a troy ounce and London mining stocks climbed Monday after the U.S. and Iran outlined an interim peace deal that eased fears of an energy-driven inflation shock and raised expectations that oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz would resume.

Eurozone industrial output edges up 0.1% in April as Iran war disrupts supply chains

2026-06-15

Eurozone industrial output rose 0.1% in April from the prior month, the European Union’s statistics agency Eurostat said Monday, as factories raced to fill orders from customers seeking to stockpile goods ahead of supply disruptions from the Middle East conflict. The modest gain, which followed an upwardly revised 0.4% increase in March, fell short of the 0.2% expected by economists polled by The Wall Street Journal.

Bank of England expected to hold key rate at 3.75% as U.K. economy weakens

2026-06-15

The Bank of England is expected to leave its key interest rate unchanged at 3.75% when its Monetary Policy Committee concludes its meeting Thursday, a decision that would align it with the Federal Reserve but mark a divergence from the European Central Bank, which raised its benchmark rate last week. However, the BOE is expected to signal that it stands ready to raise borrowing costs if the Middle East conflict persists and wage growth accelerates.

Index providers fast-track SpaceX into benchmarks, raising bubble worries for passive investors

2026-06-14

Index providers including Nasdaq and FTSE Russell are speeding up the inclusion of SpaceX and other megacap initial public offerings, adding the rocket company to major benchmarks as soon as five trading days after its debut rather than waiting the traditional "seasoning period" of up to a year. The accelerated schedule has drawn concern from passive investors, who worry they are being exposed to an untested company's volatile stock, and from economist Owen Lamont, who warns that a wave of such IPOs could be a "third horseman of the bubble apocalypse."

US economy resilient through trade turmoil and energy shocks, economists say

2026-06-14

The U.S. economy has continued to grow at an annualised rate of about 2% through a succession of shocks — including President Donald Trump's tariffs, mass deportations, and conflict in the Middle East — defying predictions of a downturn, economists told BBC News. New data this week showed consumer prices rising 4.2% in May from a year earlier, the fastest pace in three years, while employers added 172,000 jobs.

Asian currencies sink as energy costs, U.S. rates, AI paradox squeeze region

2026-06-14

Asian currencies are under broad selling pressure as a combination of higher energy costs from the Strait of Hormuz closure, rising U.S. interest rates, and an unusual capital outflow during an export boom drives losses from the yen to the rupiah. Tokyo has spent over $70 billion defending the yen this year, Indonesia has held an emergency rate meeting, and South Korea is stepping up forex scrutiny after the won fell more than 5% against the dollar.

U.S. credit card delinquency nears 2008 peak amid lighter debt burden

2026-06-13

The share of credit-card balances that are seriously delinquent has climbed to near the level seen after the 2008 global financial crisis, but the overall picture of American consumer debt is more nuanced than that headline figure suggests, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis of Federal Reserve data.

US consumer sentiment improves in June as gas prices ease

2026-06-12

Consumer sentiment rose four points from mid-May levels as average gasoline prices dropped to $4.10 a gallon, though sentiment remains at historically low levels amid elevated inflation and the ongoing conflict in Iran, according to new survey data from the University of Michigan.

SpaceX Shares Surge 19% in Record IPO; Stocks Climb

2026-06-12

SpaceX shares jumped nearly 19% in the company's first day of trading, making it the largest-ever initial public offering and pushing Elon Musk past the trillion-dollar mark. The debut propelled broader market indexes higher, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq Composite all posting gains.

Gilded-Age stock revolution paved way for trillionaires, historian argues

2026-06-12

A new analysis by historian T.J. Stiles, published in The Wall Street Journal, argues that the modern stock market's capacity to create extraordinarily concentrated wealth — culminating in Elon Musk becoming the world's first trillionaire — is rooted in a fundamental shift in how Americans understood the value of a share, a change that unfolded in the Gilded Age.

Global air travel growth to slow to 2.1% in 2026 as Middle East war lifts fuel costs

2026-06-12

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts global air passenger traffic to grow just 2.1% this year, a sharp slowdown from recent years, as the Middle East war pushes up energy prices. The forecast was cited in a Market Talk roundup published Friday by The Wall Street Journal covering the auto and transport sectors.

ECB rate hike supports European banks; geopolitical risks persist

2026-06-12

The European Central Bank's first interest-rate increase in nearly three years will support European bank earnings, analysts at Keefe, Bruyette & Woods said Friday, even as the Middle East conflict continues to fuel market volatility and uncertainty across global markets.

Leveraged ETF assets double as number of funds exceeds S&P 500 stocks

2026-06-12

Assets in leveraged exchange-traded funds have doubled over the past two months and now number more than 500 individual funds in the U.S. alone, according to Goldman Sachs. The explosive growth has come as retail investors pile into single-stock leveraged funds, including one tied to SpaceX after its record $75 billion initial public offering, despite longstanding warnings that the products can quickly erode value.

Seoul stocks spike over 4% on hopes for end to US-Iran war

2026-06-12

South Korean stocks surged more than 4 percent on Friday, June 12, as investors bet on a swift end to the monthslong US-Iran war after President Donald Trump said he had reached a 'great settlement' and that a signing could come as early as this weekend. The KOSPI closed at 8,123.62, up 4.63 percent, after briefly topping 8,400.

Lower-income households absorb higher effective inflation as CPI rises 4.2% in May

2026-06-11T00:00:00Z

WASHINGTON — Consumer prices rose 0.5 percent in May on a seasonally adjusted basis, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday, pushing the year-over-year rate to 4.2 percent, the highest since April 2023. But the headline figure masks a widening burden on lower-income households, whose budgets are disproportionately devoted to housing and food — categories where price increases have outstripped the overall index. Real average hourly earnings were little changed for the month, the BLS said in a separate release, leaving workers’ purchasing power under pressure even as energy costs tied to the conflict with Iran accounted for much of the monthly increase. Shelter costs, the largest component of CPI, continued to climb, driven by owners’ equivalent rent, a measure that lags current market rents by a year or more. The full bite of recent rent inflation has yet to work its way into the official figures, and when it does, it will strike lower-income families hardest.

Trump’s decision to call off Iran strike lifts Wall Street

2026-06-11

President Trump’s decision to cancel a planned strike on Iran and move forward with a final peace plan sent U.S. stocks sharply higher Thursday, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq each posting gains of more than 2% as oil prices and bond yields declined.

Gold outlook supported by hedge demand, State Street says

2026-06-11

State Street Investment Management strategists said Thursday that demand for monetary hedges and physical gold are likely factors supporting the outlook for bullion, even as spot prices face near-term pressure from oil-driven volatility.

US inflation surges to 4.2% in May, a three-year high

2026-06-10

U.S. consumer inflation hit 4.2% in May, the highest annual rate in three years, driven by rising energy costs tied to the war in Iran, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data released Wednesday. The increase marks the third consecutive monthly rise since the conflict began in February, with households facing higher fuel, food, and clothing prices.

Inflation Eats Into Stock Market Gains as Investors Rotate to Defensive Names

2026-06-10

Persistent inflation is eroding the real returns of U.S. stocks even as nominal indices hover near records, driving investors toward defensive sectors and sparking comparisons to past prolonged bear markets. The S&P 500 closed at 7,386.65 on Tuesday, but analysts warn that a five-year inflation-adjusted gain of roughly 50% masks a larger nominal advance of 72%.

Novelis to restart aluminum plant after fires disrupted auto supply

2026-06-10

Novelis will restart production Wednesday at its aluminum-rolling plant in Oswego, New York, nine months after a fire shut the facility and disrupted automotive supply chains, the company said. The plant is the largest U.S. supplier of aluminum sheet for automakers including Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, and its prolonged outage cost customers billions of dollars.

America's four-year trucking slump ends as rates surge

2026-06-10

Trucking executives are declaring an end to one of the longest freight downturns in carriers' memory, with rates rising to sustainable levels after nearly four years of slumping earnings. The recovery is supply-driven, as Trump administration crackdowns on immigrant drivers pushed many carriers out of the market, while increased factory activity and data center construction offset flat consumer demand.

Tech stocks waver ahead of SpaceX's IPO; chip shares slide

2026-06-09

U.S. stocks turned in a mixed performance Monday, with technology shares sliding as investors repositioned before a wave of high-profile initial public offerings expected this week, including SpaceX and OpenAI. The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged higher to 50,786.01, while the Nasdaq Composite fell 1% to 25,929.66, and the S&P 500 slipped 0.26% to 7,405.73, according to FRED data.

Musk's impending trillionaire status could fuel oligarchy, columnist warns

2026-06-09

Guardian columnist Arwa Mahdawi wrote June 9 that Elon Musk's imminent rise to the world's first trillionaire status, propelled by the SpaceX initial public offering, would enable a new level of impunity and hasten a shift toward full-blown oligarchy. Mahdawi said Musk's roughly $290 million in political donations during the 2024 election cycle and his subsequent influence over federal agencies as a "shadow president" under Donald Trump illustrate the dangers of concentrated wealth.

Seoul shares jump over 8% on AI rebound, Iran-Israel ceasefire

2026-06-09

South Korean stocks soared more than 8 percent Tuesday in the largest single-day gain ever for the benchmark KOSPI index, rebounding from Monday's steep decline as renewed confidence in artificial intelligence stocks and a ceasefire between Israel and Iran drew buyers back into the market.

US Futures Rise on Tech Rally, Oil Falls on Mideast Hopes

2026-06-09

U.S. stock futures rose Tuesday as a technology-sector recovery continued and oil prices declined after Israel and Iran signaled de-escalation from Sunday's strikes, according to the Wall Street Journal. President Donald Trump said a peace deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz was close.

Porsche, Lufthansa, Uber-Nvidia: Analysts Assess Auto and Transport Sector

2026-06-09

Wall Street analysts on Tuesday issued mixed assessments across the auto and transport sector, upgrading Porsche stock on turnaround prospects, estimating Lufthansa's labor strike costs, and praising Uber's partnership with Nvidia as a step toward commercializing autonomous vehicles. The Dow Jones Industrial Average stood at 50,786.01.

Casey's profit surges 65% on pizza sales, beats analyst expectations

2026-06-09

Casey's General Stores posted a fiscal fourth-quarter profit of $162.7 million, more than 65% above the year-ago period, as strong demand for whole pizzas and other prepared foods drove inside-store sales growth and the convenience store chain exceeded analyst expectations.

Chip Stocks Lead Wall Street Rebound After Friday's Selloff

2026-06-08

Major U.S. stock indexes mostly rose Monday as semiconductor stocks rebounded sharply, with Intel shares surging 11% on reports that Google and Nvidia are considering Intel as a backup chip-making option. The S&P 500 rose 0.3% to close at 7,383.74, and the Nasdaq climbed 0.9% to 25,709.43, according to market data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell about 0.2%, losing 81 points to close at 50,866.78.

U.S. stocks rebound as oil surge eases on Iran-Israel tensions

2026-06-08

U.S. stocks rebounded Monday, recovering from Friday’s selloff, as an initial surge in oil prices on renewed Iran-Israel fighting eased after Iran said it had ended its strikes against Israel. The Nasdaq composite rose more than 1% in early trading, the S&P 500 gained about 0.5%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average was roughly flat.

Oil, AI Demand, and Geopolitics Shape Analyst Views on Transport Sector

2026-06-08

Analysts offered mixed assessments of the auto and transport sector on Monday, with geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, surging demand related to artificial-intelligence data centers, and shifting airline capacity shaping the outlook, according to research notes reported by The Wall Street Journal.

Tech Wipeout, Oil Spike Raise ‘Shoeshine Boy’ Question on Market Peak

2026-06-08

The Wall Street Journal’s Markets A.M. newsletter on Monday raised the classic question of whether the market has peaked, after a tech stock wipeout on Friday and a spike in oil prices following renewed Middle East conflict. The newsletter invoked the famous Joe Kennedy anecdote about a shoeshine boy offering stock tips as a signal to sell.

South Korean stocks crash 8% on AI profit fears, Fed rate concerns

2026-06-08

South Korea's benchmark KOSPI index plunged 8.3% on Monday as investors dumped semiconductor shares amid renewed doubts about artificial intelligence profitability and concerns that the U.S. Federal Reserve could raise interest rates. The Korea Exchange activated circuit breakers within minutes of the opening bell.

German Factory Orders Fell Back in April

2026-06-08

German factory orders dropped 3.8% in April from the prior month, the Federal Statistical Office reported Monday, reversing some of the gains recorded in March when manufacturers rushed to rebuild inventories after the outbreak of the Iran war. The decline was steeper than economists had forecast.

Asian stocks tumble, oil jumps as Middle East conflict reignites

2026-06-08

Stock markets across Asia-Pacific fell sharply on Monday, with South Korea's KOSPI index sliding nearly 9% before trading was briefly halted, as investors reacted to a confluence of risks including a flare-up in Middle East hostilities, expectations of higher U.S. interest rates, and mounting doubts about the artificial-intelligence boom.

Intesa Sanpaolo, Banco BPM vie for Monte dei Paschi in Italian banking battle

2026-06-08

Intesa Sanpaolo launched a takeover offer for Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena on Monday, setting up a bidding war with Banco BPM, which had proposed a merger of equals. Shares of Monte dei Paschi jumped 12% on the news, while Intesa fell 3.7% and BPM rose 1%, as analysts assessed the competing deal structures.

For a Select Few, IPOs Are Winners. Good Luck to Everyone Else.

2026-06-08

Initial public offerings deliver average first-day gains of about 19% for investors who buy at the offering price, but historical data shows that buying an IPO at the end of its first trading day and holding it for three years underperforms the broader market by 21% on average, according to an analysis by The Wall Street Journal citing University of Florida finance professor Jay Ritter.

South Korean won slides to 17-year low as foreign selling accelerates

2026-06-07

The South Korean won weakened to its lowest level since March 2009, breaching 1,560 won per dollar in overnight trading, as prolonged foreign selling of domestic stocks, a stronger-than-expected U.S. labor market, and the ongoing Middle East war combined to pressure the currency.

U.S. consumers reassess spending as Iran war drives up fuel costs

2026-06-07

Americans have not stopped spending since the Iran war drove gasoline prices higher, but many are subtly altering their buying routines — shopping less at clothing and furniture stores, changing how they fill up at the pump — and lower-income households are beginning to cut back, according to company executives and retail analysts cited by the Associated Press.

Americans Keep Cars Longer, Reshaping Auto Industry as Average Age Hits 13 Years

2026-06-06

The average vehicle on U.S. roads is about 13 years old, a historic high, as drivers hold onto cars longer due to high prices, elevated interest rates and improved vehicle durability. The shift is reshaping the economics of the auto industry, pushing automakers and dealers to compete for repair and maintenance business.

U.S. adds 172,000 jobs in May; broader underemployment holds at 8.2%

2026-06-05T00:00:00Z

The U.S. economy added 172,000 jobs in May, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Friday, as hiring in leisure and hospitality surged to more than four times the sector’s recent average. The headline unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.3 percent for the third consecutive month, but the broader U-6 measure — which includes discouraged workers and those working part‑time involuntarily — held at 8.2 percent, underscoring a labor market in which millions of workers remain underutilized even as payrolls expand.

U.S. adds 172,000 jobs in May; unemployment holds at 4.3%

2026-06-05

U.S. employers added 172,000 jobs in May, roughly double what forecasters had expected, and the unemployment rate held at 4.3%, the Labor Department reported Friday. The data offers a fresh signal of labor-market resilience even as Americans report rising frustration over surging gasoline prices tied to U.S. and Israeli military operations against Iran.

Small-cap stocks beat market giants this year, but analysts urge caution

2026-06-05

The Russell Microcap index has surged 21% year-to-date, nearly doubling the S&P 500's gain and far outpacing the 6% rise in the largest mega-cap stocks, according to analysis from The Wall Street Journal. The divergence, driven by speculation, oil-price jitters, and index-rebalancing quirks, has drawn warnings that the outperformance may not be sustainable.

S&P 500 declines fast-track for SpaceX IPO, dimming forced-buying boost

2026-06-05

SpaceX is set to go public with a $1.75 trillion valuation, but the rocket and satellite company lost a crucial advantage on Thursday when S&P Dow Jones Indices said it would not fast-track the shares into the S&P 500 index. Without immediate inclusion in the benchmark, the wave of forced buying from passive funds that typically cushions large IPOs may be delayed, leaving near-term price support uncertain.

Weight-loss drugs drive surge in clothing returns as shoppers size down

2026-06-05

U.S. retailers are reporting a sharp increase in apparel returns tied to the rising use of GLP-1 weight-loss medications, according to a review of 38 retailers by returns management firm Narvar. The share of apparel exchanges where shoppers sized down reached 14.6% in 2025, rising for three consecutive years. Some retailers have doubled restocking fees and adjusted inventory for smaller sizes to offset the costs.

FedEx Freight spinoff poised to benefit as ISM manufacturing expands

2026-06-05

Stifel analysts initiated coverage of FedEx Freight, the newly independent less-than-truckload carrier spun off from FedEx on June 1, citing a recovery in the U.S. industrial economy that could boost freight demand. The analysts said the monthly ISM Manufacturing PMI has shown positive growth through the first four months of 2026, suggesting the industrial sector is emerging from a prolonged downturn.

Ferrari Luce EV gets poor dealer reception; NIO growth outlook intact

2026-06-04

Berenberg analysts reported Wednesday that Ferrari dealers across regions have given poor reviews to the styling and pricing of the Italian automaker's new Luce electric vehicle, though early order intake is expected to meet market volume expectations. Separately, Macquarie analysts said NIO is likely to sustain its profit and growth momentum this year due to a robust product cycle and cost improvements.

'Doomspending' rises among young Americans as economic anxiety grows

2026-06-04

A growing number of young Americans are spending money frivolously with little regard for future financial consequences, a trend dubbed 'doomspending' that reflects deepening anxiety about the economy and a loss of faith in traditional savings pathways, according to a recent survey and commentary by trend forecasters.

Consumer rage rises as Americans face corporate frustrations, survey finds

2026-06-04

Nearly 80% of Americans reported a problem with a service or product in 2025, and about two-thirds of those experienced 'rage' about it, according to the National Consumer Rage survey published Thursday by Customer Care Measurement & Consulting and Arizona State University's WP Carey School of Business.

Eurozone retail sales fell 0.4% in April as Iran war energy costs bite

2026-06-04

Eurozone retail sales dropped more than expected in April, falling 0.4% from March as rising energy prices tied to the Iran war squeezed household spending, data from the European Union’s statistics agency showed Thursday. The decline was driven by the sharpest fall in automotive-fuel sales since August 2023 and adds to concerns that the eurozone economy could contract in the second quarter.

Gold Rises Amid Mild Dollar Weakness

2026-06-04

Gold edged higher in early trading Thursday as the U.S. dollar softened, lowering the price of the precious metal for overseas investors. Spot gold rose 0.4% to $4,451.07 an ounce, with traders eyeing upcoming U.S. labor data and Middle East developments for monetary policy clues.

Consumer frustration callout seeks stories from Americans

2026-06-04

The Guardian, a British national daily, launched a callout Thursday asking Americans to share their experiences with difficult consumer situations, from faulty products and refund issues to unresponsive customer service.

Low-Beta Stocks May Be Poised for a Comeback, Researcher Says

2026-06-03

The longest winning streak in a year has pushed the S&P 500 above 7,600, but financial researchers say the party for volatile, high-flying stocks may be nearing an end. Decades of research into the “Low Beta Anomaly” suggest that boring, low-volatility stocks—long ignored by momentum-chasing investors—are historically due for a sharp reversal that could beat the market on a risk-adjusted basis.

Stellantis targets 2028 profit rebound as analysts see skepticism

2026-06-03

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.2% to 51,307.79 on Wednesday as Stellantis unveiled ambitious financial targets through 2030 that analysts said could face skepticism from investors given the softer industry growth environment. Separate Market Talks reports covered a potential Ferrari manual gearbox model launch, weak second-quarter Renault registrations in France, and Castlelake's potential strategy to break up easyJet if it pursues a takeover.

ADP: U.S. private payrolls add 122,000 in May, beating forecasts

2026-06-03

U.S. private employers added 122,000 workers in May, ADP reported Wednesday, topping consensus forecasts and marking the strongest month of hiring since President Donald Trump returned to office. The payroll processing firm's monthly employment report showed gains in most sectors, led by education and health services.

Australian dollar at risk of fall on first-quarter GDP, CBA says

2026-06-03

Commonwealth Bank of Australia warned the Australian dollar could decline against the U.S. dollar following the release of first-quarter GDP data Tuesday, as the bank forecasts flat economic growth that may reduce the likelihood of further Reserve Bank of Australia interest rate hikes.

S&P 500 notches ninth straight gain, longest streak in a year

2026-06-02

The S&P 500 rose 0.1% to a record close Tuesday, extending its winning streak to nine consecutive sessions — the longest such run in over a year. The rally, driven by surging demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure, lifted all three major U.S. indexes to fresh records for the fifth straight trading day.

Insurers brace for wave of lawsuits and rate hikes in private-credit market

2026-06-02

Insurers that provide coverage to executives and boards of private-credit firms are bracing for a wave of lawsuits and regulatory actions, according to insurance executives and industry data cited by the Wall Street Journal. Some insurers have begun raising premiums, with several executives estimating that double-digit increases from a year ago could arrive soon, and coverage terms are tightening for renewals and new policies.

Victoria's Secret posts Q1 profit, raises outlook on bra sales

2026-06-02

Victoria's Secret swung to a $47.7 million first-quarter profit and raised its full-year sales forecast after a 15% sales gain driven by bras, the company said Tuesday. The retailer earned 56 cents a diluted share, beating Wall Street estimates, compared with a loss of $1.7 million, or two cents a share, a year earlier.

Dollar General profit jumps 13% as low-cost shoppers fuel sales beat

2026-06-02

Dollar General on Tuesday reported a $444.1 million profit for its fiscal first quarter, up 13% from a year ago, as the discount retailer opened new stores and continued drawing budget-conscious consumers. Earnings of $2 per share topped the $1.89 analysts had expected, and the company raised its full-year profit forecast.

U.S. job openings hit two-year high at 7.6 million in April

2026-06-02

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Tuesday that U.S. job openings rose to 7.6 million in April, the highest level in nearly two years, as the labor market showed resilience amid the ongoing U.S.-Israel-Iran war. The figure beat economists' expectations by nearly 800,000 and marked a sharp reversal from the gradual softening many forecasters had projected.

Shake Shack cuts Q2 guidance, shares fall 9% amid uncertainty and competition

2026-06-02

Shake Shack scaled back its second-quarter financial guidance on Tuesday, projecting revenue of $415 million to $420 million and same-store sales growth of 2.5% to 3%, as Chief Executive Rob Lynch cited macroeconomic uncertainty and a competitive landscape weighing on the burger chain's outlook.

BAT cuts cigarette outlook, boosts vape revenue forecast

2026-06-02

British American Tobacco on Tuesday reduced its forecast for global cigarette industry sales volumes this year, projecting a steeper decline of about 2.5%, but raised its growth expectations for new categories such as vapes and nicotine pouches as the company accelerates its shift toward non-combustible products.

UAW workers strike at American Axle plant, halting key GM truck parts

2026-06-01

Nearly 1,000 United Auto Workers members went on strike at an American Axle plant in Three Rivers, Michigan, early Monday, halting production of axles used in General Motors' heavy-duty and midsize pickup trucks. Workers are at an impasse with the company over a new labor contract, saying their pay has not recovered from deep wage cuts they accepted in 2008 to keep the plant open.

Chip stocks power S&P 500 through historic two-month rally

2026-06-01

Chip stocks powered the S&P 500 up 16% across April and May, marking the index's strongest two-month surge matched only four times since 1950 and pushing Wall Street benchmarks to a series of records as artificial-intelligence spending accelerates.

NY Fed researchers link remote work expansion to rising youth unemployment

2026-06-01

Federal Reserve Bank of New York researchers said Monday that the pandemic-era shift toward remote work is connected to an increase in unemployment among younger workers, estimating that approximately 64% of the jobless rate rise among recent college graduates ties directly to the distributed work model.

Greenblatt's 'Magic Formula' for stock picking has lost its edge since 2016

2026-06-01

Joel Greenblatt's 'Magic Formula,' a simplified stock-picking strategy that once backtested at 31% annualized returns, has underperformed the S&P 500 on a rolling five-year basis since 2016, according to a Stockholm University researcher — a decline the researcher attributes to both strategy crowding and a broader market rotation away from value investing.

Castlelake considers £3bn easyJet takeover; airline calls bid opportunistic

2026-06-01

US private credit firm Castlelake is weighing a takeover bid for easyJet that would value the European budget airline at about £3bn, the companies said Monday. easyJet rejected the overture as "highly opportunistic," saying its share price was temporarily depressed by Middle East instability and rising jet fuel costs.

Nearly 1,000 UAW workers strike at GM truck supplier American Axle

2026-06-01

Nearly 1,000 United Auto Workers walked off the job Monday at American Axle's plant in Three Rivers, Michigan, halting production of axles that supply General Motors' full-size and midsize pickup trucks. The strike, which UAW President Shawn Fain announced in a Sunday livestream, centers on workers' demands for higher pay and limits on forced weekend overtime at a plant where wages have not recovered from deep cuts made 18 years ago.

UK care workers say mileage payments fail to cover soaring fuel costs

2026-06-01

Home care workers across the United Kingdom are absorbing hundreds of pounds in monthly fuel costs that their employers' mileage rates do not fully cover, as petrol and diesel prices continue to rise. A South Yorkshire-based carer said she spends up to £400 per month on fuel to visit elderly clients, while care industry leaders said most employers cannot afford to match the government's recommended mileage rates because councils and the NHS do not pay enough for homecare services.

Tomato prices rise 40% over last year, topping grocery inflation list

2026-05-29

Tomato prices have increased roughly 40% over the past year according to the latest Consumer Price Index, the steepest jump of any food product tracked, as a staple of American kitchens becomes the newest flashpoint in a long-running affordability squeeze felt across grocery aisles from coffee to beef.

US stocks add to records as Dell soars and oil eases; S&P 500 notches 9th straight winning week

2026-05-29

Wall Street pushed further into record territory on Friday, as the S&P 500 rose 0.2% for its seventh straight gain and the benchmark index closed out its ninth consecutive winning week — the longest such streak since 2023. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.7% and the Nasdaq composite gained 0.2%, with all three major indexes setting all-time highs for the fourth day in a row.

Key inflation gauge accelerates to 3.8% in April, highest in three years

2026-05-28

A measure of inflation closely watched by the Federal Reserve accelerated to 3.8% in April from a year earlier, the Commerce Department reported Thursday, the highest level since May 2023 and a sign that price pressures are intensifying under the weight of energy costs and tariffs.

US stocks end 8th straight winning week as households grow more discouraged

2026-05-23

Wall Street finished another week of gains Friday as the S&P 500 added 0.4% for its eighth straight winning week, while a University of Michigan survey showed consumer sentiment falling to a record low. Energy prices driven by the war with Iran and rising inflation expectations weighed on households, even as major companies reported results that beat analysts.

Rising bond yields could lift mortgages and strain the economy

2026-05-23

Treasury bond yields rose sharply this week, with 30-year rates topping 5%, and economists say the move reflects persistent inflation, larger government deficits and a political shift toward populism that limits deficit reduction. NPR’s Scott Simon spoke with Wall Street Journal economics commentator Greg Ip about what higher long-term rates could mean for consumers, retirement savings and government budgets.

Memorial Day: High fuel prices reshape summer vacation plans for Americans

2026-05-23

Higher gasoline and airfare costs are reshaping how many Americans approach the Memorial Day-to-summer travel stretch, with some travelers scaling back and shifting to shorter trips or cheaper lodging. The changes come as fuel prices rise amid the Iran war and broader inflation pressures, industry and government data show.

Newsom urges Californians to skip Chevron over high gas prices

2026-05-23

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office urged drivers to avoid Chevron stations over Memorial Day weekend, arguing the oil company charges more than unbranded alternatives. In posts shared this week, Newsom’s staff said Chevron averaged more than 60 to 80 cents per gallon above unbranded options, citing an analysis by a group within the state’s energy commission.

Rising fuel prices could shrink the value of airline rewards this summer

2026-05-23

Airline miles and points may buy fewer flights and perks this summer as higher jet-fuel costs push up airfares and add fees, according to travel and credit-card rewards experts. The Associated Press reports that airfares in April were 21% higher than a year earlier, citing the U.S. Labor Department.

US stocks close out 8th straight winning week as consumer mood worsens

2026-05-22

Wall Street extended its streak of weekly gains Friday as the S&P 500 rose 0.4% and finished its eighth straight winning week, the best such run since 2023. The rise came even as a University of Michigan survey showed U.S. consumer sentiment falling to a record low, with inflation expectations worsening. Concerns over oil prices tied to the war with Iran and higher global bond yields added to uncertainty for stocks and other assets.

Gas prices at four-year highs leave drivers weighing EVs and driving less

2026-05-22

Drivers heading into the Memorial Day weekend face elevated gasoline prices, with AAA reporting the national average for a gallon at $4.55, a four-year high. Gasoline prices have stayed high since the start of the war in Iran, and economists and advocates say the pressure is pushing some Americans to consider more fuel-efficient options or alternatives to driving.

Walmart posts strong Q1 sales but warns of weaker second-quarter outlook amid high gas prices

2026-05-22

Walmart reported a 7.3% rise in first‑quarter sales to $177.75 billion, driven by brisk in‑store purchases and a 26% surge in online orders. The company, however, cautioned that a volatile economic backdrop — highlighted by soaring gasoline prices after the Iran war — could curb growth in the coming quarter. Chief Financial Officer John David Rainey said higher fuel costs have already squeezed profit margins and may force price adjustments if the trend persists.

Oil eases and yields fall, helping US stocks erase early losses

2026-05-22

US stocks rose Thursday after oil prices reversed course and Treasurys yields eased, lifting sentiment and narrowing earlier losses. The S&P 500 edged up 0.2%, the Dow gained 276 points, and the Nasdaq climbed 0.1% as investors reacted to swings in Brent crude and the bond market.

Memorial Day: High fuel prices are reshaping summer vacation plans

2026-05-22

Memorial Day marks the traditional start of the U.S. summer travel season, but higher fuel prices and broader inflationary pressures are changing how Americans get away. The AP reports that some families are replacing long trips with shorter weekends and cheaper alternatives as gas, airfares and other travel costs rise. Many travelers are also contending with fewer flight options and added travel disruptions, making planning harder.

What rising fuel prices mean for airline miles and travel rewards this summer

2026-05-22

Airline miles and points from credit cards and loyalty programs may not stretch as far this summer as higher jet-fuel costs drive up airfare and some airline fees, the Associated Press reported May 23. The AP cited Labor Department data showing April airfares were 21% higher than a year earlier and said airlines increasingly use dynamic pricing for flights priced in points.

Walmart Q1 sales strong, but cautious outlook drags shares down 7%

2026-05-21

Walmart reported strong first-quarter sales on Thursday as inflation-weary U.S. consumers across income levels turned to the discounter for low-priced groceries and quick delivery. But the retailer offered a weaker-than-expected forecast for the current quarter, citing economic uncertainty, and its shares fell roughly 7%.

Newsom tells Californians to avoid Chevron over Memorial Day gas prices

2026-05-21

California Gov. Gavin Newsom's office on Thursday urged drivers to skip Chevron-branded fuel over the Memorial Day weekend, pointing to a state analysis that found the oil company charges 60 to 80 cents more per gallon than unbranded alternatives. The call came as Chevron posted signs at its California stations blaming the state's climate policies for the high cost of gas.

Walmart posts strong Q1 sales but warns of cautious outlook amid inflation

2026-05-21

Walmart reported a robust first‑quarter, with U.S. comparable sales up 4.1% and online sales jumping 26%, but the retailer warned that soaring gasoline prices and broader economic uncertainty could curb growth later this year. Chief Financial Officer John David Rainey said the drop in gasoline gallons purchased at Walmart and Sam’s Club stations — falling below ten gallons per visit for the first time since 2022 — signals stress for many American shoppers. Analysts had expected higher profit forecasts, but Walmart’s outlook for the next quarter fell short of Wall Street predictions, sending the stock down about 7% on Thursday.

Long Island Rail Road resumes service after deal ends strike

2026-05-21

Trains resumed on the Long Island Rail Road after a deal ended a strike that shut down the busiest U.S. commuter rail system, officials said. The first trains left New York City’s Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal shortly after noon Tuesday, with full service planned for the evening rush home.

Newsom urges Californians to avoid Chevron over high gas prices

2026-05-21

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office urged drivers to avoid filling up at Chevron stations over Memorial Day weekend, saying the company’s branded fuel routinely costs more than “unbranded” alternatives. The office cited an analysis by a group within the state energy commission, while a Chevron spokesman said the signs are part of a customer-education campaign.

Memorial Day: High fuel prices are reshaping summer vacation plans

2026-05-21

As Memorial Day kicks off the start of the U.S. summer travel season, higher fuel prices and other travel costs are pushing some Americans to scale back trips or choose cheaper, shorter getaways. An AP report highlights families trading longer vacations for local beaches and hikes, citing rising gas prices, higher airfare costs, and other inflation pressures.

Oil’s latest dip helps US stocks erase losses; Nasdaq edges up

2026-05-20

US stocks wavered Thursday as oil prices swung again, but all three major indexes erased earlier declines after Brent crude fell sharply. The S&P 500 rose 0.2%, the Dow gained 0.6% and the Nasdaq edged up 0.1%, according to data reported by the Associated Press.

US stocks rebound as yields ease and oil prices pull back

2026-05-20

U.S. stocks rose Wednesday after pressure eased from the bond market and oil prices gave back some of their earlier gains, the Associated Press reported. The S&P 500 climbed 1.1% for its first rise in four days, and the Dow and Nasdaq also gained. The rebound came as the 10-year Treasury yield fell to 4.67% from 4.67% late Tuesday, while Brent crude settled lower.

Long Island Rail Road resumes operations after deal ends strike

2026-05-20

New York’s Long Island Rail Road resumed service after a deal reached to end a strike that shut down the country’s busiest commuter rail system, with the first trains leaving Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal shortly after noon Tuesday. Officials said full service was planned for the evening rush home, and Gov. Kathy Hochul said the agreement would not increase fares or taxes, though contract details were to be released only after union members approve them. Riders and labor representatives described the impact of the shutdown on commuters and began briefing workers on the contract terms ahead of expected ratification votes.

Bond market sends warning signals as yields jump and stocks slump

2026-05-20

The bond market, a typically steady corner of Wall Street, is flashing warning signals as yields rise to multi-year or even multi-decade highs. The higher borrowing costs are weighing on stocks and influencing policy expectations as investors watch the Federal Reserve, inflation data and oil prices tied to the Iran war.

US stocks slip further from records as bond yields climb, oil eases

2026-05-20

US stocks fell again Tuesday, giving back part of a rally that had pushed major indexes to recent highs. The S&P 500 slid 0.7% for a third straight day, while the Dow fell 322 points and the Nasdaq lost 0.8%, as Treasury yields rose after markets reacted to persistent inflation. Nvidia, due to report results Wednesday, and technology stocks were among the biggest drags.

Target sales rise 5.6% under new CEO as outlook stays cautious

2026-05-20

Target on Wednesday reported the biggest jump in comparable sales in four years, with customers spending across key categories as the retailer rolls out changes after a new CEO took over in February. The company lifted its annual outlook, but investors reacted to a still-cautious forecast as shares fell about 5%.

Bond yields surge to multi-year highs as investors weigh oil and debt risks

2026-05-19

The bond market, typically a quiet corner of Wall Street measured in hundredths of a percentage point, is rumbling again. Yields on government bonds have climbed to levels not seen in years or decades, driven by uncertainty over oil prices tied to the U.S.-Iran war and by mounting concerns about large and growing U.S. government debt.

More Republicans approve of Trump on immigration than economy, poll finds

2026-05-19

A new AP-NORC poll finds that Republicans' approval of President Donald Trump's handling of the economy has dropped to about 6 in 10, down from roughly 8 in 10 in February before the war with Iran began, while Republican support for the president's immigration policies remains higher, according to the survey.

US stocks slip further from record highs as bond yields rise and oil prices wobble

2026-05-19

U.S. stock markets slipped further from record highs on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, as Treasury yields climbed and oil prices fluctuated amid ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The S&P 500 fell 0.7% for a third straight loss, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 322 points (0.6%), and the Nasdaq Composite sank 0.8% to 25,870.71. The Associated Press reported that rising bond yields and volatile oil prices are pressuring investors across sectors.

Bond market warning signals rattle stocks and reshape Trump’s risk calculus

2026-05-19

NEW YORK (AP) — The bond market is sending out warning signals again, with yields climbing to multi-year or even decade highs and putting downward pressure on stock markets worldwide. The surge reflects concerns tied to oil prices and whether they will stay high because of the war with Iran, along with worries about large and growing U.S. and other governments’ debts. When yields rise, borrowing costs for households and businesses increase and investors may shift money away from riskier assets.

Long Island Rail Road resumes after deal ends strike

2026-05-19

New York’s Long Island Rail Road resumed service Tuesday after a deal was reached to end a strike that had shut down the busiest commuter rail system in the U.S. The first trains departed shortly after noon from Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal, with full service planned for the evening rush home.

US stocks recover as bond pressure eases and oil prices fall

2026-05-19

US stocks rebounded Wednesday after pressure eased from the bond market and oil prices gave back some of their recent gains. The S&P 500 rose 1.1% for its first increase in four days, while the Dow climbed 1.3% and the Nasdaq jumped 1.5%.

Japan economy grows at 2.1% annual pace, helped by consumer spending

2026-05-18

TOKYO — Japan’s economy grew at an annualized rate of 2.1% in the January-March quarter, the government said Tuesday, citing resilient consumer demand even as energy prices rise amid the war in Iran. Real GDP rose 0.5% from the previous quarter on a seasonally adjusted basis, marking the second straight quarter of growth.

Deal reached to end Long Island Rail Road strike, trains to restart Tuesday

2026-05-18

Negotiators reached an agreement Monday to end the strike that halted Long Island Rail Road service, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said. Hochul said the deal will not raise fares or taxes and will give employees fair wages, though she said the contract details would be released after union members vote.

Long Island Rail Road resumes operations as deal ends strike in New York

2026-05-18

Trains resumed on the Long Island Rail Road on Tuesday after a deal was reached to end a strike that shut down the busiest commuter rail system in the U.S., officials said. The first trains departed from New York’s Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal shortly after noon, with full service planned for the evening rush home.

US stocks slip further from records as bond yields rise

2026-05-18

US stocks fell again Tuesday, giving back more of a record-setting rally as bond markets priced in higher inflation and sent Treasury yields higher. The S&P 500 lost 0.7% for a third straight day of declines, while the Dow fell 0.6% and the Nasdaq dropped 0.8%, setting up a fresh focus on technology earnings ahead of Nvidia’s results.

Negotiators reach deal to end Long Island Rail Road strike

2026-05-17

Negotiators reached a deal Monday to end the strike that stalled service on the Long Island Rail Road, New York’s busiest commuter rail system, the Associated Press reported. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the deal will not raise fares or taxes and will provide employees fair wages, though she said she cannot disclose contract details until union members vote.

End of Spirit Airlines complicates a search for cheap summer flights

2026-05-17

Spirit Airlines shut down in early May, and a lawyer for the defunct budget carrier apologized in bankruptcy court to price-conscious passengers who may now struggle to find affordable alternatives. The collapse comes as airlines face higher jet fuel costs and more competition just before the summer travel season begins.

Global stocks tumble as AI selloff meets oil-price anxiety

2026-05-16

U.S. stocks fell from all-time highs Friday, joining a worldwide selloff, as a sharp retreat in artificial-intelligence shares collided with rising oil prices linked to the ongoing Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump returns from Chinese state visit to face inflation and affordability pressure

2026-05-16

President Donald Trump returned from a Chinese state visit to economic pressure at home, with consumer inflation rising to 3.8% in April, according to the U.S. Labor Department’s data as reported by The Associated Press. As voters head into primaries before the November general election, Trump’s trip to Beijing and his remarks about Iran and trade deals are fueling debate over how he will address rising prices.

Long Island Rail Road workers to strike after MTA contract talks end

2026-05-16

Los trabajadores del Long Island Rail Road de Nueva York comenzarán una huelga el sábado 16 de mayo, según líderes sindicales, después de que las negociaciones con la Autoridad Metropolitana de Transporte (MTA) terminaran el viernes sin un nuevo contrato. El paro detendrá el sistema ferroviario de cercanías más utilizado de Norteamérica, afectando a los aproximadamente 250.000 viajeros diarios que se desplazan entre Long Island y Manhattan.

Cruise industry expects no impact from hantavirus outbreak on ship

2026-05-16

Cruise industry representatives and travel experts said recent hantavirus and norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships are unlikely to dent demand, even as headlines raise anxiety among potential travelers. In mid-April, the Cruise Lines International Association forecast 38.3 million people would take ocean-going cruises in 2026. The industry expects the Hondius incident and other outbreaks to fade because many trips are booked months in advance, and because refunds are often time-limited once a voyage is close.

Sinking AI stocks knock Wall Street off records as oil and yields rise

2026-05-16

U.S. stocks fell from record highs on Friday as higher oil prices pushed up Treasury yields and rattled the bond market, contributing to a worldwide drop in equities. The S&P 500 fell 1.2%, the Dow slid 537 points, and the Nasdaq sank 1.5%, with AI and other technology shares leading the declines.

Hotter inflation fueled by Iran war keeps pressure on U.S. consumers

2026-05-16

Many Americans are feeling the effects of hotter inflation as a prolonged war with Iran pushes energy prices higher. In weekly and monthly data released this week, the Labor Department reported rising consumer and wholesale inflation, while jobless-claims filings increased but stayed historically low.

Dow back above 50,000 for first time since Iran war as AI boom fuels records

2026-05-15

The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed above 50,000 for the first time since the Iran war began, as a surge in artificial-intelligence profits pushed U.S. stock indexes to all-time highs on Thursday. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq composite also set records, with Cisco Systems leading the gains after reporting stronger-than-expected quarterly results and issuing an upbeat forecast.

Companies from Cisco to Meta cite AI as layoffs mount

2026-05-15

Layoffs are piling up across the technology and industrial landscape, and the words "artificial intelligence" are appearing alongside an increasing number of the announcements. At least six major companies — Cisco, Block, Dow, Pinterest, Lufthansa and Meta — have disclosed plans to shed more than 20,000 jobs this year, with several explicitly pointing to AI as a driver of the cuts, according to a review of recent corporate disclosures. While corporate explanations vary and AI is rarely the sole stated reason, the trend is unnerving workers across sectors.

Shoppers cut back in April as Iran-war gas prices squeeze budgets

2026-05-15

Retail sales rose 0.5% in April, slowing from March, as higher gas prices tied to the Iran war left less money for discretionary spending. Economists said tax refunds helped cushion the impact, but they warned that spending could weaken more sharply once the refund flow fades.

Streamline operations: How AI is fueling tech world layoffs

2026-05-15

Layoffs have been piling up in the tech sector, and the words “artificial intelligence” are appearing in more job-cut notices, the Associated Press reported. AP highlighted recent examples from Cisco, Block, Dow and Lufthansa, where companies cited AI alongside other factors such as restructuring and macroeconomic headwinds. Even when executives point to future roles, workers say the linkage between AI and cuts is adding to uncertainty about job prospects.

Cisco boosts Wall Street records; S&P hits another high, Dow reclaims 50,000

2026-05-15

Wall Street rose to more records Thursday as Cisco Systems reported stronger-than-expected profits and revenue, helping push the S&P 500 to an all-time high for a second straight day. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed back above 50,000 for the first time since the war with Iran began, while the Nasdaq Composite also set a record.

US hotel bookings for World Cup fall short of expectations, survey finds

2026-05-14

U.S. hotel operators say the surge in World Cup bookings they anticipated has not materialized, with room demand in most of the 11 host cities running flat or below typical spring levels, according to an April survey by the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Operators blame high ticket prices, visa delays and international travel concerns for the slow bookings, as short-term rental platforms like Airbnb report stronger demand.

Hotel bookings lag in U.S. World Cup host cities as tournament nears

2026-05-14

The promised economic boost from the World Cup has not yet matched expectations for U.S. hotels, according to an April survey by the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Room bookings have been lighter than expected in many of the 11 U.S. host cities, as international fan travel concerns and visa wait worries weigh on demand. The World Cup opens June 11 in Mexico City.

Tech rally lifts Wall Street to records as oil, inflation pressure

2026-05-14

Tech stocks powered Wall Street to record highs Wednesday even as many U.S. stocks fell after fresh inflation reports raised fresh questions about interest-rate cuts. The S&P 500 rose 0.6% to a record close, helped by megacap chip and semiconductor gains, while the Dow slipped and the Nasdaq hit its own high.

United flight attendants ratify 5-year contract with boarding pay, retro pay

2026-05-14

United flight attendants ratified a new five-year labor contract on Tuesday that will provide their first pay increases in six years, along with boarding pay, the union said. The agreement covers nearly 30,000 flight attendants at United and includes average pay increases this summer plus $741 million in retroactive pay, according to the Association of Flight Attendants.

Wall Street’s record run halts as AI chip stocks slide and oil rises

2026-05-13

Wall Street’s record-breaking rally stalled Tuesday as a sharp pullback in AI chip stocks and another climb in crude oil prices prompted a pause. The S&P 500 slipped 0.2% from its all-time high, the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 56 points (0.1%), and the Nasdaq composite sank 0.7% from its own record. Some of the heaviest falls hit companies that had surged on the artificial-intelligence boom, while Brent crude jumped 3.4% to settle at $107.77 a barrel as a fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire threatened to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed to oil tankers. A separate report showed U.S. inflation accelerated more than economists had forecast in April, raising fresh questions about when the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates.

Wall Street’s record run stumbles as oil jumps and AI chip stocks slide

2026-05-13

Wall Street reversed course Tuesday after a record run, with the S&P 500 slipping 0.2% from its all-time high while the Nasdaq fell 0.7% from its own record. Oil prices rose as the war with Iran added risk to supplies, and Treasury yields climbed as traders priced in the possibility of higher-for-longer rates.

Nissan narrows annual loss to $3.4 billion, forecasts modest return to profit

2026-05-12

Nissan Motor Corp. narrowed its annual loss to $3.4 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, as the Japanese automaker continued to struggle under U.S. tariffs, inflation, and competition from Chinese manufacturers. CEO Ivan Espinosa said the company is entering a phase of growth and expects to return to profitability in the current year.

Nissan cuts losses but expects to return to profit in 2027

2026-05-12

Nissan cut its fiscal-year losses but remained in the red as the company cited U.S. tariffs, inflation and intensifying competition, according to its results released Wednesday. CEO Ivan Espinosa said Nissan sees “clear signs” of a turnaround as the company plans cost cuts and new model launches.

S&P 500 and Nasdaq hit records as strong jobs data overshadows oil and war jitters

2026-05-10

U.S. stocks rose to all-time highs on Friday, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq notching records, as a surprisingly strong jobs report overshadowed investor anxiety over elevated oil prices and renewed military action in the Strait of Hormuz. Employers added 115,000 jobs in April, nearly double what economists had forecast, extending the market's winning streak to six weeks.

Oregon gas-tax repeal on May ballot pits road funding against soaring prices

2026-05-10

Oregon voters will decide whether to repeal a gas-tax increase in the May 19 primary, a referendum that pits the state's need for road-repair funding against the highest gasoline prices since the Iran war began. The Democratic-controlled Legislature raised the tax last fall to pay for transportation projects; Republicans gathered 250,000 signatures to put the increase before voters.

Young Americans’ job market optimism plummets, creating widest generational gap globally, poll finds

2026-05-10

Young Americans have lost confidence in the job market at a pace not seen since the Great Recession, with the share who say it is a good time to find work in their area dropping 27 percentage points since 2023, according to a new Gallup World Poll released Monday. The decline has produced the largest gap in job-market optimism between young and old of any country surveyed, as older Americans’ views remained relatively stable.

U.S. hiring beats forecasts in April as job market holds steady amid Iran war

2026-05-10

U.S. employers added 115,000 jobs in April, nearly double the 65,000 forecasters had expected, the Labor Department reported Friday, keeping the unemployment rate at a low 4.3% even as the war with Iran drives up fuel costs and uncertainty. The stronger-than-expected hiring, together with a stock market that approached an all-time high and a surge in workers voluntarily quitting their jobs, suggested the economy is withstanding the four-month-old conflict better than many had anticipated.

Oregon gas tax referendum heads to May 19 ballot as prices surge nationwide

2026-05-10

Oregon Democrats’ gas tax increase is headed to voters on Oregon’s May 19 primary ballot, with Republicans pushing a referendum just as the war with Iran has driven up pump prices across the United States. The measure, approved by Oregon’s Democratic-controlled Legislature and Gov. Tina Kotek last year, will ask whether to repeal the increases in the state gas tax and related transportation fees.

US companies keep adding jobs despite Iran-war shock, report shows

2026-05-10

The Labor Department reported that US employers added 115,000 jobs in April, beating economists’ expectations even as the Iran war disrupted global oil supplies and pushed gasoline prices above $4.50 a gallon. The unemployment rate held at 4.3%, and the report showed healthcare and transportation leading hiring while manufacturers cut jobs.

Young Americans’ job-market optimism drops sharply, new Gallup poll finds

2026-05-10

Young Americans are much less likely than older adults to say it is a good time to find a job where they live, according to a new Gallup World Poll analysis released Monday. In the United States, 43% of people ages 15 to 34 said it is a good time to find work in their local job market, versus 64% of those 55 and older.

Jobs, unemployment stay low as mortgage rates rise amid Iran war

2026-05-10

U.S. employers added 115,000 jobs last month, and the unemployment rate held at 4.3%, the Labor Department reported May 8. At the same time, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.37% and weekly jobless claims increased to 200,000 for the week ending May 2, according to Labor Department data. The reports arrived as markets weighed the economic fallout from the war with Iran.

US stocks reach records after jobs report offsets higher oil prices

2026-05-10

U.S. stocks rose to record highs Friday after a jobs report pointed to continued strength in the labor market, even as fighting in the Strait of Hormuz pushed oil prices higher. The S&P 500 climbed 0.8% to an all-time high after U.S. employers added 115,000 more jobs than they cut last month.

U.S. stocks fall from records as oil prices yo-yo

2026-05-08

U.S. stocks retreated from all-time highs on Thursday, pulled lower by a volatile session in crude oil as investors weighed shifting signals about diplomatic efforts to end the Iran war. Brent crude yo-yoed between $96 and $102 a barrel before settling at $100.06, down 1.2%, amid conflicting statements from Pakistan and Iran on the prospects for a ceasefire that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

US gasoline price jumps 31 cents to $4.54, up 52% since Iran war

2026-05-08

The average price of regular gasoline in the United States surged 31 cents in a week to $4.54 a gallon Wednesday, according to AAA data, a level 52% higher than before the war with Iran began. The war has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, stranding oil tankers and disrupting the flow of a fifth of the world’s crude oil, keeping crude prices elevated. Oil prices dipped below $100 a barrel Wednesday on renewed ceasefire hopes, but experts warn that even a lasting resolution would take months to restore normal fuel supplies and bring pump prices down.

Worship attendance at churches rises in 2025 after decades of decline

2026-05-08

Worship attendance at churches and other houses of worship rose in 2025 for the first time in about two decades, according to a new report by the Hartford Institute for Religion Research. The institute said its survey of leaders at 7,453 congregations found median in-person attendance increased to 70 adults, after falling to 45 during the COVID-19 period.

Disney offsets fewer overseas visitors with streaming and strong theme-park spending

2026-05-07

Disney reported a stronger-than-expected quarterly performance as its streaming business and U.S. theme-park spending helped offset declines in international tourism, according to a Wednesday update. The Walt Disney Co. said Experiences operating income rose 5% in the quarter, even as overall attendance at its U.S. parks fell 1% year over year because fewer overseas visitors came to the resorts.

Jobless claims rise to 200,000 but stay near historic lows, Labor says

2026-05-07

The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits rose to 200,000 in the week ending May 2, the U.S. Labor Department reported Thursday, but the level remains near historically low levels. The Labor Department said the previous week’s figure was revised up to 190,000.

Job openings steady in March at 6.9M as hiring improves; Iran war impact looms

2026-05-06

U.S. employers advertised 6.87 million job openings in March, barely changed from 6.92 million in February, but a pickup in hiring and voluntary quits signaled underlying strength in the labor market before the full economic consequences of the Iran war took hold, the Labor Department reported Tuesday. The monthly Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey captured a moment when the U.S. economy appeared to be stabilizing after a rocky 2025. However, economists cautioned that the outlook has already shifted as the conflict that began Feb. 28 pushes oil above $100 a barrel, threatens higher inflation, and raises the prospect of tighter monetary conditions and a global recession.

Disney results beat forecasts as streaming and U.S. parks offset weaker tourism

2026-05-06

Disney reported second-quarter profit and revenue that beat expectations, citing strength in its streaming business and spending at U.S. theme parks that offset weaker international tourism. The company said attendance at its U.S. parks declined 1% from a year earlier as overseas visitor numbers fell, and it expects improvement in the current quarter. The Walt Disney Co. also warned that inflation and energy prices could strain consumers.

Wall Street hits records as oil eases and earnings beat expectations

2026-05-06

U.S. stocks rose to record highs Tuesday as oil prices gave back part of their sharp Monday increases and companies continued reporting bigger profits for the start of 2026 than analysts expected. The S&P 500 climbed 0.8% to a new record after topping its prior all-time high from last week, and the Dow and Nasdaq also reached fresh highs.

Wall Street retreats from records as Middle East flareups drive oil higher

2026-05-05

U.S. stock indexes retreated from all-time highs on Monday while oil prices surged following new clashes in the Middle East that threaten a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran. The United Arab Emirates reported coming under Iranian fire for the first time since the early April truce, a development that sent global markets into sharp flux. The S&P 500 fell 0.4% from its latest peak, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 557 points, or 1.1%, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 0.2%.

Disney profits jump as streaming and U.S. parks offset weaker overseas travel

2026-05-05

Disney reported second-quarter profit and revenue above expectations, citing strength in streaming and spending at its U.S. theme parks that helped offset weaker overseas tourism. The Walt Disney Co. also said domestic parks are doing well even as customers face higher inflation and energy prices, and CFO Hugh Johnston said the company has not seen a change in consumer behavior yet. Shares rose after the results were announced.

Wall Street slips from records as oil jumps on Iran-Hormuz escalation

2026-05-05

Wall Street fell Monday from record highs as oil prices rose sharply amid renewed fighting in the Middle East and worries it could undermine a ceasefire in the war with Iran. Brent crude settled up 5.8% at $114.44 after the United Arab Emirates said it came under attack by Iran for the first time since the ceasefire began in early April.

Inflation jumps as gas soars; mortgage and jobs data show mixed signals

2026-05-03

The latest inflation report showed prices rising sharply in March as gasoline prices surged amid the Iran war, potentially delaying interest-rate cuts. Separately, the economy grew at a modest pace at the start of 2026, consumer confidence edged up, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate ticked higher, and weekly unemployment claims fell.

Apple leads Wall Street to more records as oil prices pull back

2026-05-02

U.S. stocks rose to new records Friday as Apple and other major companies reported stronger profits than analysts expected and as Brent crude prices eased following concerns tied to the war in Iran. The S&P 500 climbed 0.3% to a fresh all-time high for the fifth straight week, while the Nasdaq added 0.9% to its own record.

Apple beats revenue expectations as iPhone sales stay strong

2026-05-02

Apple reported strong results for its January-March quarter on Thursday, helped by continued iPhone sales momentum. The company also used the update to outline artificial intelligence plans and to address a leadership transition, with CEO Tim Cook set to step down later this year.

How tariffs and war are hurting California small businesses

2026-04-30

California small business owners say the cascading effects of tariff uncertainty and the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran are squeezing costs, shipping rates and consumer spending. In San Diego and around the state, retailers and apparel makers described cutting production, shrinking staff and hesitating to raise prices as fuel costs climb. The Associated Press spoke with owners and port officials about how higher logistics costs are being passed along and how long the damage could last.

UAE to leave OPEC, raising uncertainty for global oil price swings

2026-04-29

The United Arab Emirates said it will leave the OPEC oil cartel on Friday, a move that could weaken the group’s ability to influence world crude prices. The UAE said it plans to keep pursuing higher crude production “in a gradual and measured manner, aligned with demand and market conditions,” while Iran blocks the Strait of Hormuz, limiting near-term exports from Persian Gulf producers.

Many U.S. workers say they don’t know what’s expected after COVID

2026-04-29

Many U.S. workers say they have trouble understanding what’s expected of them at work after the coronavirus pandemic reshaped workplaces, a Gallup analysis found. In November, just under half of employees reported they “strongly agreed” that they know what is expected, down from 56% in January 2020.

UAE to leave OPEC effective May 1, weakening cartel leverage

2026-04-29

The United Arab Emirates said Tuesday it will leave OPEC effective May 1, stripping the oil cartel of its third-largest producer. UAE officials said the move reflects the country’s long-term strategic and economic vision, including increased domestic energy production.

AstraZeneca reports first-quarter profit, beats analyst estimates

2026-04-28

AstraZeneca reported first-quarter profit of $3.08 billion for the period ending March, beating analyst expectations, the company said Wednesday. The Cambridge, Britain-based drugmaker also reported revenue of $15.29 billion, surpassing forecasts cited by analysts.

Trump’s economy approval slips in AP-NORC poll as Iran-war prices rise

2026-04-22

President Donald Trump’s approval on the economy fell to 30% in April, according to a new AP-NORC poll conducted April 16-20, as the Iran war pushed up prices and muddied Americans’ cost-of-living outlook. The survey found a similarly low 32% approval for Trump’s handling of Iran, and said even Republicans showed weakening confidence.

Wall Street sets records as Iran war persists and profits stay strong

2026-04-22

Wall Street has kept pushing U.S. stocks to new records even as the Iran war continues, gasoline remains expensive and households feel less confident about the economy. On Wednesday, the S&P 500 closed at a record 7,137.90, with investors pointing less to war-related fear and more to company profits.

Jobless claims inch up to 214,000 as layoffs stay low but costs rise

2026-04-22

Americans filed for unemployment benefits for the week ending April 18, rising 6,000 to 214,000, the U.S. Labor Department reported Thursday. The increase left jobless-aid claims within a range economists have described as historically healthy since the pandemic recession. Separately, the Labor Department reported that consumer prices rose 3.3% in March from a year earlier, pushed by the largest jump in gas prices in six decades.

UK inflation hits 3.3% in March as pump prices surge after Iran war

2026-04-22

London’s Office for National Statistics said U.K. inflation rose in March as higher petrol prices followed disruption to energy supplies tied to the Iran war. The annual consumer price inflation rate climbed to 3.3% from 3% the previous month, with analysts pointing to fuel as the key driver.

US stocks rally to records as Brent tops $100 on Iran war worries

2026-04-22

US stocks rose to multiple records on Wednesday as several large companies reported profits that beat analysts’ expectations. The rally ran alongside a jump in Brent crude, which climbed above $100 amid uncertainty about the war with Iran and disruptions to tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

US jobless claims dip to 207,000 as layoffs stay low amid Iran war

2026-04-16

The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits fell to 207,000 for the week ending April 11, the U.S. Labor Department reported Thursday, signaling steady layoffs despite broader economic uncertainty. The Labor Department also said the four-week moving average of jobless claims rose by 500 to 209,750. The latest reading comes as Iran’s war with the U.S. threatens to roil oil prices and the broader economy.

S&P 500 notches 11th record in 12 days as earnings beat, ceasefire talks advance

2026-04-16

The S&P 500 rose 0.3% to 7,041.28 on Thursday, its 11th gain in 12 sessions and a second consecutive all-time closing high, as better-than-expected corporate earnings helped Wall Street hold its footing despite continued uncertainty over the Iran war. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 115 points, or 0.2%, to 48,578.72, and the Nasdaq composite closed at 24,102.70, according to the Associated Press.

Smallest US cattle herd in 75 years keeps beef prices near record

2026-04-16

The U.S. cattle herd has fallen to its smallest size in more than 75 years, and ranchers say the conditions needed to reverse that decline are not in place — leaving ground beef near all-time highs at American grocery stores. The average price of all uncooked ground beef reached $6.86 per pound in March, according to federal data, just 3 cents below the record set in February and up nearly 48 percent from March 2021. Persistent drought across cattle country, a livestock border closure with Mexico, and the steep costs of expanding operations are each working against a quick rebound.

US jobless claims dip to 207,000 as layoffs stay low amid Iran war

2026-04-15

U.S. jobless-claims applications fell last week, signaling layoffs remained relatively restrained even as the Iran war and higher energy costs cloud the economy. For the week ending April 11, applications for unemployment benefits dropped by 11,000 to 207,000, according to the Labor Department.

High oil prices and geopolitical uncertainty cloud bank profit outlook

2026-04-15

Banks reported another quarter of strong profits, helped by a resilient U.S. economy and dealmaking in investment banking, but executives cautioned that higher oil prices could weigh on consumers and that geopolitical uncertainty could slow growth later in 2026. JPMorgan Chief Executive Jamie Dimon said the bank’s outlook reflects “an increasingly complex set of risks,” including wars and energy prices, and the firm slightly lowered its full-year profit forecast.

53 million filers claimed Trump tax breaks; average refund rose 11%, Treasury says

2026-04-15

WASHINGTON — More than 53 million Americans filed returns claiming at least one new provision from Republicans' tax and spending law by Wednesday's Tax Day deadline, according to a Treasury Department official who spoke on condition of anonymity to preview the figures, as IRS data showed the average refund reached $3,462 — up 11%, or about $346, from the prior year's $3,116 average but below the $1,000 increase the White House projected at the start of the filing season.

US stocks rally and return to pre-Iran war levels as oil eases

2026-04-14

US stocks rallied Monday and recovered the last of their losses tied to the U.S.-Iran war, as investors weighed signs of restraint against lingering risks to global crude flows. The S&P 500 rose 1% and was back to its pre-attack level, while oil prices pared their earlier gains after weekend ceasefire talks failed.

1970s lessons leave global economies less exposed to oil shocks

2026-04-13

The world economy is experiencing a flashback to the 1970s as oil prices surge after the Middle East war, pushing up gasoline, diesel and jet fuel costs and raising fears of stagflation, the toxic mix of higher prices and slower growth. But economists say the damage may be more limited now than during the 1973 Yom Kippur War oil embargo because countries built cushions over subsequent decades, including fuel-efficiency gains, stockpiles and alternative energy sources.

For some Americans, rising costs put a new car out of reach

2026-04-12

Rising car prices and financing costs are making it harder for some Americans to buy a second vehicle, even as consumer inflation remains elevated, the Associated Press reported. In interviews, buyers described stretched household budgets and a shift toward longer loans or used cars as sticker shock and higher monthly payments squeeze affordability.

Stocks drift lower and oil eases ahead of planned US-Iran talks

2026-04-11

Stocks slipped on Wall Street Friday as oil prices eased before planned U.S.-Iran talks following a shaky ceasefire agreement. The S&P 500 inched 0.1% lower, the Dow fell 0.6% and the Nasdaq rose 0.4%, while benchmark oil ended the session lower after days of volatility tied to the war’s impact on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

USPS to suspend pension contributions and seek stamp price hike

2026-04-11

The U.S. Postal Service said it has told federal budget officials it will temporarily suspend employer contributions to Federal Employees Retirement System annuities to preserve cash amid an “ongoing, severe financial crisis,” while asking regulators to approve higher postage rates. USPS also seeks to raise the price of a First-Class Mail “Forever” stamp from 78 cents to 82 cents.

February inflation stayed elevated before Iran war gas price spike

2026-04-10

A key inflation gauge remained elevated in February, before the war in Iran spiked gas prices, a sign that everyday costs were already running high. The Federal Reserve-monitored measure rose 0.4% from January and was 2.8% higher than a year earlier, according to data released by the government on Thursday, with officials expecting March’s larger jump once the Iran-war fuel shock shows through.

U.S. stocks rise as oil trims gains on ceasefire hopes with Iran

2026-04-09

U.S. stocks rose Thursday as oil prices trimmed earlier gains amid hopes for a ceasefire with Iran, even as Wall Street kept a close eye on uncertainty in the region. The S&P 500 finished up 0.6%, while the Dow added 275 points and the Nasdaq climbed 0.8%.

Rising gas prices push Fed to weigh potential rate hike this year

2026-04-09

The Federal Reserve’s officials have become more open to a possible interest-rate hike this year as higher gas prices tied to the Iran war risks keeping inflation elevated, minutes from the Fed’s March meeting show. The shift marks a change from roughly the past 18 months of the Fed leaning toward cuts or no change, the minutes and Fed’s policy statements indicate.

The psychology of sitting in your car before going inside

2026-04-09

Many people pull into a driveway or parking spot and stay in their cars for a few minutes—sometimes while scrolling on a phone, other times just sitting—before going inside. Psychologists told the Associated Press that these brief parked-car pauses can act as an emotional buffer, helping people decompress between parts of the day. They also cautioned that the same “reset” can backfire when it turns into rumination or phone scrolling that keeps stress in motion.

US jobless aid filings rise to 219,000 after ceasefire amid mixed labor signals

2026-04-09

The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits for the week ending April 4 rose to 219,000 from 203,000 the prior week, the U.S. Labor Department reported April 9. The increase was fueled in the near term by a shifting geopolitical backdrop after a two-week ceasefire announcement between Iran, Israel and the United States, but analysts said filings remained within a familiar range. Markets pulled back on April 9 after oil prices fell sharply following the ceasefire but rebounded amid skepticism about whether the deal would hold.

Jobless claims rise to 219,000 while unemployment holds near 4.3% after Iran ceasefire

2026-04-08

U.S. applications for unemployment benefits rose last week, reaching 219,000 for the week ending April 4, the Labor Department reported. The increase came as a two-week Iran-U.S. ceasefire lifted markets and helped pull oil prices sharply lower before investors recalculated the outlook. Economists say jobless claims remain a close-to-real-time read on layoffs, which continue to unfold in a still-cautious labor market.

US stocks drift higher ahead of Trump’s deadline for Iran power plant strikes

2026-04-07

US stocks rose in cautious trading Monday as markets weighed President Donald Trump’s deadline to attack Iranian power plants and potential knock-on effects for oil supplies. S&P 500 climbed 0.4%, the Dow rose 0.4% and the Nasdaq gained 0.5%, with oil prices also ticking higher amid uncertainty after Iran rejected a ceasefire proposal.

Custom-fit demand rises, but fewer tailors are left to do the work

2026-04-07

Manhattan tailor Kil Bae says customers increasingly seek custom alterations and resizing as fashion changes and weight-loss drugs drive demand for adjusted fits. But Bae, 63, is among a shrinking group of tailors, dressmakers and sewers as the occupation ages and has struggled to attract enough replacements, according to labor and fashion-industry experts.

US futures tick lower as markets closed for Good Friday

2026-04-04

Wall Street was closed for Good Friday, but U.S. stock futures edged lower early Friday after a strong March jobs report. Futures for the S&P 500 fell 0.3%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.2% and Nasdaq futures slipped 0.4%, while energy markets were also closed after sharp gains the prior day on worries the Iran conflict could last longer.

United raises bag fees and rolls out tiered premium fares

2026-04-04

United Airlines said most customers will pay $10 more to check a bag beginning Friday, with the first checked bag priced at $45 on eligible routes. The airline also announced a tiered fare system in premium cabins, introducing a new base option alongside standard and fully refundable fares.

Egg prices fall 60% ahead of Easter and Passover as bird flu eases

2026-04-03

U.S. egg prices are much lower than last year heading into Easter and Passover, after falling about 60% from record highs reached in 2025. The drop is linked largely to bird flu’s impact on poultry supplies earlier in the year, along with industry rebuilding of egg-laying flocks and changes in egg imports.

Older Americans turn to gig work in retirement to cover bills

2026-04-03

A growing number of Americans are “unretiring,” taking gig jobs or other contract work after decades in careers, citing rising living costs and insufficient retirement savings. In reporting from Plainview, New York, drivers and pet-care workers describe flexibility and social contact alongside limited job protections and income volatility.

U.S. jobless aid filings fall to 202,000 as layoffs stay low

2026-04-02

The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell to 202,000 for the week ending March 28, a Labor Department report showed Thursday, keeping layoffs relatively sparse. Jobless claims have been mostly in a tight band for months, even as higher energy costs linked to the Iran war add pressure to households and businesses.

Five used EVs with low prices, per Edmunds, as gas prices rise

2026-04-02

Gas prices have risen in recent weeks, and Edmunds has seen shoppers show increased interest in hybrids, plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles. For buyers looking to go fully electric without paying new-vehicle sticker shock, Edmunds says a 3-year-old EV can be cheaper than its gas counterpart thanks to depreciation.

US jobless aid filings fall to 202,000 as layoffs stay low

2026-04-01

US applications for unemployment benefits fell to 202,000 for the week ending March 28, the U.S. Labor Department reported April 2. The decline came as layoffs remained sparse even as uncertainty tied to the Iran war raised costs, with the March jobs report due the next day.

Drivers using personal vehicles for work face higher gas costs

2026-04-01

Gas prices have risen sharply in recent weeks, squeezing workers who use their own cars, vans or trucks to earn income. An Associated Press report described Uber and delivery drivers, housekeepers and pet-care workers in the United States dealing with higher fill-up costs while many say their pay is not adjusted for gas.

Military suicides fell in 2024, but long-term active-duty trend rises

2026-04-01

Fewer American service members died by suicide in 2024, with Pentagon data showing deaths fell 11% to 471 from the year before. The Pentagon report also said the overall suicide rate for active duty troops dropped in 2024 compared with 2023, but the long-term rate for active-duty service members has been rising since 2011.

South Africans rush to buy fuel as record diesel hikes near

2026-04-01

South Africa’s Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced a fuel levy cut Tuesday, but motorists still rushed to buy fuel ahead of record price increases taking effect at midnight. Diesel will rise by 7.51 rand ($0.44) and gasoline by 3.06 rand ($0.18), the highest on record, after the Iran war drove up risks for global energy markets and added pressure on domestic fuel prices.

McCormick to combine with Unilever’s foods unit in $44.8B deal

2026-03-31

McCormick announced it will combine with Unilever’s foods division, a move that will create a larger packaged-food company with the McCormick name and leadership. Under the terms disclosed March 31, Unilever and its shareholders are expected to own 65% of the combined company’s outstanding equity, with McCormick shareholders owning the remaining 35%. The companies said the deal is expected to close by mid-2027, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.

US consumer confidence edges up in March as gas prices surge with Iran war

2026-03-31

U.S. consumer confidence inched higher in March even as energy prices rose sharply following the war in Iran, the Conference Board said. Its index rose to 91.8 from 91 in February, while survey measures tied to inflation expectations turned more pessimistic. The report comes as gas prices in the U.S. climbed above $4 a gallon for the first time since 2022, and as labor-market data showed February employment weakness.

Powell urges Fed to monitor inflation as energy prices rise

2026-03-31

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said Monday that the Fed is watching closely as energy prices spike, a shift he said could raise inflation expectations. Speaking at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Powell said monetary policy can respond over the longer term and that energy shocks “tend to come and go pretty quickly,” but multiple shocks could be concerning.

Sysco to buy Restaurant Depot in $29 billion deal to serve more restaurants

2026-03-31

Sysco, the U.S. food distributor based in Houston, has agreed to acquire Restaurant Depot in a deal worth more than $29 billion. The companies said their boards have approved the transaction, which would expand Sysco’s reach in the fast-growing “cash-and-carry” wholesale segment for restaurants and other businesses.

Wall Street bonuses hit record $246,900 in 2025 as profits rose

2026-03-27

Wall Street bonuses reached a record average of $246,900 in 2025, New York state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said Thursday. DiNapoli estimated the Wall Street bonus pool at $49.2 billion, citing a more than 30% rise in Wall Street profits last year.

Equal Pay Day highlights gap between men and women’s pay equity views

2026-03-27

Most working women in the United States say they are disadvantaged when it comes to earning competitive wages, while many men disagree, according to a new AP-NORC poll released ahead of Equal Pay Day. The survey also finds employed women are more likely than employed men to describe their pay as a “major” source of stress.

Jobless claims tick up to 210,000 as employers keep hiring low

2026-03-27

The number of Americans applying for jobless aid inched up last week, the U.S. Labor Department reported, even as employers have continued to retain workers. For the week ending March 21, initial filings rose to 210,000 from 205,000 the prior week.

Wall Street bonuses hit a record after profits surged in 2025

2026-03-26

New York state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said Wall Street bonuses rose to a record average of about $246,900 in 2025 as profits increased. DiNapoli estimated bonus payouts tied to New York City reached a record $49.2 billion last year and projected additional tax revenue for the state and city versus 2024.

Mortgage rates jump to 6.38%, highest in more than 6 months, squeezing buyers

2026-03-26

The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage rose to 6.38% this week, the highest level in more than six months, increasing borrowing costs for spring homebuyers. Freddie Mac said the benchmark rate climbed from 6.22% last week, while mortgage applications fell amid higher affordability pressure, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

Pop Mart shares sink on Labubu reliance despite revenue surge

2026-03-25

Pop Mart’s Hong Kong-listed shares fell nearly 23% after the company reported 2025 revenue that rose sharply but did not fully satisfy analyst expectations. Analysts said investor concern about whether earnings can grow beyond the toy’s Labubu-driven boom weighed on the stock.

US stocks slip as oil rises amid mixed signals on Iran talks

2026-03-24

U.S. stock indexes fell Tuesday and gave back part of the rally sparked the day before when President Donald Trump said the United States and Iran held productive talks. Oil prices, meanwhile, rose as traders weighed continued fighting in the Middle East against diplomatic signals including Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s offer to help facilitate talks.

High oil prices drag stocks as Fed rate-cut hopes collapse

2026-03-21

Oil prices surged again on Friday, shaking markets and worsening Wall Street’s expectations for interest rates, according to traders and investment officials. Stocks fell across major U.S. indexes after Brent and U.S. crude prices climbed, and bond yields jumped as investors braced for higher inflation tied to the war with Iran.

US wholesale prices rose 3.4% in February; Fed weighs Iran energy shock

2026-03-19

U.S. wholesale prices rose more than expected in February, driven in part by higher food costs, according to the Labor Department. The producer price index rose 0.7% for the month and 3.4% from a year earlier, a pace last seen in February 2025. The release landed as the Federal Reserve met in Washington amid war-related energy price swings.

U.S. national debt tops $39 trillion as Iran war strains finances

2026-03-19

The U.S. national debt surpassed a record $39 trillion on Wednesday, according to the Associated Press, with the milestone arriving weeks after the start of the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran. The figure, the AP reports, underscores debates in Washington over how to balance competing priorities such as tax changes, defense spending and efforts to curb deficits. The Government Accountability Office has warned that rising debt can increase borrowing costs and reduce what businesses can invest in, while a fiscal watchdog group says the current pace is unsustainable.

US stocks slump as oil jumps and inflation worries return to Fed

2026-03-19

US stocks slid Wednesday as oil prices rose on Iran-related disruptions, adding to worries that inflation will worsen and make it less likely the Federal Reserve resumes rate cuts. The S&P 500 fell 1.4% and ended a week in which it had been holding gains, after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said policymakers “just don’t know” how long the oil shock will last.

Macy’s strong Q4 results, but CEO warns of tariff and Iran-war uncertainty

2026-03-18

Macy’s reported stronger-than-expected profits in the fourth quarter and said comparable sales rose again, helped by a merchandise overhaul and improved customer service. However, CEO Tony Spring issued a reserved outlook for the year, citing uncertainty tied to President Donald Trump’s tariffs and the Iran war’s impact on energy prices.

Strong ticket sales help offset rising jet fuel costs, US airlines say

2026-03-18

US airlines said strong ticket sales are helping offset soaring jet fuel costs tied to the war in the Middle East, even as the industry expects airfares to rise over time. Delta, American Airlines and United Airlines executives told investors Tuesday that record bookings this year are absorbing hundreds of millions of dollars in added fuel expenses.

U.S. stocks rise to best day since Iran war began as oil eases

2026-03-15

U.S. stocks climbed Monday for their best day since the Iran war began, helped by a sharp drop in oil prices. The S&P 500 rose about 1% for its biggest gain in five weeks, while the Dow and Nasdaq also advanced as traders tracked the impact of the Strait of Hormuz disruption on inflation expectations.

As gas prices rise, drivers can stretch their tanks farther with tips

2026-03-15

Gas prices tend to make filling up feel more painful, but experts say drivers can often reduce how much fuel they burn by changing their driving habits and keeping vehicles in good shape. Consumer Reports and AAA, along with auto-industry and automotive testing experts, recommend actions ranging from moderating highway speeds to checking tire pressure and minimizing idle time.

AI‑linked layoffs spark debate as firms cite efficiency, economists urge caution

2026-03-15

A wave of corporate layoffs this winter has been framed by several tech‑heavy firms as a consequence of accelerating artificial‑intelligence adoption, but economists say the connection is far from clear. Amazon announced 16,000 corporate cuts, while Pinterest, Expedia and Dow cited AI‑driven strategies for shedding up to 15% of their workforces. The companies’ statements and expert analysis suggest a more nuanced picture of how AI is reshaping employment.

California’s gas-price law sits unused as Iran shock lifts prices

2026-03-14

California lawmakers passed a law meant to curb extreme spikes in gas prices, giving regulators authority to cap certain refinery profits and penalize price gouging. But the rules tied to that authority have never been used, and regulators voted last year to delay them for five years. With gasoline topping $5.30 a gallon statewide amid the Iran war’s effect on global oil markets, the dormant policy has come under renewed scrutiny.

Job openings near 7 million in January, Labor Department data show

2026-03-14

U.S. job openings rose to about 7 million in January, according to data the Labor Department released Friday. Employers added openings despite a labor market that has looked sluggish in recent months, with layoffs edging lower and quits slipping modestly.

U.S. economy stumbled into 2025’s end as Iran war lifted energy costs

2026-03-14

WASHINGTON — New government data released Friday showed cracks in the “highly resilient” U.S. economy appearing before the Iran war began, with economic growth slowing into late 2025 and consumer spending weakening after adjusting for inflation. The Commerce Department said fourth-quarter growth was cut to a 0.7% annual rate from an earlier estimate of 1.4%, while a University of Michigan survey showed consumer sentiment worsening after Feb. 28, when the attack on Iran began.

California’s unused gas‑price law faces criticism as pump prices hit $5.30 per gallon

2026-03-14

Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2023 law that lets California cap refinery profits and penalize price‑gouging has never been invoked, even as gasoline prices surged to $5.30 a gallon across the state in early 2026. The delay was cemented when the California Energy Commission voted in August 2025 to postpone the rules for five years, a move now under fresh scrutiny amid a global oil shock tied to the war with Iran. Consumer-advocacy groups and environmental watchdogs have called for activating the law to protect drivers, while the oil industry argues the caps would push refiners out of California altogether.

US economy shows weak fourth‑quarter growth as oil prices surge amid Iran conflict

2026-03-14

The U.S. economy grew at an annualized 0.7 % rate in the fourth quarter of 2025, a sharp downgrade from the Commerce Department’s initial 1.4 % estimate, according to data released Friday. Rising gasoline prices that are nearing $4 a gallon and lingering effects from a 43‑day government shutdown are weighing on consumer spending and confidence, while economists warn that inflation pressures could intensify ahead of a possible Federal Reserve rate hike.

When stock markets get shaken, it can pay for investors to be patient

2026-03-13

U.S. stock markets have swung sharply amid the Iran war, leading some investors to consider selling or moving retirement holdings. But investors with long time horizons have historically benefited from staying invested through steep drops, according to financial strategists. The advice is to avoid putting retirement money—especially money needed soon—into stocks and to use diversification to smooth shocks.

US jobless claims edge down to 213,000 as layoffs stay low

2026-03-11

U.S. jobless benefit applications fell modestly to 213,000 for the week ending March 7, the Labor Department reported Thursday, a sign layoffs remained at historically low levels even as the job market shows signs of weakening. Economists surveyed by FactSet had forecast 215,000 new claims. The Labor Department also reported that a four-week average of claims dropped to 212,000.

Average US mortgage rate rises to 6.11% amid war-linked bond jitters

2026-03-11

The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate rose again this week, ticking up to 6.11% for the benchmark 30-year fixed, Freddie Mac said Thursday. The increase comes as bond-market investors react to uncertainty tied to the war with Iran, despite softer signals elsewhere in the economy.

U.S. stocks stay calm as oil rises amid Iran war and inflation worries

2026-03-10

U.S. stocks held steady Wednesday even as oil prices rose after the war with Iran disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global crude flows. The S&P 500 edged down 0.1%, while the Dow fell 0.6% and the Nasdaq rose 0.1%, as investors weighed new inflation data and Treasury yield moves.

Trump’s ‘roaring’ economy hits rough start with jobs, gas, markets

2026-03-09

President Donald Trump promised a strong 2026, but early economic indicators show job losses, higher gasoline prices and a drop in stock prices. In data reviewed this week by the Associated Press, February saw losses of 92,000 jobs and fuel costs jumped after attacks linked to Iran began late February.

West African cocoa farmers report pain from commodity’s recent crash

2026-03-09

Cocoa farmers in Ghana and Ivory Coast say a sharp decline in global cocoa prices has left beans rotting in warehouses and has pressured households to turn to other—often risky—ways to earn cash. In interviews, farmers described giving land over to illegal sand and gold mining after years of falling yields, while governments cut fixed cocoa prices to attract buyers.

January retail sales fall 0.2% as consumers pull back amid tariff uncertainty

2026-03-06

American consumers pulled back their spending in January, with retail sales falling 0.2% from December, the Commerce Department reported Friday in a release delayed 43 days by the government shutdown. The January figure came in below economists' expectations for a flat reading, following a flat December and extending a softening trend in consumer demand that began in late 2025.

Saks Global closes 15 more stores in bankruptcy, shrinking to 13 Saks Fifth Avenue locations

2026-03-06

Saks Global Inc. announced Friday it will close 12 more Saks Fifth Avenue stores and three additional Neiman Marcus locations as the luxury retailer trims its footprint during Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring. Among the stores set to close are sites in Chevy Chase, Maryland, Chicago, and San Antonio, Texas, with all locations remaining open through the end of May, a company spokesperson said.

SK Battery America lays off 958 workers at Georgia plant amid EV slowdown

2026-03-06

SK Battery America Inc. laid off 958 workers Friday at its Commerce, Georgia battery manufacturing plant, cutting about 37% of its workforce as automakers scaled back electric vehicle commitments and federal policy shifted away from electrification incentives. The layoffs, documented in a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification filing, take effect immediately; affected employees will receive pay through May 6. About 1,600 workers will remain at the Commerce facility.

Jobless claims held at 213,000, but continuing filings rise to 1.87 million

2026-03-05

The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits last week was unchanged at 213,000, a sign layoffs remain low, the Labor Department reported. But continuing claims for the prior week rose to 1.87 million, indicating more people are staying out of work while they search for new jobs.

US job market sheds 92,000 jobs in February as unemployment rises to 4.4%

2026-03-05

American employers unexpectedly cut 92,000 jobs last month, and the unemployment rate edged up to 4.4%, adding to economic uncertainty as the war with Iran drives up costs. The Labor Department’s jobs report also included revisions that reduced payroll totals for December and January.

Morgan Stanley to cut roughly 2,500 jobs across investment bank

2026-03-05

Morgan Stanley is laying off approximately 2,500 employees — about 3% of its global workforce — across the entirety of its investment bank, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke to the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the firm is not making a public statement about the cuts. The layoffs come as financial-sector job reductions continue two months into 2026, with Citigroup and BlackRock having reportedly trimmed their own headcounts in recent weeks.

Inflation concerns rise with U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran

2026-03-02

U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran have pushed up oil prices for a second straight day and lifted U.S. gas prices, raising fresh concerns that higher energy costs could worsen inflation and hurt economic growth. Economists said how long the conflict lasts—and whether shipping lanes such as the Strait of Hormuz are disrupted—could determine how severe the price effects become.

U.S. stocks fall as AI worries, higher inflation and Iran tensions hit

2026-02-28

U.S. stocks fell Friday as Wall Street weighed worries about AI disruption, a discouraging inflation update and possible conflict involving the United States and Iran. The S&P 500 dropped 0.4%, the Dow fell 1.1% and the Nasdaq composite lost 0.9%, while oil prices rose.

US wholesale prices run hotter; core rises faster, lifting inflation worry

2026-02-27

The Labor Department reported Friday that the producer price index for U.S. wholesale goods rose 0.5% from December and 2.9% from a year earlier. Economists had expected a smaller monthly increase and a lower year-over-year gain, with “core” wholesale prices also coming in above forecasts.

Nvidia’s worst day since last spring drags Wall Street lower

2026-02-27

Nvidia’s shares fell for their worst day since last spring, dragging U.S. markets lower on Thursday even as most other stocks rose. The S&P 500 slipped 0.5%, the Dow Jones added less than 0.1% and the Nasdaq fell 1.2%, after Nvidia posted profit growth and forecast-beating results.

Trump sells booming economy in State of the Union as polls stay gloomy

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump used his first State of the Union address to argue the economy is expanding, inflation is falling and jobs are rising. But fresh consumer-confidence and survey data released ahead of the speech—and other recent economic indicators—point to weaker public sentiment and lingering sticker-price pressure. The contrast left many Americans with a more guarded view than Trump’s “roaring” framing.

Slight uptick in US jobless claims; layoffs stay relatively healthy

2026-02-26

Slightly more Americans filed for unemployment benefits last week while layoffs remained in a relatively healthy range, the U.S. Labor Department reported. The number of people seeking jobless aid for the week ending Feb. 21 rose to 212,000, a modest increase from the prior week. The Labor Department also said the four-week average of claims ticked up.

Tech stocks lift Wall Street; Nvidia shares rise ahead of results

2026-02-26

U.S. stocks rose Wednesday, erasing losses for the week so far as Nvidia and other technology companies led gains on Wall Street. The S&P 500 climbed 0.8% for a second straight day after Monday’s drop, while the Dow rose 0.6% and the Nasdaq gained 1.3%.

IMF says U.S. economy is buoyant, but tariffs and debt raise risks

2026-02-25

In a report released Wednesday, the International Monetary Fund said the U.S. economy is “buoyant,” projecting faster growth and falling unemployment in 2026. The IMF also warned that tariff-driven trade restrictions could weigh on activity, and that rising federal debt poses a “growing stability risk.”

U.S. stocks rebound after AI deal optimism offsets earlier selloff

2026-02-25

U.S. stocks rose Tuesday after a reminder that the artificial-intelligence boom may also bring gains, helping them rebound from the prior day’s sharp drop. The S&P 500 climbed 0.8% and recovered nearly three-quarters of its previous decline, while the Dow added 370 points and the Nasdaq rose 1%.

Consumer confidence edges higher but weakness persists

2026-02-24

US consumer confidence improved slightly in February after collapsing the previous month, the Conference Board reported Tuesday, though Americans remain deeply anxious about their economic prospects as job growth stumbles and tariff uncertainty freezes business hiring.

Record trading surge shows retail investors are no longer 'dumb money'

2026-02-24

Individual investors accounted for $5.4 trillion in trading activity in 2025 across stocks and exchange-traded funds, a 47% increase from 2024, according to research firm Vanda. The total represents the most going back to at least 2014, upending years of Wall Street dismissal of retail traders as unsophisticated "dumb money." "I personally want to dispel the myth of retail being dumb money, because it's not dumb money anymore," said Joe Mazzola, head of trading and derivatives strategy at Charles Schwab.

US stocks slip as AI worries and Iran tension lift oil prices

2026-02-20

U.S. stocks fell Thursday as worries about how artificial intelligence could disrupt industries spread through Wall Street, while oil prices climbed on concerns about potential conflict between the United States and Iran. The S&P 500 slipped 0.3% for its first loss in four days, with the Dow down 0.5% and the Nasdaq down 0.3%.

US jobless claims drop to 206,000 as layoffs stay historically low

2026-02-20

U.S. applications for unemployment benefits fell last week to 206,000, the Labor Department reported, as weekly layoffs remained at historically low levels. The week ending Feb. 14 saw filings drop by 23,000 from the prior week and come in below economists’ expectations, according to the report. Officials also said the four-week moving average declined to 219,000.

Fourth-quarter GDP growth slows to 1.4% as shutdown drags economy

2026-02-20

U.S. economic growth slowed sharply in the fourth quarter, expanding at a 1.4% annual rate according to the Commerce Department, down dramatically from the 4.4% pace in the third quarter. A six-week federal government shutdown shaved roughly one percentage point from growth, while consumers pulled back on spending after months of borrowing to maintain their purchasing power.

World stocks mostly rise ahead of Lunar New Year; gold slips

2026-02-17

World shares mostly rose Monday while gold prices fell, as Asian markets closed or traded only briefly ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations. Japan’s Nikkei dropped after data showed the economy grew more slowly than economists expected in the latest October-December quarter, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rose in a half-day session. U.S. stock futures edged higher ahead of the Presidents Day holiday, with oil and the U.S. dollar also moving lower or higher, respectively.

Inflation falls to near five-year low as gas drops, rent cools

2026-02-16

WASHINGTON — A key measure of inflation fell to 2.4% in January from a year earlier, and core prices rose 2.5%, according to data released Friday. The report pointed to easing costs tied to apartment rents and lower gas prices, though many categories Americans spend on remain higher than they were five years ago.

Falling cocoa prices won’t necessarily lower Valentine’s chocolates

2026-02-16

Chocolate prices at U.S. retail stores rose during the first weeks of February despite cocoa prices falling nearly 70% since last Valentine’s Day, according to market research cited by the Associated Press. The prices consumers pay may stay elevated as manufacturers work through costs from earlier higher cocoa prices and adjust pricing to match demand and trading patterns, the report said.

Rising coffee costs push some Americans to give up café brews

2026-02-16

Coffee has been a daily ritual for some Americans for years, but higher prices are changing behavior—some are cutting café visits, switching to cheaper drinks, or skipping coffee altogether. In the United States, coffee prices rose 18.3% in January from a year earlier, according to the latest Consumer Price Index. The increase is prompting consumers to stretch budgets, including by buying home brews and making substitutes.

Wendy's to close hundreds of U.S. restaurants, emphasize everyday value

2026-02-14

Wendy’s said it is closing several hundred restaurants in the United States and increasing its focus on value after sales fell more than expected in the fourth quarter. The Dublin, Ohio-based chain reported that its global same-store sales dropped 10% in the October-December period, compared with an 8.5% decline expected by analysts polled by FactSet.

Jobless claims dip again, keeping US layoffs in a healthy range

2026-02-13

The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell last week to 227,000, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, keeping weekly layoffs within the historically healthy range of recent years. The Labor Department said filings for the week ending Feb. 7 dropped by 5,000 from the prior week. The government also reported that the four-week moving average of jobless claims rose.

Wall Street steadies after AI-linked selloff as inflation eases

2026-02-13

U.S. stocks steadied Friday after a report showed inflation slowed more than economists expected, easing some pressure on Wall Street that had been roiled by worries about artificial-intelligence disruption. The S&P 500 was little changed after its prior-session drop, while the Dow edged higher and the Nasdaq slipped.

Strong January hiring lifts unemployment to 4.3% after heavy 2024 cuts

2026-02-12

U.S. employers added 130,000 jobs in January, and the unemployment rate fell to 4.3%, the Labor Department said Wednesday, a sharp contrast with weak hiring in 2025. Government revisions also cut earlier payroll totals for 2024 and 2025 by hundreds of thousands, reshaping the picture of the labor market’s momentum.

Kraft Heinz pauses split plans, shifts focus to profitable growth

2026-02-12

Kraft Heinz said Wednesday it is pausing plans to split into two companies and will instead prioritize “profitable growth,” led by CEO Steve Cahillane. The change came as the company reported lower quarterly and annual results, with net sales down to $6.35 billion in the October-December period and net income falling 69.5%.

Value meals boost McDonald’s revenue and earnings beyond expectations

2026-02-12

McDonald’s reported stronger-than-expected sales for its Oct.-Dec. quarter, saying its focus on value and affordability helped win back customers. The company said global same-store sales rose 5.7% in the quarter, and fourth-quarter revenue and profit also topped analysts’ expectations.

U.S. stocks wobble after strong jobs report lifts hopes and rate worries

2026-02-12

U.S. stocks swung between gains and losses Wednesday after a stronger-than-expected jobs report showed unemployment improved last month, while bond yields stayed elevated. The S&P 500 finished down less than 0.1% after flipping from early gains to a small dip, as investors recalibrated expectations for when the Federal Reserve could begin cutting interest rates.

December retail sales flat in US, underscoring shaky consumer demand

2026-02-11

Shoppers’ spending paused in December, leaving retail sales unchanged from November and closing out the holiday season on a lackluster note, the U.S. Commerce Department reported. Economists said the snapshot surprised them as job growth cooled and uncertainty about tariffs mounted, raising questions about how much households will spend in 2026.

US stocks drift to a mixed finish as yields fall on shopper data

2026-02-11

Stocks on Wall Street drifted to a mixed finish on Tuesday as Treasury yields fell after a report showed retailers made less money than economists expected and shoppers spent roughly the same amount in December as in November. Investors also weighed mixed profit reports from big U.S. companies, with Hasbro rising while Coca-Cola and S&P Global fell.

Americans’ future optimism sinks to record low, Gallup finds

2026-02-11

Americans’ hope for their future fell to a record low in 2025, according to a Gallup poll released Feb. 10. The share of Americans who rate their life in about five years as “high” dropped to about 59%, the lowest annual measure since Gallup began asking the question nearly 20 years ago.

Nissan reports deeper quarterly loss, restructuring costs weigh on outlook

2026-02-11

Nissan reported a deeper loss for the October-December quarter through December than a year earlier, as restructuring costs weighed on profitability. The company said it posted a 28.3 billion yen ($185 million) loss for the quarter, while quarterly sales fell 6% to nearly 3 trillion yen.

Coca-Cola posts mixed fourth-quarter results as shares fall on outlook

2026-02-10

Coca-Cola reported stronger demand globally in the fourth quarter, but investors pushed the company’s shares lower on concerns about its outlook. The Atlanta-based company said global unit case volumes rose 1% for October-December, while it forecast organic revenue growth of 4% to 5% in 2026.

US governors focus on affordability in state addresses as prices bite

2026-02-10

In speeches to legislatures this month, governors across the U.S. have put affordability at the center of their agendas, citing worries from voters about the cost of groceries, utilities, child care and housing. The approaches range from relief checks and tax changes to efforts to expand housing and reduce electricity and gas bills.

U.S. stocks surge, Dow tops 50,000 as bitcoin stabilizes

2026-02-08

U.S. stocks jumped Friday as technology shares recovered and bitcoin stopped its slide, lifting the S&P 500 to its best day since May. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed above 50,000 for the first time as chipmakers surged.

Side jobs and “polyworking” gain currency as workers brace for layoffs

2026-02-08

Workers facing frozen pay, inflation and uncertainty about job security are turning to side jobs, “polyworking” and gig work to build backup income streams, an Associated Press report says. The article profiles people who have added second, third or even fourth jobs to manage expenses and hedge against layoffs.

U.S. job openings fall to lowest level in over 5 years

2026-02-06

US job openings fell to 6.5 million in December, the lowest level in more than five years, a sign that hiring remains sluggish even as overall economic growth stays strong. The Labor Department said vacancies declined from 6.9 million in November, while layoffs rose slightly and the number of people quitting their jobs held steady at 3.2 million.

Bitcoin plunges 11%, now worth less than before Trump’s second term

2026-02-06

Bitcoin fell another 11% to about $67,000 on Thursday and was trading at $66,301 by 2 p.m. ET, according to Coinbase data cited by the Associated Press. The drop marks the cryptocurrency’s value falling below levels seen before President Donald Trump’s second term began.

Falling tech stocks and bitcoin plunge hit Wall Street

2026-02-06

Wall Street fell sharply Thursday as technology shares slid and bitcoin sank again, while reports pointing to weakening U.S. hiring pushed bond yields lower. The S&P 500 logged its sixth loss in seven days after a quarterly earnings report from Qualcomm brought a warning tied to an industrywide memory shortage.

Bank of England holds rates at 3.75% as inflation nears 2% target

2026-02-05

The Bank of England kept its main interest rate unchanged at 3.75% on Thursday, even as inflation remained above its 2% target and the economy shows signs of improving. In a close vote on the nine-member Monetary Policy Committee, five members backed holding rates while four supported a quarter-point cut.

Amazon forecasts near-term sales as it plans big capital spending surge

2026-02-05

Amazon reported fourth-quarter revenue of $213.4 billion, up from $187.8 billion a year earlier, and forecast sales between $173.5 billion and $178.5 billion for the current quarter. Shares fell 11% in after-hours trading after the company said it plans to increase capital spending by nearly 60% to $200 billion from last year’s $128 billion, as investors grappled with the timing of returns amid only slightly below-expected profits.

Americans report high anxiety about politics and economy, Gallup poll

2026-02-05

The United States stands out in a new Gallup world poll for how many Americans—especially older residents—say politics and government are the top issue they face. The survey, conducted from March to October 2025, also finds that younger Americans are more likely than young people in many other wealthy countries to prioritize affordability and other economic concerns.

Higher-income households boosted spending faster than others, Fed New York says

2026-02-04

WASHINGTON — Higher-income Americans and those with college degrees have increased their spending faster than other consumers in the past three years, new data released by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shows, pointing to widening inequality. The New York Fed also found that in the final three months of last year, inflation was higher for lower-income and rural households than for higher-income households. The findings, released Tuesday, add detail to a growing “K-shaped” economy narrative, where upper-income consumers account for a larger share of consumption while lower-income households see smaller gains.

Tech stocks drag Wall Street lower as gold, silver bounce back

2026-02-04

Wall Street fell Tuesday as tech stocks led declines even as gold and silver prices rebounded after their latest sell-off, according to AP market reporting. The S&P 500 dropped 0.8%, the Dow slipped 0.3% and the Nasdaq fell 1.4%, while gold gained 6.1% and silver rose 8.2%. Also, several company results and deal announcements moved individual stocks.

US stocks rise as gold and silver extend declines

2026-02-03

U.S. stocks rose Monday after sharp overnight swings that included tumbles for Asian markets. The S&P 500 gained 0.5%, the Dow advanced 1.1% and the Nasdaq added 0.6% as precious-metals prices kept sliding.

Labor Department delays January jobs report amid partial shutdown

2026-02-03

The U.S. Labor Department said it will not release the January jobs report on Friday as scheduled because of the partial federal government shutdown. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also postponed a separate jobs data release covering job openings that was due Tuesday.

Disney first-quarter profit beats estimates as Zootopia 2, Avatar drive results

2026-02-03

Disney’s first-quarter profit topped analyst expectations as the company credited box-office performance from “Zootopia 2” and “Avatar: Fire and Ash.” The Walt Disney Co. also warned that modest operating income growth is expected in its Experiences business during the second quarter, citing weaker international tourism to the United States.

Starbucks feels the heat as more chains compete for U.S. coffee drinkers

2026-02-02

Starbucks is losing ground in U.S. coffee-shop spending as rivals expand and new chains, including drive-thru-focused operators, compete for drinkers. According to Technomic, Starbucks’ share fell to 48% in 2024 and 2025, down from 52% in 2023. At an investor conference, Starbucks executives said efforts to improve service and add more seating are aimed at boosting traffic as competition intensifies.

Is the Las Vegas buffet dead?

2026-02-02

Las Vegas buffets have shifted from low-cost, quick meals to higher-priced “luxury” dining as longtime properties closed or transformed during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The change reflects rising costs, evolving tastes and the city’s rise as a foodie destination, several longtime visitors and local food experts said.

Vegas Strip struggles in 2025 as visitors fall, locals and airport steady

2026-01-30

Las Vegas saw its fewest visitors in four years in 2025, as the Strip’s gaming revenue rose less than 1% and tourism was pressured by economic and travel disruptions. The figures were released this week, and officials and analysts said the market is now looking past the year amid plans for trade shows and convention demand.

Wall Street closes near where it began after Microsoft, gold swings

2026-01-30

New York stocks finished nearly where they started Thursday after a day of sharp swings, with the S&P 500 down 0.1% and the Nasdaq down 0.7%. Microsoft fell 10% after results that beat expectations, while gold briefly dropped below $5,200 after earlier trading near $5,600 an ounce.

Jobless claims tick down to 209,000 as layoffs stay low

2026-01-29

U.S. applications for unemployment benefits for the week ending Jan. 24 fell by 1,000 to 209,000, the Labor Department reported Thursday, a proxy for layoffs that remains in a historically healthy range. The four-week average of jobless claims rose by 2,250 to 206,250, while the total number of Americans filing for benefits the prior week dropped to 1.83 million, the fewest since Sept. 21, 2024.

Amazon to cut about 16,000 corporate jobs, citing AI and reorganizations

2026-01-29

Amazon will cut about 16,000 corporate jobs in a second round of layoffs announced Wednesday, about three months after it announced cuts of 14,000 workers. The company said it expects U.S.-based staff to be given 90 days to seek internal roles, and that those who do not secure positions will receive severance pay, outplacement services and health insurance benefits.

Layoffs pile up as job market stagnates, fueling worker anxiety

2026-01-29

Workers across the U.S. are reporting increased anxiety as more companies announce job cuts and hiring remains weak amid economic uncertainty. The job market added only about 50,000 jobs in the latest month cited by economists in this story, down from a revised 56,000 the prior month. Employers attributed some layoffs to rising costs, including tariffs, persistent inflation and shifting consumer spending, while others pointed to restructuring that includes artificial intelligence.

Amazon cuts 16,000 corporate jobs in second layoff round

2026-01-28

Amazon is cutting 16,000 corporate jobs in the second round of mass layoffs in three months, the company announced Wednesday. The cuts represent Amazon's biggest layoff since 2023, when it cut 27,000 workers. CEO Andy Jassy is pushing to reduce organizational layers and use artificial intelligence to replace some workers. U.S.-based employees have 90 days to find new positions internally or will receive severance pay, outplacement services and health insurance benefits.

Layoffs accelerate across corporations as hiring stalls nationwide

2026-01-28

Major corporations are cutting tens of thousands of jobs, intensifying worker anxiety in a labor market that has nearly ground to a halt. Amazon announced Wednesday it would eliminate 16,000 corporate positions in its second major round of cuts within three months. United Parcel Service said Tuesday it plans to cut as many as 30,000 operational jobs this year. Verizon, Intel, HP, Dow, and dozens of other firms have announced similar reductions.

U.S. consumer confidence falls to lowest level since 2014

2026-01-28

Americans’ consumer confidence in the U.S. economy fell sharply in January to its lowest level since 2014, the Conference Board reported. The index dropped 9.7 points to 84.5 as concerns grew about both the present situation and short-term expectations for the job market and income.

US stocks stay near records as dollar stabilizes and gold hits new high

2026-01-27

Wall Street traded mostly flat Wednesday after the Federal Reserve held its main interest rate steady as investors expected, while the dollar stabilized following a recent slide. The S&P 500 stayed near its all-time high and the Dow and Nasdaq posted small gains, as gold surged to another record. In his remarks on CNBC, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the U.S. government is not intervening in the currency market and continues to want a “strong dollar.”

Holiday drinks and viral bear cup lift Starbucks sales, CEO says

2026-01-27

Starbucks reported fiscal first-quarter results that topped Wall Street expectations as holiday beverages and a viral “Bearista” cup helped boost demand. Same-store sales rose 4% for the October-December period, and Starbucks’ revenue increased to $9.9 billion, the company said Thursday.

Consumer confidence collapses to lowest level since 2014

2026-01-27

U.S. consumer confidence plummeted to a 12-year low in January as Americans grew increasingly concerned about their financial futures. The Conference Board reported Tuesday that its consumer confidence index fell 9.7 points to 84.5, the lowest reading since May 2014 and below the depressed levels recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic.

S&P 500 edges to record as earnings disappoint and dollar weakens

2026-01-27

Wall Street reached a new all-time high on Tuesday despite mixed corporate earnings and a sliding U.S. dollar that hit its lowest point since 2022, reflecting divergent signals about the economic outlook. The S&P 500 rose 0.4% to 6,978.60, edging past its previous record set weeks earlier, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.8% and the Nasdaq composite climbed 0.9%.

Gold hits record as stocks climb amid tariff concerns

2026-01-26

U.S. stock indexes rose on Monday, January 26, as gold surged past $5,100 per ounce for the first time, reflecting investor moves toward safer assets. The S&P 500 climbed 0.5%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.6%, and the Nasdaq composite gained 0.4%. The divergence between stocks and precious metals underscored mounting anxiety about potential tariffs and persistent economic uncertainty.

Wall Street ends flat as Intel plunges, gold climbs to record

2026-01-23

The U.S. stock market drifted through mixed trading Friday as tariff relief and falling inflation expectations offered brief respite from a volatile week. The S&P 500 edged up less than 0.1%, notching a second straight week with modest losses. The Nasdaq composite rose 0.3%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 285 points, or 0.6%. Chip company Intel weighed on the market, tumbling 17% after reporting better fourth-quarter results than expected but issuing a first-quarter forecast that fell short of Wall Street's expectations. Gold, meanwhile, set another record, nearing $5,000 per ounce — a signal of investor nervousness despite the week's market steadying.

Saks Global bankruptcy filing leaves suppliers unpaid, Amazon objects

2026-01-23

Saks Global, parent company of Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus, filed for bankruptcy protection this week, leaving suppliers with unpaid bills ranging from $600,000 to $10 million and prompting Amazon, a minority investor, to challenge the company's proposed financing plan. The filing came roughly a year after Saks Global acquired Neiman Marcus for $2.65 billion, a deal that left the merged company heavily indebted at a time when luxury spending has slowed.

U.S. economy grows 4.4% in third quarter, fastest pace in two years

2026-01-22

The U.S. economy expanded at a 4.4% annual pace in the third quarter, the fastest growth rate in two years, the Commerce Department said Thursday. Consumer spending, which accounts for 70% of U.S. GDP, grew 3.5%, with services spending rising 3.6% and goods spending up 3%. The third-quarter growth was faster than the government's initial estimate of 4.3%.

CSX profit falls 2% in fourth quarter as demand weakens

2026-01-22

CSX's fourth-quarter profit fell 2% to $720 million as weak shipping demand and severance costs from recent layoffs pressured results, the Jacksonville-based railroad said Thursday. The carrier earned 39 cents per share, up from 38 cents the year before, though results faced about $50 million in one-time costs tied to CEO Steve Angel's workforce reductions last fall.

U.S. stocks rise as Trump backs off Greenland tariff threat

2026-01-22

President Donald Trump's reversal on threatened tariffs sent U.S. stocks higher for a second consecutive day Thursday, building on Wednesday's gains. Trump said he reached 'the framework of a future deal' on Greenland with the head of NATO and withdrew 10% tariffs he had threatened on European countries. The S&P 500 gained 0.5%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.6%, and the Nasdaq composite advanced 0.9%.

Inflation rises to 2.8% in November as consumer spending holds strong

2026-01-22

Consumer prices rose 2.8% in November from a year earlier, according to the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge, while consumer spending climbed 0.5% during the month. The data points to a mostly strong economy with inflation still elevated above the Fed's 2% target but sharply down from the four-decade peak of June 2022.

Poll: About half of AAPI adults name inflation top priority as government confidence drops

2026-01-22

About half of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander adults said they want the government to prioritize the high cost of living and inflation — a share roughly 15 percentage points higher than for U.S. adults overall — according to a poll released Thursday by AAPI Data and the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. The survey of 1,029 AAPI adults, conducted in early December, also found that cost anxiety within this community has grown since the previous year.

S&P 500 recovers half its losses as Trump backs off Greenland tariffs

2026-01-21

The U.S. stock market bounced back Wednesday after President Donald Trump announced a framework for a deal on Greenland and said he would not impose tariffs on eight European countries he had previously threatened. The S&P 500 rallied 1.2%, recovering just over half of Tuesday's 2.1% plunge as investors reassessed the likelihood of Trump's tariff threats translating into actual policy.

US jobless claims rise slightly while layoffs stay historically low

2026-01-21

The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits edged up last week, but U.S. layoffs remained historically low despite signs of labor-market softening. Jobless claims for the week ending Jan. 17 rose to 200,000, according to the Labor Department.

November inflation gauge ticks up as U.S. spending stays brisk

2026-01-21

The Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge rose in November, adding to signs that prices remain elevated, even as consumer spending increased, the Commerce Department said. Consumer prices rose 2.8% in November from a year earlier, while spending climbed 0.5% from the prior month. The report was issued as the Federal Reserve prepares to meet next week.

Trump oil-price pledge could disrupt Texas output and local tax revenue

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump has pledged to lower oil prices to $50 a barrel, an idea Texas industry and economists say could reduce drilling activity and affect jobs and local tax revenue. The promise comes as Texas’ oil and gas sector rebounded in recent years, after COVID-19-era price declines.

Netflix earnings beat estimates but subscriber growth plummets

2026-01-20

Netflix reported fourth-quarter 2025 earnings Tuesday that beat analyst expectations on profit and revenue, but the company's subscriber growth dramatically slowed, adding about 23 million customers last year—far fewer than the 41 million it added in 2024 and a sign that growth in the world's largest streaming service may be plateauing.

IMF raises 2026 global growth forecast to 3.3%, citing AI investment surge

2026-01-19

The International Monetary Fund raised its 2026 global growth forecast to 3.3% on Monday, matching last year's pace and exceeding its October projection of 3.1%, as a surge of artificial intelligence investment in North America and Asia helped the world economy absorb US-led trade disruptions. The fund said the upgrade reflected an unexpectedly sturdy global expansion that has so far outrun the drag from protectionist trade policies.

Poll finds about 4 in 10 approve of Trump as economy concerns grow

2026-01-16

An AP-NORC poll finds about 4 in 10 U.S. adults approve of President Donald Trump’s performance in his second term, a figure that is virtually unchanged from spring 2025. The survey also shows lower approval for Trump on the economy and immigration, while a majority disapproves of his approach to foreign policy.

S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq each post weekly losses near record levels

2026-01-16

Major U.S. stock indexes closed slightly lower on Friday, ending a week of modest declines just below record territory. The S&P 500 fell 0.1% to 6,940.01, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.2% to 49,359.33, and the Nasdaq composite declined 0.1% to 23,515.39, according to the Associated Press. Each index posted a net loss for the week.

Poll: Republicans back Trump's immigration record but say economy hasn't delivered

2026-01-16

Nearly a year into President Donald Trump's second term, Republican voters express strong support for his immigration enforcement but say his economic performance — particularly on the cost of living — has fallen well short of expectations, according to an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll released Thursday. The survey, conducted Jan. 8–11 among 1,203 adults nationwide, found that only 16% of Republicans say Trump has helped "a lot" in addressing the cost of living during his current term. In an April 2024 AP-NORC poll, 49% of Republicans said the same about his first-term record on the same question. On immigration, about eight in ten Republicans say Trump has helped "at least a little" on immigration and border security — a level roughly comparable to their assessment of his first-term performance on the issue.

EVs no longer get the spotlight at Detroit auto show as companies hedge

2026-01-16

The North American International Auto Show in Detroit opened this year with EV-focused tracks that have since been widened to hybrids and gas-powered vehicles, signaling a retreat from all-electric emphasis in the U.S. market. Organizers and executives said the change reflects what they see as shifting industry priorities and “consumer choice.”

Wall Street steadies as chip stocks rebound and oil prices fall

2026-01-16

Wall Street steadied on Thursday as chip stocks linked to the artificial-intelligence boom rebounded and oil prices eased sharply. The S&P 500 rose 0.3% and ended a two-day losing streak, while the Dow gained 292 points and the Nasdaq added 0.2%.

Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley post double-digit profit gains on deal surge

2026-01-15

NEW YORK — Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley reported double-digit fourth-quarter profit increases Wednesday, as a rising stock market and a rebound in corporate deal-making drove strong results at both Wall Street investment banks. Goldman Sachs posted net earnings of $4.62 billion, or $14.01 per share, a 12% increase from a year earlier. Morgan Stanley earned $4.4 billion, or $2.68 per share, compared with $3.71 billion, or $2.22 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Jobless claims fall to 198,000, beating forecasts as low-hire trend holds

2026-01-15

Fewer Americans filed for unemployment benefits last week as layoffs remain subdued, the Labor Department reported Thursday. Initial jobless claims for the week ending Jan. 10 fell by 9,000 to 198,000 — well below the 215,000 that analysts polled by FactSet had forecast and down from 207,000 the prior week.

Wall Street steadies as chip stocks rebound and oil prices retreat

2026-01-15

Wall Street snapped a two-day losing streak Thursday as a stronger-than-expected earnings report from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. lifted chip and artificial-intelligence stocks, while oil prices fell sharply after President Donald Trump said executions in Iran appeared to have stopped amid widespread protests. The S&P 500 rose 0.3% to close at 6,944.47, the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 292.81 points, or 0.6%, to 49,442.44, and the Nasdaq composite added 0.2% to 23,530.02, according to the Associated Press.

November retail sales rise 0.6% as holiday spending tops expectations

2026-01-14

U.S. retail sales rose 0.6% in November from the prior month, the Commerce Department reported Wednesday, beating expectations and signaling that holiday spending accelerated after a revised 0.1% decline in October. Year-over-year, retail and food-service sales were up 3.3%, according to Commerce Department data. The report arrived more than a month late, delayed by the 43-day federal government shutdown that stalled several economic data releases.

November wholesale prices up 0.2% in report delayed by federal shutdown

2026-01-14

The Labor Department on Wednesday released a months-delayed report showing U.S. wholesale prices rose a modest 0.2% in November from October and 3% from a year earlier, the agency said, completing the first of several economic data releases that last fall's 43-day federal government shutdown pushed past their scheduled dates. The November producer price index was originally scheduled for December 11.

Bank earnings and tech pressure pull S&P 500 lower for second straight session

2026-01-14

The S&P 500 fell for the second consecutive session Wednesday, dropping 0.5% as earnings reports from major banks disappointed investors and technology stocks retreated from recent highs tied to the artificial-intelligence frenzy. All told, the S&P 500 lost 37.14 points to close at 6,926.60. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 42.36 points, or 0.1%, to 49,149.63. The Nasdaq composite fell 238.12 points, or about 1%, to 23,471.75.

Big banks post higher profits, while Trump presses 10% credit cap

2026-01-14

Bank of America, Citigroup and Wells Fargo reported higher profits and said consumers and businesses are showing resilience, even as they clash with President Donald Trump over his push to cap credit-card interest rates at 10%. In their latest earnings reporting, bank executives said they are willing to work with the administration on affordability, but warned that a rate cap would restrict credit—especially for borrowers who rely on it.

JPMorgan Chase Q4 profits rise 9% on adjusted basis as Apple Card deal weighs on results

2026-01-13

JPMorgan Chase reported Tuesday that fourth-quarter net income rose 9% on an adjusted basis, beating analyst expectations despite a one-time $2.2 billion loan-loss reserve charge tied to its purchase of the Apple Card portfolio from Goldman Sachs. The bank earned $13.03 billion, or $4.63 per share, for the quarter, with adjusted earnings of $5.23 per share exceeding the $4.85 consensus analyst estimate, according to FactSet.

Wall Street slips as bank and big tech stocks fall, oil rises

2026-01-13

Wall Street closed lower Wednesday as losses at several banks and big technology companies pulled major indexes down, even as more individual stocks rose than fell. The S&P 500 slipped 0.5% for a second straight decline after setting an all-time high.

Big banks post higher profits as Trump weighs credit card rate cap

2026-01-13

NEW YORK — Bank of America, Citigroup and Wells Fargo reported higher profits and steady consumer activity this week, even as their leaders warn that President Donald Trump’s push for a 10% credit card interest rate cap would squeeze access to credit. The banks’ executives said they are not seeing evidence of a widening divide in consumer outcomes as they navigate growing tensions with the White House.

Aldi expands with higher prices squeezing Americans’ grocery budgets

2026-01-12

Bargain grocer Aldi said it will open more than 180 new stores in the United States this year as more Americans cook at home and trade down amid higher grocery and electricity prices. Food inflation has slowed but remains elevated, with U.S. grocery prices up 2.4% last year and up about 25% since the pandemic, according to U.S. data.

Wall Street edges back from record levels as JPMorgan and Delta start earnings

2026-01-12

Wall Street pulled back from record levels on Tuesday after JPMorgan Chase reported weaker profit and revenue than analysts expected and Delta Air Lines forecasted more modest results. The S&P 500 fell 0.2%, while the Nasdaq slipped to 23,709.87 as Treasury yields eased on inflation data near economists’ expectations.

U.S. adds 50,000 jobs in December; 2025 posts weakest hiring since pandemic

2026-01-09

Washington — U.S. employers added just 50,000 jobs in December, the Labor Department reported Friday, capping a year in which the economy created only 584,000 positions — the fewest since the COVID-19 pandemic decimated the labor market in 2020 and the smallest annual gain outside a recession since 2003. The unemployment rate edged down to 4.4%, its first decline since June.

Weekly jobless claims rise to 208,000 as labor market momentum slows

2026-01-08

Initial filings for unemployment benefits rose by 8,000 to 208,000 for the week ending Jan. 3, the Labor Department reported Thursday, arriving in line with analyst expectations as the U.S. labor market continued to show slowing momentum. Outright layoffs remain historically low, but hiring has faltered sharply since spring, weighed down by uncertainty over President Donald Trump's tariffs and the lingering effects of elevated interest rates.

Defense stocks surge on Trump military spending pledge as Wall Street drifts

2026-01-08

Defense contractors posted sharp gains Thursday after President Donald Trump announced plans to raise U.S. military spending to $1.5 trillion in 2027, while the broader market moved in a narrow range amid mixed economic data. The S&P 500 added less than a point to close at 6,921.46 — remaining near its all-time high set earlier in the week — while the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 270 points and the Nasdaq composite fell 104 points to 23,480.02.

Wall Street hits records after unemployment rate improves

2026-01-08

U.S. stocks rose to record levels on Friday after a mixed jobs report showed employers hired fewer workers during December than expected but left the unemployment rate lower than economists projected. The S&P 500 climbed 0.6%, the Dow rose 0.5% and the Nasdaq gained 0.8%, while investors reassessed expectations for the Federal Reserve’s next interest-rate move.

Wall Street rally stalls as Trump posts drag homebuilders; oil falls on Venezuela

2026-01-07

Wall Street's four-day winning streak ended Wednesday as the S&P 500 slipped from its latest record, with homebuilder and real-estate stocks leading declines after President Donald Trump posted social media comments targeting institutional home buyers, while crude oil prices fell after Trump announced a Venezuelan oil supply deal.

Job openings near 5-year low in November as low-hire, low-fire market persists

2026-01-07

U.S. employers posted 7.1 million job openings at the end of November, down from 7.4 million in October and the lowest tally since September 2024, the Labor Department said Wednesday. Outside that month, it was the lowest in nearly five years. Layoffs also fell, indicating companies are holding onto workers even as they remain reluctant to expand payrolls.

Budget office expects Fed to cut short-term rates in 2026

2026-01-07

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said Thursday it expects the Federal Reserve to cut short-term interest rates in 2026, even as the yield on 10-year Treasury notes rises gradually through 2028. The CBO forecast also projects the unemployment rate will peak in 2026 before easing by 2028, and it projects inflation will remain above the Fed’s 2% target in the near term.

Jobless claims tick up at end of 2025, layoffs stay low

2026-01-07

U.S. applications for jobless benefits rose in the last week of 2025, but layoffs remained low, according to Labor Department data. For the week ending Jan. 3, claims increased by 8,000 to 208,000, the department reported Thursday.

On-duty officer deaths fall 25% in 2025; firearm fatalities hit decade low

2026-01-06

Deaths of on-duty law enforcement officers in the United States fell nearly 25% in 2025, according to an annual report from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Total fatalities dropped from 148 in 2024 to 111 last year, with declines recorded across all major categories. The report was shared with the Associated Press ahead of its release Tuesday.

S&P 500 hits record on third trading day as Big Tech leads broad gains

2026-01-06

Technology stocks pushed Wall Street to fresh records Tuesday, with the S&P 500 closing at 6,944.82 — a gain of 0.6% on only the third trading day of 2026. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 484.90 points, or 1%, to 49,462.08, its second consecutive record close. Roughly three out of every four S&P 500 stocks advanced, extending gains across health care, retail, and industrial sectors.

Wall Street’s strong start slows as Trump, Venezuela, Fed signals weigh

2026-01-06

Wall Street’s strong start to the year lost momentum Wednesday as major stock indexes slid, Treasury yields moved on mixed economic reports, and oil prices fell after President Donald Trump said Venezuela would supply U.S. needs. The S&P 500 slipped 0.3% from its latest all-time high, while the Dow fell 466 points, or 0.9%. The Nasdaq composite rose 0.2%.

US stocks edge higher in a wobbly start to 2026

2026-01-04

U.S. stocks eked out small gains on Wall Street Friday to kick off 2026, with markets mostly quiet after New Year’s Day. Technology stocks drove much of the up-and-down action as investors looked ahead to a busy week of economic data and Fed updates.

US economy grew in 2025 but hiring lagged as tariffs and AI curbed job gains

2026-01-04

The U.S. economy expanded at its fastest quarterly pace in two years during 2025, yet job growth fell badly short of that performance as companies pulled back on hiring amid tariff uncertainty and the rapid spread of artificial intelligence, the Associated Press reported. The unemployment rate climbed from 4 percent in January to 4.6 percent by November — its highest level in four years — even as GDP grew at a 4.3 percent annual rate in the third quarter. The economy shed jobs outright in three separate months.

US stocks edge higher in a wobbly start to 2026

2026-01-03

U.S. stocks eked out small gains on Wall Street Friday to kick off the new year, with the technology sector driving much of the up-and-down action. Markets were mostly quiet on the first trading day of 2026, capping a holiday-shortened week after they were closed for New Year’s Day. The S&P 500 rose to 6,858.47, while the Dow gained and the Nasdaq slipped.

Economy of 2025 in five charts: hiring lag, sticky inflation as 2026 starts

2026-01-03

Americans ended 2025 with a mix of solid growth and weaker hiring, with inflation still above the Federal Reserve’s goal as unemployment rose, according to an Associated Press analysis. The AP piece also points to disruptions from a six-week government shutdown last fall that clouded economic data as the year closed. It highlights questions for 2026, including whether growth can translate into better jobs and whether artificial intelligence could drive what some economists call a “jobless expansion.”

Neither tariffs nor AI bubble fears could stop Wall Street in 2025

2026-01-03

In 2025, U.S. stocks delivered nearly 18% returns for index funds tied to the S&P 500, setting a record high on Dec. 24. The gains came after the market endured sharp drops tied to President Donald Trump’s tariff announcements and investor worries about interest rates and artificial-intelligence valuations.

US stocks edge higher in a wobbly start to 2026

2026-01-01

U.S. stocks eked out small gains on the first trading day of 2026, with the S&P 500 rising 0.2% to 6,858.47 and the Dow climbing 0.7% to 48,382.39. Trading was described as “mostly quiet” after markets closed Thursday for New Year’s Day.

Most major U.S. retailers open New Year's Day as banks and government close

2026-01-01

Most major U.S. retailers will be open on New Year's Day, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, while government offices, courts, post offices, banks, and stock markets will remain closed for the federal holiday, the Associated Press reported. Hours vary by location, and shoppers should verify schedules with their local stores before heading out.

Neither tariffs nor AI bubble fears could stop Wall Street in 2025

2026-01-01

US stocks rose again in 2025 after investors weathered swings tied to tariffs and pressure on the Federal Reserve, Associated Press reported. For investors with diversified stock exposure, the year ended with strong gains, even as markets periodically reeled from trade and interest-rate concerns.

Thrifting picks up and returns dip as shoppers look for post-Christmas deals

2025-12-30

Holiday shopping leading into the week after Christmas showed early signs of weaker traditional gift-giving and a shift toward thrift stores, alongside fewer returns so far, according to data analyzed by Visa and Mastercard, Placer.ai and Adobe Analytics. The trends are unfolding as some Americans express unease about the U.S. economy and as higher prices tied to President Donald Trump’s tariffs alter buying behavior.

Workers and unions push for the right to sit down on the job

2025-02-20

Retail workers and labor unions across the United States are pushing employers and legislatures to guarantee workers the right to sit down during work, citing documented health risks from prolonged standing. The effort spans contract negotiations at major retailers and new local and state laws, reflecting a shift in how worker advocates frame occupational safety.