Latest Business News
US Stocks Rise Entering Holiday-Shortened Week
Wall Street stocks advanced Monday with the S&P 500 up 0.6%, led by tech and banks like Nvidia (1.3%) and JPMorgan (1.6%). Uber and Lyft gained on robotaxi plans for London next year. Markets eye Santa Claus rally amid positive tech sentiment.
PCE Inflation and Key Economic Data This Week
Core PCE Price Index releases Monday, potentially validating rate cuts for 2026 if below forecasts. US GDP final Q3 revision Tuesday, alongside durable goods and consumer confidence. Markets close early Wednesday, fully Thursday for Christmas.
Gold and Silver Hit Record Highs Amid Tensions
Gold rose 1.9% to around $4,470/oz and silver up 1.5% due to geopolitical risks. US Coast Guard pursues sanctioned oil tanker in Caribbean, boosting commodities. Escalating Venezuela blockade contributes to gains.
Oil Prices Jump on US Pursuit of Venezuelan Tankers
US crude rose 2.5%, Brent 2.6% as Trump intensifies Venezuela blockade with forces boarding one tanker and chasing another. Adds to holiday week volatility with inventories data Wednesday.
Publicis Media Secures Kenvue's $1.3B Global Business
Kenvue awarded Publicis Media its $1.35B global media, commerce, and Neutrogena creative after review. WPP leads creative for other brands like Tylenol and Listerine. Replaces incumbents including Interpublic and Omnicom agencies.
Trump's Tariffs Transform Global Supply Chains in 2025
April's 10% global tariff plus country-specific up to 49% sparked negotiations and retaliation. Deals struck with EU, Japan, South Korea; impacts ongoing for trade partners.
Union Pacific Plans $85B Merger with Norfolk Southern
Railroads aim for first transcontinental network by 2027 to boost efficiency, but faces concerns over rates and competition. Sent shockwaves through supply chains upon July announcement.
Fujifilm Completes Major Bio CDMO Facility in Japan
FUJIFILM finished one of Japan's largest bio contract development and manufacturing plants in Toyama. Enhances biopharma production capabilities announced December 23.
Clearwater Analytics Acquired for $8.4B by PE Firms
Permira and Warburg Pincus to buy investment accounting software maker Clearwater in $8.4B deal excluding debt. Shares surged over 7% premarket on news.
Uber, Lyft Advance Robotaxi Trials in UK with BYD
Uber and Lyft partnering with BYD for robotaxi services in London starting next year. Shares rose 1.5-2.5% on announcement amid broader market gains.
Congress Pushes for Tariff Protest Readiness
Over 20 lawmakers urged Treasury and DHS to prepare for Supreme Court challenges to IEEPA tariffs, seeking expedited refunds. No new UFLPA entities since January.
US Advances Critical Minerals Supply Chain
Energy Dept. allocates $1B for mining and processing; Trump signs deals with Japan, Australia. Clarios invests $1B in US plant for battery minerals.