Latest Business News
S&P 500 2026 Forecasts Predict Continued Rally
Wall Street analysts project the S&P 500 to grow in 2026, with targets from 7,100 (Bank of America) to 8,000, driven by AI boom in tech giants like NVIDIA and Microsoft. Fed rate cuts and strong US economic growth fuel optimism, though high valuations and geopolitical risks warrant caution.
Recession probability remains low at 20% per Yardeni Research.
Trump Media Announces $6 Billion Merger
Trump Media has announced a major $6 billion merger deal. This development marks a significant expansion for the company in the media sector.
Details on partners and timeline are emerging amid market interest.
Saks CEO Steps Down Amid Luxury Retail Debt Struggles
Saks Global Enterprises CEO Marc Metrick stepped down effective immediately as the luxury retailer grapples with heavy debt. The company operates Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.
This leadership change comes during ongoing financial pressures in the sector.
Berkshire Hathaway Enters New Era as Warren Buffett Steps Back
Greg Abel takes over from legendary investor Warren Buffett at Berkshire Hathaway this week. The transition marks a pivotal moment for the conglomerate.
Investors watch closely for continuity in strategy and performance.
China Factory Activity Expands for First Time in Eight Months
Chinese factory activity picked up in December as orders rebounded ahead of holidays and construction rushed projects. Surveys indicate expansion after months of contraction.
This signals potential stabilization in manufacturing.
China Vanke Narrowly Avoids Default on $284 Million Debt
China Vanke, once China's largest homebuilder, avoided defaulting on $284 million debt amid a slow property recovery. The incident exposes fragility in the sector.
Broader property slump continues to weigh on the economy.
Stock Market Ends 2025 with Double-Digit Gains
US stock markets closed 2025 with strong double-digit gains despite economic concerns. The rally reflects resilience in equities.
Holiday shopping data revealed underlying consumer strength.
US Economy Grew More Than Expected in Q3 2025
The US economy expanded beyond forecasts in the third quarter, defying sluggish labor market worries. Growth outperformed amid strained consumer spending.
This bolsters outlook for 2026.
Iranian Traders Protest as Currency Hits Record Low
Shopkeepers in Iran staged protests for a second day after the rial hit a new record low against the USD. Currency woes fuel economic discontent.
Traders demand government intervention.
South Korea's Coal Reduction Pledge Clashes with US LNG Push
South Korea aims for a coal-free future to cut emissions, conflicting with US pressure for LNG imports. The nation balances climate goals and energy needs.
This highlights global energy tensions.
Channel Tunnel Disruption Impacts Eurostar Services
Power issues and a stuck train halted rail traffic through the Channel Tunnel between UK and France. Eurostar and vehicle shuttles affected.
Services face ongoing delays.