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  • Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq close higher as Nvidia pops, Google slides


    US stocks recovered from losses on Wednesday to close higher on the day. Earnings from Alphabet (GOOG, GOOGL) and AMD (AMD) fell short, but Big Tech got a boost from a jump in Nvidia (NVDA) shares.

    The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) rose 0.2%, while the benchmark S&P 500 (^GSPC) added 0.4%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) led the gains, rising 0.7%, or more than 300 points.

    Alphabet’s stock was under pressure, down nearly 7%, after fourth quarter cloud revenue undershot estimates. The miss rattled investors concerned that the Google parent’s hefty spending on AI won’t see the hoped-for payoff any time soon.

    Nvidia appears to be one potential beneficiary from that spending, however. It helped lead the major indexes’ charge back from the red, rising more than 5%.

    Meanwhile, the 10-year Treasury yield (^TNX) fell nine basis points to hit 4.42%, its lowest level since December 2024.

    AMD’s earnings provided another salvo in mixed sentiments around the AI trade. While the chipmaker posted a quarterly revenue beat, a disappointing data-center sales forecast raised worries about a loss of AI momentum. AMD shares tumbled over 6%.

    Big Tech names like Alphabet are also getting caught up in the tariff tit-for-tat between the US and China, which Wall Street sees as a risk for tech and chip names alike. Apple (AAPL) shares dropped about 2% before recovering after a Bloomberg report that Beijing is looking into targeting its app store in an antitrust probe.

    President Donald Trump’s tariff plans have markets already jumpy, and his unexpected suggestion late Tuesday that the US could take over the Gaza strip and develop it as a “Riviera of the Middle East” left investors even more bemused about which direction policy will take next.

    LIVE 22 updates

    •  Josh Schafer

      Ford beats on Q4 results but issues muted 2025 guidance

      Yahoo Finance’s Pras Subramanian reports:

      Ford (F) reported a fourth quarter earnings and revenue beat, with full-year profit coming in slightly higher than expected, but the company issued muted full-year guidance. The results come after rival GM (GM) reported strong results but declined to return more cash to shareholders.

      Ford said it sees full-year 2025 adjusted EBIT of $7.0 billion to $8.5 billion, and $3.5 billion to $4.5 billion in adjusted free cash flow. Ford said the guidance “presumes headwinds related to market factors,” such as pricing, though that does not include changes in policy like the potential loss of EV tax credits or tariffs. CFO Sherry House added in a call with reporters that a 25% tariff on imports “would have a major impact on our industry.”

      Shares were down nearly 5% after hours following the release. Read more here.

    •  Josh Schafer

      Interest rate sensitive sectors lead as yields fall

      The 10-year Treasury yield (^TNX) fell 9 basis points to hit 4.42%, its lowest level since December 2024, on Wednesday.

      interest rate sensitive areas of the market rallied in reaction. Real Estate (XLRE) led the sector action on Wednesday, rising nearly 1.6%, while the small-cap Russell 2000 index (^RUT), which had come under pressure as bond yields rose, added nearly 1% on the day.

    • Laura Bratton

      MicroStrategy rebrands as Strategy

      MicroStrategy (MSTR) announced a splashy rebrand Wednesday that underscored its commitment to its cryptocurrency strategy.

      The company said it will now do business under the name Strategy and changed its logo to a bitcoin symbol. In its announcement, Strategy said it is “the world’s first and largest Bitcoin Treasury Company.”

      Shares of the company were down about 2% on Wednesday and were little changed after the midday announcement. Year to date, the stock is up 17% against bitcoin’s more modest 1% gain.

      Once a small software firm, MicroStrategy is now the world’s largest bitcoin holding company, and its spending spree on the cryptocurrency has seen the stock outperform bitcoin handily over the last five years.

      Read the full story here.

    •  Josh Schafer

      Fed officials say they won’t be rushed amid the Trump tariff turmoil

      Yahoo Finance’s Jennifer Schonberger reports:

      Federal Reserve officials appear to have a unified message this week on the question of how they are reacting to President Donald Trump’s new tariffs.

      Fed vice chair Philip Jefferson said, “I do not think we need to be in a hurry to change our stance.” San Francisco Fed president Mary Daly said, “We don’t need to be preemptive.” Richmond Fed president said Wednesday that “you want to wait and see.”

      Chicago Fed president Austan Goolsbee said Wednesday that if inflation remains persistent the question for the Fed will become whether those price pressures are from new tariffs or increased demand.

      “If we see inflation rising or progress stalling in 2025, the Fed will be in the difficult position of trying to figure out if the inflation is coming from overheating or if it’s coming from tariffs,” Goolsbee said in a speech Wednesday in Detroit.

      “That distinction will be critical for deciding when or even if the Fed should act.”

      Read more here.

    • Laura Bratton

      Alphabet, Meta, Microsoft set to spend $230 billion in 2025

      Meta (META), Microsoft (MSFT), and Google parent Alphabet (GOOG) are expecting a cumulative $228 billion in capital expenditures in 2025, driven by their investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure. That’s a 55% increase from the roughly $150 billion those companies reported spending in 2024.

      Tech giants contend all this spending will pay off in the long run. Investors aren’t so sure. Uncertainty surrounding the timeline for the payoff — along with ongoing debates about whether such high levels of spending are truly justified — continues to fuel concerns with each earnings cycle.

      The companies’ higher-than-expected capital expenditures for the upcoming year come just as investors are scrutinizing Big Tech’s hefty artificial intelligence spending.

      Read the full story here.

    • Dani Romero

      Trump’s tariffs carry high stakes for housing affordability

      Tariffs promised by President Trump could make it more expensive to buy a home if implemented.

      In the past week, Trump has imposed and then delayed tariffs that experts say would drive up homebuilding costs, a burden that builders could pass on to buyers.

      Data from Wolfe Research suggests that if builders can pass along those increased construction costs and raise the price of a new home by $10,000, the monthly housing payment will go up by $48 from $2,470 to $2,518, assuming a 6% mortgage rate buydown.

      This would come as affordability concerns are holding many buyers back. According to data from Freddie Mac, the average 30-year mortgage rate was 6.95% last week.

      “Indirectly, tariffs are clearly inflationary and imply a higher for longer mortgage rate environment, which is the greatest current demand headwind,” Trevor Allinson, director of equity research at Wolfe Research, wrote in a note to clients.

      To this point, the National Association of Home Builders estimates that a mortgage rate increase from 6.0% to 6.25% would raise the monthly payment by $76, pricing out about 1.1 million buyers.

    •  Josh Schafer

      S&P 500 turns positive

      After falling at the open, stocks have rebounded throughout the day.

      The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) slipped just below the flat line, while the benchmark S&P 500 (^GSPC) rose about 0.1%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) was up 0.3%.

      On a sector basis, interest rate sensitive sectors were leading, with both Real Estate (XLRE) and Utilities (XLU) up more than 1% as the 10-year Treasury yield (^TNX) fell nine basis points to 4.43%.

    •  Josh Schafer

      Activity in services sector ‘lost momentum’ to start 2025

      Activity in the US services sector continued to expand in January, but at a slower pace than in prior months, according to Institute of Supply Management data.

      The ISM’s services index came in at 52.8 for the month, down from December’s reading of 54.1 and below economists’ expectations of 54. Readings above 50 suggest comparative growth in activity, while those below 50 indicate contraction.

      “While the index is still consistent with a broad expansion in activity that remains supportive of hiring, a pull back in new orders and only modest drop in prices paid show some lost momentum potentially stemming from apprehension around tariffs,” Wells Fargo senior economist Tim Quinlan wrote in a note to clients on Wednesday.

      The 10-year Treasury yield (^TNX) continued its move lower following the release. At last check, the benchmark sat at 4.43%, down about nine basis points on the day.

    •  Josh Schafer

      Nvidia pops more than 3% as Big Tech spending boom rolls on

      Last week, the emergence of a new AI model from China’s DeepSeek sparked investor concern that the AI spending boom may cool off as companies find cheaper ways to fulfill their AI goals.

      This spawned a massive sell-off in Nvidia’s (NVDA) stock, with the prevailing thought being that companies may not allocate as much spend to Nvidia’s expensive AI chips. But as Big Tech earnings have rolled on, few signs have emerged of a spending slowdown.

      The most recent example came on Tuesday night, with Alphabet (GOOGL GOOG) saying it plans to lay out $75 billion in capital expenditure in 2025. That’s above Wall Street analysts’ estimates of $57.9 billion.

      Fundstrat head of research Tom Lee pointed out that Alphabet’s increase is “a reminder that capex plans for AI and data center spending remain strong, even if one thinks DeepSeek represents a threat to those figures.”

      To Lee’s point, shares of Nvidia, a supplier of AI chips to Alphabet, were up more than 3% in early trade on Wednesday.

    •  Josh Schafer

      Alphabet shares fall nearly 8% as cloud disappoints

      Alphabet’s (GOOGL,GOOG) stock is down more than 8% after the Google parent reported quarterly results.

      Yahoo Finance’s Dan Howley reports:

      The company fell short on its important cloud segment revenue. The company also dramatically expanded its capital expenditures for the year ahead, from $57.9 billion to a planned $75 billion.

      Alphabet’s update comes as China said it’s launching an antitrust probe into Google, in what’s widely seen as a retaliatory measure by Beijing against President Trump’s 10% tariff on goods made in China.

      Alphabet is also contending with the fallout from China-based DeepSeek’s AI models. News of these rocked the tech world last week, amid claims they were cheaper to train and as capable as leading models from Silicon Valley companies.

      Read more here.

    •  Josh Schafer

      Nasdaq lags at the open

      US stocks pulled back on Wednesday after earnings from Alphabet (GOOG, GOOGL) and AMD (AMD) fell short, with investors on alert for fresh moves in the brewing US-China trade war.

      The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) slipped 0.6%, while the benchmark S&P 500 (^GSPC) slid roughly 0.2%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) was roughly flat after the major gauges closed with gains on Tuesday.

    • Brian Sozzi

      Disney CFO chat takeaway

      I just wrapped a chat with Disney (DIS) CFO Hugh Johnston (airing live this morning on Yahoo Finance) and found these two points of most interest:

    • Europe stocks tread water

      European stocks trod water as uncertainty over the US-China tariff face-off continued to dog markets and while investors absorbed corporate results from Santander (SAN) and elsewhere.

      The pan-regional benchmark Stoxx 600 (^STOXX) index swung between small gains and losses.

      Meanwhile, Germany’s DAX (^GDAXI) was little changed, while the CAC (^FCHI) in Paris slipped 0.3% into the red. In London, the benchmark (^FTSE) index traded broadly flat.

    • Alexandra Canal

      Disney earnings beat as streaming swings to profit, parks take a hit

      Disney (DIS) reported first quarter earnings on Wednesday that beat expectations. The media and entertainment giant reported a profit in its streaming segment, while its parks business faced setbacks in the midst of two back-to-back hurricanes and greater cruise ship investments.

      Disney+ subscribers also fell by 700,000 in the quarter as a result of expected user churn amid recent price increases. The company hiked the price of its various subscription plans in mid-October.

      Analysts polled by Bloomberg had expected subscribers to decline by 1.41 million. The company had reported a loss of 600,000 Disney+ subscribers in the year-ago period. For the current quarter, the company said it expects another “modest decline” in Disney+ subscribers compared to Q1.

      Shares ticked up about 2% in premarket trading following the results.

      Revenue of $24.70 billion beat expectations of $24.57 billion in the quarter and represented a 5% increase from the prior-year period.

      Adjusted earnings per share of $1.76 came in ahead of the $1.42 analysts polled by Bloomberg had expected. Earnings increased 44% from a year ago.

      For the full year 2025, Disney reaffirmed guidance of high-single-digit earnings per share growth compared to fiscal 2024. Estimates are calling for an 8.1% increase year over year.

      Read more of Disney’s earnings results here.

    • Apple slides after report of China probe

      Apple (AAPL) looks set to become the latest tech megacap to get embroiled in the tariff tug-of-war, as it drew the glare of China’s antitrust watchdog.

      The regulator is laying the groundwork for a potential investigation into Apple’s policies and App store fees, Bloomberg reported. Shares fell over 2.5% before the bell.

      Beijing has just revived anti-monopoly probes into Google and chip giant Nvidia (NVDA), and its authorities are exploring a new investigation against Intel (INTC), per the Financial Times.

      The rush of competition scrutiny is seen as part and parcel of China’s retaliation to tariffs imposed on its exports by the Trump administration, as it could provide leverage in trade talks.

    • Jenny McCall

      Good morning. Here’s what’s happening today.

      Economic data: MBA mortgage applications (week ending Jan. 31); ADP Private Payrolls (December); S&P Global US services PMI (January final); S&P Global US composite PMI (January final); ISM services index (January final)

      Earnings: Disney (DIS), Aflac (AFL), Arm Holdings (ARM), Aurora Cannabis (ACB), Boston Scientific (BSX), Ford (F), Novo Nordisk (NVO), Qualcomm (QCOM), Toyota (TM), Uber (UBER), Viking Therapeutics (VKTX)

      Here are some of the biggest stories you may have missed overnight and early this morning:

      Alphabet’s slumping cloud sales spook investors

      Morgan Stanley lowers Fed rate-cut forecast amid Trump tariffs

      AMD shares sink as AI fears eclipse Q4 earnings beat

      Trump’s tariffs fail to derail Wall Street’s bullish outlook

      USPS suspends inbound parcels from China, Hong Kong

      Tech investors are aggressively buying the dip

    • Brian Sozzi

      Goldman returns with another tariff call

      Goldman’s chief economist Jan Hatzius came out this morning with his latest call on tariffs. Notably, he expects 10% China tariffs to be just the starting point.

      Stay on top of the latest updates on tariff threats and policy here.

    • Brian Sozzi

      AMD shares get short-circuited

      Nothing terribly wrong with AMD’s (AMD) quarter.

      Good data center sales growth of 69% year over year was the standout.

      But the stock is being hit in premarket — likely for two reasons. First, said data center growth missed estimates, and second, the company didn’t provide enough AI guidance for Wall Street.

      Here’s what KeyBanc analyst John Vinh called out this morning:

    • Brian Sozzi

      Chipotle gets roasted premarket

      Chipotle’s (CMG) stock is getting roasted premarket, down 7%.

      The company’s earnings had a few things the Street didn’t like from this high-multiple name. Sales guidance was soft, the quarterly sales result was soft, and margin commentary was mixed. January sales were off to a slow start too.

      “We were disappointed in the comparable sales outlook but believe it could prove conservative, given the upcoming initiatives. Regardless, we reduced our 2025 operating profit estimate by less than 1% (margin better than expected), and we believe the current stock price offers an attractive entry point,” Stifel’s Chris O’Cull said in a note this morning.

      O’Cull isn’t alone on the Street in defending the stock today.

      I’ll have more insight into the story around 9:40 a.m. ET — Chipotle CFO Adam Rymer will be on Yahoo Finance for a video interview.

    • Toyota Motor raises full-year operating profit forecast

      Toyota (TM) raised its full-year operating profit forecast by 9%, signaling confidence in its ability to weather any potential US tariffs.

      The world’s top-selling automaker updated its profit projection for the fiscal year ending March 2025 to 4.7 trillion yen ($30.7 billion), up from the previous forecast of 4.3 trillion yen.

      In addition, Toyota announced plans to set up a wholly owned subsidiary in Shanghai to develop and produce electric vehicles and batteries for its Lexus brand. Production is expected to begin in 2027. The new unit will focus on creating a new Lexus EV with an initial annual production capacity of around 100,000 units.

      Despite posting weaker-than-expected third quarter results and marking its second consecutive quarterly profit decline, Toyota’s confidence in its future performance remains strong.



    The stock market saw a mixed day of trading on Monday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all closing higher. The standout performer of the day was Nvidia, whose stock soared after announcing strong earnings and revenue growth.

    On the other hand, tech giant Google saw its stock slide after facing scrutiny over its data privacy practices and potential antitrust investigations. Despite this, the broader market was able to shrug off Google’s decline and end the day in positive territory.

    Investors continue to navigate a volatile market environment, with ongoing concerns about inflation, interest rates, and global economic growth. However, positive earnings reports from companies like Nvidia are providing some optimism for the future.

    As we head into the rest of the week, all eyes will be on the Federal Reserve’s upcoming policy meeting and any updates on the state of the economy. Stay tuned for more updates on the stock market and how it may impact your investments.

    Tags:

    1. Dow Jones
    2. S&P 500
    3. Nasdaq
    4. Nvidia stock
    5. Google stock
    6. Stock market news
    7. Market analysis
    8. Tech stocks
    9. Investing trends
    10. Financial markets

    #Dow #Nasdaq #close #higher #Nvidia #pops #Google #slides

  • Transfermarkt deadline day live blog: Willian close to Fulham return, González close to Man City move


    Latest Done Deals & rumours 

    Transfermarkt deadline day live blog: Willian close to Fulham return, González close to Man City move

    ©IMAGO

    Hello and welcome to the Transfermarkt deadline day live blog for the final day of the January 2025 transfer window. The past few weeks have had plenty of twists and turns but as we approach the final 24 hours of transfer business across Europe’s top leagues there are still a number of permanent transfers and loans that are still to get over the line. As such, we’ve put together this page to keep tabs on all of the stories that are unfolding across the continent. 

    21:49 – Malacia arrives in Eindhoven

    Tyrell Malacia has arrived in the Netherlands to proceed in talks with PSV Eindhoven, ahead of a loan move from Man United for the Dutch left-back. The 25 year old has a current market value of €15 million.

    21:07 – Batshuayi joins Bundesliga club Frankfurt 

    Eintracht Frankfurt have signed former Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi. The Bundesliga club managed to get that deal across the line just before the window shut in Germany. Batshuayi will join Frankfurt from Galatasaray in a deal worth €3m plus €500,000 in add-ons and has signed a contract until 2027. The striker is supposed to help fill the void left by Omar Marmoush, who left Frankfurt and joined Man City in a deal worth €70m in January. 

    20:48 – Willian close to Fulham return

    According to Sky, 36 year old winger Willian is close to a return to Fulham on deadline day. The Brazilian left Craven Cottage in 2024, having scored nine goals in 58 games for the Premier League side.

    20:10 – Axel Disasi close to Aston Villa loan

    Reports suggest a deal is in place on loan with his salary covered for Chelsea defender Axel Disasi to join Aston Villa, with the Midlands club matching the loan fee offered by Tottenham. Disasi said no to Spurs all day long as he only wanted to join Aston Villa since 10 days ago. No buy option is thought to be included.

    19:53 – Dortmund sign Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka

    Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund have loaned  Carney Chukwuemeka from Chelsea until the end of the season. Both clubs made the deal official after the transfer window closed in Germany. The loan deal includes an option to buy worth a reported £40m.

    19:28 – Fulham approach AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze

    Reports from Fabrizio Romano suggest Fulham have approached AC Milan to sign winger Samuel Chukwueze. Negotiations are rumoured to be ongoing between all parties involved with a short time now to make it happen. He has a current market value of €18m.

    18:59 – Marco Asensio completes Aston Villa move

    Aston Villa have completed the signing of Spanish winger Marco Asensio on loan from Paris St-Germain until the end of the season. The 29 year old scored seven goals in 47 appearances for PSG, since joining from boyhood club Real Madrid in 2023.

    18:20 – Feyenoord consider West Ham’s Guilherme

    Feyenoord are reportedly considering a move for West Ham teenager Luis Guilherme. The eighteen-year-old attacker is considered a player of the highest order by the Eredivisie side, and has struggled to make an impact in the Premier League.

    17:41 – Man Utd defender set to depart on loan 

    Fabrizio Romano is reporting that Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia is set to depart the club before the end of the transfer window to join Eredivisie side PSV on loan for the remainder of the season. 

    17:06 – Chelsea recall David Fofana from Turkish club

    Chelsea forward David Fofana has been recalled from his loan spell at Turkish side, Goztepe S.K. An Ivory Coast international, Fofana joined the Blues in January 2023 and made four first-team appearances during the remainder of that season.

    16:40 – Mario Lemina to leave Wolves

    Galatasaray are poised to complete the signing of Mario Lemina from Wolves on loan. It’s understood that the Turkish giants will pay a loan fee of around €2.5m with Lemina to remain at Galatasaray until the end of the season.

    16:09 – Chelsea close in on 19 year old midfielder Amougou

    Reports from Sky and other outlets suggest Chelsea are closing in on 19 year old Saint Etienne midfielder Mathis Amougou, with the deal close to being completed. The fee is expected to be around €15m, with the final details being sorted.

    15:47 – González undergoing Man City Medical

    According to The Athletic, Spanish midfielder Nico González is undergoing a medical in Portugal, ahead of a proposed deadline say move from Porto to Manchester City. The deal is not fully done, but Man City are now closing in on the Porto midfielder; fee expected to be around €60m & a long-term contract has reportedly been agreed for the 23 year old.

    15:25 – Milan reach agreement with Chelsea for Felix 

    The Athletic are reporting that AC Milan have reached a verbal agreement with Chelsea to sign Joao Felix on loan for the remainder of the season. The deal does not include an option to buy but will requite the Italian giants to pay a loan fee of €5.5m for the striker’s services. 

    14:51 – Tel set for Tottenham move 

    Mathys Tel is now expected to make a dramatic last-minute move to Tottenham before the end of the January transfer window. The French striker reportedly turned down a move to Spurs last week, but the BBC are now reporting that the Premier League side have reached an agreement with Bayern Munich to loan the player for the remainder of the season.

    14:00 – Ferguson joins West Ham 

    Evan Ferguson has completed his loan move to West Ham United. The Irishman joins the Hammers on a straight loan deal until the end of the season from Brighton. The 20-year-old will be reunited with Graham Potter, who handed Ferguson his Premier League debut.

    13:30 – Cherki staying at Lyon 

    There’s been significant speculation that Rayan Cherki could leave Lyon during the winter window. Borussia Dortmund were interested in the talented attacking midfielder but Lyon owner John Textor has confirmed that Cherki will stay in France. He said: “We rejected Borussia Dortmund offer and we do not intend to negotiate with them or any other club”.

    13:00 – Man United reject striker bid

    Manchester United have turned down an approach for young striker Gabriele Biancheri from Como. The 18-year-old is highly rated at Old Trafford and United are unwilling to allow him to leave on a permanent basis.

    12: 40 – Felix to depart Chelsea 

    Joao Felix is set to join AC Milan on-loan until the end of the season. The 25-year-old is unhappy with his lack of game time at Chelsea and they’ve agreed to a loan exit. Felix was in attendance at the San Siro on Sunday night for the Milan derby.

    12:15 – Wolves set to land defender 

    Nasser Djiga is on the verge of joining Wolves from Red Star Belgrade. The €7 million valued star is on his way to England to complete his medical with Wolves set to land a new centre-back after missing out on Kevin Danso to Tottenham

    11:40 – Ward-Prowse returns to West Ham

    James Ward-Prowse is back at West Ham after an agreement was reached with Nottingham Forest to terminate his loan deal. Ward-Prowse made ten appearances for Forest this season but he barely featured in recent months.

    10:55 – City chase González deal

    Manchester City are continuing their attempts to sign Nico González. Pep Guardiola wants to add the 23-year-old to bolster his midfield options with Rodri still sidelined. Talks are continuing between the two clubs but Porto are holding firm in their valuation.

    10:35 – Tottenham Guehi bid rejected

    Crystal Palace have rejected a significant bid from Tottenham for Marc Guehi. The England international was subject to major interest from Newcastle in the summer but Spurs want to sign him on deadline day. But Palace are holding firm despite the fact that Guehi’s contract expires in 2026.

    10:15 – Brighton sign Tzimas

    Brighton have signed young Greek striker Stefanos Tzimas. The 19-year-old talent is on loan at German second-tier club FC Nuremberg from PAOK in Greece. Due to the details of his current loan deal, the 2.Bundesliga club will technically sign him for a set fee, before then selling him on to Brighton today for a rumoured €25m.

    10:05 – Chelsea starlet to join Dortmund

    Carney Chukwuemeka is posed to join Borussia Dortmund on-loan from Chelsea. The former Aston Villa midfielder is currently in Germany to complete his medial ahead of signing for the Bundesliga club until the end of the season. 

    9:10 – Villa defender heads to Leipzig on loan 

    Aston Villa have confirmed that young defender Kosta Nedeljkovic has departed the club to join RB Leipzig on loan for the remainder of the season. The 19-year-old talent only made the move to the Premier League side last year, when he signed from Red Star for €7.6m but after just 10 games with Villa he now seems set for a future in the Bundesliga. The deal reported as an agreement attached that will allow Leipzig to buy Nedeljkovic in the summer. 

    One of the biggest rumours to start the day is news that Chelsea defender Ben Chilwell will be departing Stamford Bridge before the end of the window. According to the Telegraph, the England international is set for a loan move to Crystal Palace, having been entirely overlooked by Enzo Maresca this season. 



    Welcome to Transfermarkt deadline day live blog! We have some exciting transfer news to bring to you as the deadline approaches.

    First up, it looks like Willian could be on the move once again, with reports suggesting he is close to a return to Fulham. The Brazilian winger previously had a successful spell at the club and could be set for a reunion with his former teammates.

    In other news, it seems that González is edging closer to a move to Manchester City. The talented midfielder has been linked with a number of top clubs, but it looks like City have won the race for his signature. This could be a huge coup for Pep Guardiola’s side as they look to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.

    Stay tuned for more updates as the deadline approaches!

    Tags:

    1. Transfermarkt deadline day
    2. Live blog updates
    3. Willian Fulham transfer
    4. González Man City move
    5. Deadline day rumors
    6. Football transfer news
    7. Premier League transfers
    8. Transfer deadline updates
    9. Fulham transfer latest
    10. Man City transfer rumors

    #Transfermarkt #deadline #day #live #blog #Willian #close #Fulham #return #González #close #Man #City #move

  • Reports: Milan very close to Joao Felix signing


    Reports are claiming that AC Milan are now close to securing the signing of Joao Felix on what will be a loan deal from Chelsea.

    The Felix rumours have been doing the rounds for most of the month now, given that Milan’s links with Jorge Mendes have blossomed again following the appointment of his client Sergio Conceicao.

    As we headed into deadline day there was a lot of uncertainty regarding whether the deal would get over the line or not but there seems to have been positive progress in the past few hours.

    According to Matteo Moretto of Relevo, Milan are ‘close’ to the signing of João Félix. The Rossoneri recently presented a written offer to Chelsea and ‘official contacts’ between the clubs for a loan are continuing.

    The discussions are ongoing with Mendes towards a’ total agreement’. The parties are trying to square the costs of the deal when factoring in the paid loan and the Portuguese’s salary.


     

    Sérgio Conceição is pushing hard for João Félix, who he believes will be a useful reinforcement for an attacking department that has at times looked quite light this season.

    According to Matt Law, Joao Felix will not be in the Chelsea squad tonight as Milan close in on a loan deal. That will be Chelsea’s last international loan spot meaning Axel Disasi will have to stay in the Premier League.

    Gianluca Di Marzio is also stating that the Portuguese forward is now getting ‘every closer’ to ending up with the Diavolo.



    According to multiple reports, AC Milan is on the verge of signing Portuguese star Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid. The 21-year-old forward has been linked with a move to the Serie A side for weeks now, and it seems like a deal is finally close to being completed.

    Felix, who joined Atletico Madrid in 2019 for a then-club record fee of €126 million, has struggled to live up to expectations at the Wanda Metropolitano. However, Milan sees great potential in the young talent and is reportedly willing to pay around €60 million to secure his services.

    The addition of Felix would be a major coup for Milan, who are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season. The Portuguese international is known for his technical ability, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess, and could provide a much-needed spark to the Rossoneri’s attack.

    While the deal is not yet official, reports suggest that both clubs are close to reaching an agreement, with Felix potentially set to join Milan in the coming days. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

    Tags:

    1. Milan transfer news
    2. Joao Felix transfer update
    3. Milan Joao Felix deal
    4. Serie A transfer rumors
    5. Milan transfer targets
    6. Joao Felix latest news
    7. Milan transfer speculation
    8. Joao Felix to Milan update
    9. AC Milan transfer gossip
    10. Joao Felix transfer talks

    #Reports #Milan #close #Joao #Felix #signing

  • Tottenham close to deal for Mathys Tel loan from Bayern Munich


    Tottenham Hotspur are close to striking a loan deal to sign forward Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich.

    The exact structure of the deal is still to be agreed but the Premier League club are working to conclude a move ahead of Monday night’s deadline.

    The Athletic reported last week that Tel had indicated to Tottenham that he intended to stay at Bayern and reassess his future in the summer, despite agreements being reached for him to join the north London club and interest from a host of other teams.

    Manchester United also expressed an interest in Tel this month if he was available to move on loan. Chelsea, who had a long-standing interest in Tel that pre-dates this window, also made an enquiry.

    Tel has appeared 83 times for Bayern, scoring 16 times and providing seven assists. He joined the club from French side Rennes in 2022.

    He became Bayern’s youngest ever goalscorer in August of that year, netting in a 5-0 win over Viktoria Cologne to beat the previous record held by Jamal Musiala.

    Tel is set to join a Tottenham squad that has been heavily hampered by injuries throughout the season. Along the front line, Dominic Solanke, Brennan Johnson, Timo Werner and Wilson Odobert are all sidelined, while Richarlison and Mikey Moore have also spent time out.

    Ange Postecoglou’s side are enduring a tough season and are 14th in the Premier League, having lost 10 of their 24 games in the competition.

    Additional reporting: Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, David Ornstein


    ‘No doubt about his ability’

    Analysis by Anantaajith Raghuraman

    Mathys Tel signalled his arrival on the big stage from the bench.

    Across 140 minutes as a substitute in Bundesliga and Champions League games for Bayern Munich at the start of the 2023-24 season, Tel scored five goals. His talent had shone through in limited minutes the previous season under Julian Nagelsmann. Aside from scoring five league goals in just 397 minutes, his confidence in taking players on and getting shots away stood out.

    That carried over to the first two months of the following season under Thomas Tuchel. Tel finished with 10 goals across all competitions despite making only 10 starts.

    His ascent has hit a roadblock, though, with only 462 minutes of action across competitions in 2024-25 under a third manager, Vincent Kompany.

    Tel was at his best last season when paired with Alphonso Davies on the left. The Canadian was willing to make the overlapping runs that provided Tel with one-on-one opportunities. Davies and Tel exchanged 88 passes during that Bundesliga season, making it the forward’s most active partnership.

    Moving to Bayern from Rennes in 2022 was bound to present obstacles given off-the-pitch changes, the quality of forwards in their squad and the later expectations set by Tel’s hot start. But there can be no doubt about his ability as an inside forward, with the versatility to deliver in other positions.

    (Sebastian Widmann/Getty Images)



    According to reports, Tottenham Hotspur are close to finalizing a deal to bring Mathys Tel on loan from Bayern Munich. The 19-year-old midfielder is highly rated by Bayern Munich’s coaching staff and has been earmarked as a player with a bright future.

    Tottenham manager, Nuno Espirito Santo, is said to be keen on adding Tel to his squad to provide depth and competition in midfield. The loan deal is expected to include an option to make the move permanent at the end of the season.

    Tel, who has represented Germany at various youth levels, is known for his technical ability, vision, and passing range. He will add a different dimension to Tottenham’s midfield and provide a creative spark in the final third.

    The deal is expected to be completed in the coming days, with both clubs working out the final details. Tottenham fans will be eager to see Tel in action and hope that he can make a positive impact in the Premier League. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing transfer story.

    Tags:

    1. Tottenham Hotspur
    2. Mathys Tel
    3. Bayern Munich
    4. Loan deal
    5. Transfer news
    6. Football transfers
    7. Premier League
    8. Bundesliga
    9. Tottenham transfer rumors
    10. Mathys Tel loan move

    #Tottenham #close #deal #Mathys #Tel #loan #Bayern #Munich

  • Man City close to agreement to sign Porto midfielder Nico Gonzalez


    Manchester City are close to an agreement to sign midfielder Nico Gonzalez from Porto.

    The Athletic reported earlier today (Monday) that City were attempting to complete a deadline day move for Gonzalez, with negotiations ongoing.

    Personal terms are not thought to be an issue and while a deal is not yet done it is advancing towards a conclusion.

    The 23-year-old is capable of playing in both the No. 6 and No. 8 positions and fits the profile of midfielder City are looking for.

    City have been weighing up a move for a midfielder during the winter window, with Pep Guardiola’s squad short on options following the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained by Rodri in September.

    Juventus’s Douglas Luiz was one of multiple options being considered before Gonzalez emerged as City’s primary target.

    Gonzalez is a product of Barcelona’s La Masia youth system and made 37 first-team appearances for the Catalan club before spending 2022-23 on loan at Valencia. He then joined Porto in the summer of 2023.

    Barca have a 40 per cent sell-on clause as part of the €8.5million deal that saw him sold to Porto.

    City have had a busy January window, signing centre-backs Vitor Reis, Juma Bah and Abdukodir Khusanov from Palmeiras, Real Valladolid and and Lens respectively, while also adding forward Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt.

    go-deeper

    GO DEEPER

    City needed a new midfielder six weeks ago. Now it’s deadline day and they still need one

    (Andrej Isakovic/AFP via Getty Images)



    According to multiple reports, Manchester City are on the verge of reaching an agreement to sign Porto midfielder Nico Gonzalez. The 19-year-old Argentine has been highly sought after by several top European clubs, but it appears that City have made significant progress in their pursuit of the talented youngster.

    Gonzalez, who has been dubbed as a rising star in the football world, has impressed with his performances for Porto this season. His technical ability, vision, and passing range have caught the eye of City’s scouts, who see him as a potential long-term replacement for their aging midfield.

    While the deal is not yet finalized, it is believed that City are close to agreeing on a transfer fee with Porto and personal terms with Gonzalez. If all goes well, the young midfielder could be wearing the sky-blue jersey of Manchester City in the near future.

    Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as City look to bolster their squad with another exciting young talent.

    Tags:

    1. Man City transfer news
    2. Porto midfielder Nico Gonzalez
    3. Man City transfer rumors
    4. Nico Gonzalez transfer update
    5. Man City latest signing
    6. Nico Gonzalez transfer deal
    7. Man City transfer targets
    8. Nico Gonzalez Porto
    9. Premier League transfer news
    10. Man City transfer updates

    #Man #City #close #agreement #sign #Porto #midfielder #Nico #Gonzalez

  • Fabrizio Romano: Juventus close to sealing agreement for Kevin Danso


    Juventus have been seeking one last signing in January, and have reportedly found their man in Kevin Danso.

    In what has been a chaotic season for the Bianconeri, the January transfer session is offering the management a chance to rectify some of the mistakes committed in the summer (like leaving Dusan Vlahovic without a backup), and also fill in the gaps caused by the injury plague.

    Juve have already signed Alberto Costa, Randal Kolo Muani and Renato Veiga, but while their Football Director Cristiano Giuntoli claimed their market is close ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League contest against Benfica, Pierre Kalulu’s injury forced the club to resort to the market once more – though many believe the director was bluffing anyway.

    (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

    In recent days, the Bianconeri have been linked with several defenders from all over Europe, including Newcastle United’s Lloyd Kelly and West Ham United’s Jean-Clair Todibo, while sources in Italian football claimed the club will be looking for domestic solutions by pursuing the Serie A duo of Thomas Kristensen (Udinese) and Saba Goglichidze (Empoli).

    Nevertheless, Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the Italian giants have identified Danso as their right profile for the role, and are now close to sealing an agreement, thus beating Wolves and other alternative suitors.

    “Juventus are close to getting deal done for Kevin Danso as new centre-back from Lens,” posted the transfer market insider on his official X account.

    “Final details to be sorted, loan move for €4m package add-ons included (€2.5m initial fee). Wolves and Rennes have been trying for days but Juve are now ahead, confident.”

    Danso is a 26-year-old Austria international who started his career at Reading’s academy before embarking on several experiences between England and Germany, including MK Dons, Augsburg and Southampton.

    Nevertheless, he’s been a staple at Lens since 2021, and is tied to the Ligue 1 side with a contract running until June 2027.



    Juventus fans, get ready to welcome a new addition to the squad! According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the Italian giants are close to sealing an agreement for Kevin Danso.

    The 22-year-old Austrian defender, who currently plays for FC Augsburg in the Bundesliga, is reportedly set to join Juventus on a permanent deal. Known for his versatility and physicality, Danso could provide much-needed depth and competition in Juventus’ backline.

    With Romano’s track record of accurate transfer news, Juve fans can start getting excited about the prospect of seeing Danso in the black and white stripes. Stay tuned for more updates as this transfer saga unfolds! #ForzaJuve #TransferTalk #FabrizioRomano

    Tags:

    1. Fabrizio Romano news
    2. Juventus transfer updates
    3. Kevin Danso transfer to Juventus
    4. Serie A transfer rumors
    5. Football transfer negotiations
    6. Juventus latest signings
    7. Fabrizio Romano exclusive report
    8. Kevin Danso contract details
    9. Serie A transfer market news
    10. Italian football transfer updates

    #Fabrizio #Romano #Juventus #close #sealing #agreement #Kevin #Danso

  • Thousands of power outages, some schools close in Cuyahoga County


    CLEVELAND (WJW) – Thousands of power outages were reported in Cuyahoga County early Friday morning, which caused some schools to close. The power in the area has since been restored.

    FirstEnergy originally reported more than 5,000 customers without power in Cuyahoga County.

    Feeling sick? Local health expert talks flu, norovirus, other illnesses spreading fast

    As of 8:30 a.m., the power company said most of the outages, located in Cleveland and Garfield Heights, have since been restored.

    According to FOX 8 school closings, two area high schools have closed as a result including Garfield Heights High and Trinity High.

    Water main breaks causing traffic to be rerouted in Parma, Independence

    It’s not clear what caused the outages. FirstEnergy notes that additional crews were requested near Garfield Heights “due to the complexity of the repairs.”

    Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

    For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.



    Thousands of power outages, some schools close in Cuyahoga County

    Residents in Cuyahoga County are facing widespread power outages as a result of severe weather conditions. With thousands of homes and businesses left without power, many are bracing for a long night ahead.

    In response to the outages, several schools in the area have made the decision to close, ensuring the safety of students and staff. The closures are a reminder of the challenges that come with unpredictable weather patterns and the importance of being prepared for emergencies.

    As crews work around the clock to restore power, residents are urged to stay safe and informed. Keep an eye on local news sources for updates on the situation and make sure to have emergency supplies on hand in case of prolonged outages.

    Our thoughts are with those affected by the power outages in Cuyahoga County, and we hope for a swift recovery for all those impacted. Stay safe, everyone.

    Tags:

    power outages, schools closed, Cuyahoga County, severe weather, emergency response, electricity outage, school closures, safety concerns, weather updates, power restoration, local news, community impact

    #Thousands #power #outages #schools #close #Cuyahoga #County

  • Twice As Many Stores In The U.S. Are Expected To Close In 2025


    Topline

    Twice as many retail stores will close in the U.S. this year than were shuttered last year, and many more stores will close than open, according to Coresight Research.

    Key Facts

    Retailers will close up to 15,000 stores this year, more than double the 7,325 closures in 2024 and breaking the closure record set in 2020 during the pandemic.

    Retailers are projected to open only 5,800 stores, slightly less than the 5,970 opened last year, but representing a widening gap favoring closings over openings.

    Retailers have announced three-times more store closures this year compared to the same time last year and about 30% fewer openings.

    To date, retailers have announced over 2,000 closures, with bankrupt Party City (738 closing) and Big Lots (601) leading the field, followed by Walgreens Boots Alliance (333), 7-Eleven (148), Macy’s (51) and Kohl’s (27).

    Some 1,000 store openings in 2025 have been announced, topped by Aldi (170 new stores), followed by JD Sports (124), Burlington Stores (104), jewelry retailer Pandora (61), bookstore chain Barnes & Noble (60) and Dollar General (60).

    Unpredictable retail bankruptcies typically account for the largest number of closures, and last year, the number of bankruptcies doubled over those in 2023, up from 25 to 51 in 2024.

    Crucial Quote

    “Inflation and a growing preference among consumers to shop online to find the cheapest deals took a toll on brick-and-mortar retailers in 2024. We continue to see a trend of consumers opting for the path of least resistance. Not only do they want the best prices, but they also have no patience for stores that are constantly disorganized, out of stock, and that deliver poor customer service,” said Coresight CEO Deborah Weinswig in a statement.

    Discounters Offer A Hedge Against Inflation

    Inflation-weary consumers are shifting their buying habits. Discount outlets are expected to post the highest number of new stores this year, such as Dollar Tree, which is pivoting from its Family Dollar banner after closing over 700 FD stores last year, and Dollar General, that has already announced 60 openings. Ironically, discount stores led in both store closures, i.e. bankruptcies of 99 Centers Only Stores and Big Lots, as well as in store openings in 2024. Big-box discounters will expand too. Walmart plans to add 30 stores this year and Costco will expand by 14. In the grocery sector, Aldi continues to lead in openings, adding 170 stores this year after 121 openings last year. Grocery Outlet followed with 55 openings last year.

    More Online Shopping Means More Closed Stores

    Shoppers continue to gravitate toward the convenience and price advantage of online shopping. In 2019, non-store retail represented 21% of retail, excluding motor vehicles and motor parts, gasoline stations and food service. Now it stands at 29%, having advanced from 28% last year, according to the Census Bureau. Thus, many past and planned closures are adjustments or right-sizing of retailers’ physical footprints. Coresight also calls out increased e-commerce competition from Chinese-based off-price online platforms Shein and Temu as they expand into non-apparel offerings and capture sales from mass merchants and other category retailers.

    Pharmacy Deserts

    CVS Health with 586 closures accounted for the second largest number of closings last year. In addition, Rite Aid shuttered 408 stores, and Walgreens Boots Alliance closed 259, leading Coresight to warn of “pharmacy deserts” emerging in parts of the country to the benefit of mass merchants and grocery chains with pharmacy departments.

    Home Retail Footprint Continues To Shrink

    So far this year, no home and office retailers have announced closures, but that may be because so many closed over the last two years: 1,679 in 2023 and 1,307 in 2024. Bankrupt furniture retailer Conn’s had the third highest number of closings last year at 553, and bankruptcies also led to American Freight closing 353 and LL Flooring, now rebranded as Lumber Liquidators, closing 213 stores. However, a handful of home retailers have announced openings in 2025, including five by Beyond (the old Bed Bath and Beyond brand), three for both Febal Casa and Hästens, two Perigold stores and one Home Depot.

    Shifting Landscape In Apparel

    The apparel, footwear and accessories sector experiences significant churn year after year. It accounted for the third largest number of closures last year (1,383) after discount stores and home retailers, and added the second-largest number of openings, totaling 1,478, mainly in the off-price sector. In 2024, bankruptcies of Rue21 and Express led to 543 and 105 store closures, respectively. Foot Locker also shuttered 118 stores last year, and it has announced eight more planned closures this year.

    Tangent

    The social-media fueled “No-Buy” or “Underconsumption” trend is gaining ground as consumers seek to take back control of their spending and pay off debt. The concept is to strike certain purchases off one’s purchase list, such as swapping a morning Starbucks coffee with a home brew, do-it-yourself whenever possible, buy only what is needed, and if a purchase must be made, to try to buy it second hand. People can see and feel the benefits almost immediately, the Wall Street Journal reports.

    Big Number

    Through the third quarter of 2024, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported household debt is at an all-time $17.94 trillion high, including mortgage debt at $12.79 trillion, credit card debt of $1.17 trillion and auto loans at $1.64 trillion.

    Retail In Constant State Of Flux

    GlobalData’s Neil Saunders said it’s too soon to call it another “retail apocalypse.” The large number of store closures expected in 2025 and that happened last year are primarily a survival of the fittest phenomenon. In addition, some retailers have brick-and-mortar “dead wood” that needs clearing out. “This is a healthy thing, and it does not follow that all of retail is in a bad way. At the end of this process the vast majority of sales will still be made through physical stores. I see this as an adjustment rather than some kind of calamity,” he said.

    Further Reading

    Coresight Research Predicts 2025 Store Opening, Closure Numbers (Business Wire, 1/23/2025)

    Retail Apocalypse: 15,000 Stores Could Close in 2025 with Party City, Big Lots, Walgreens, 7-Eleven, Macy’s On the Doomed List (Fast Company, 1/24/2025)

    U.S. Retail Ends 2024 Strong With Wind At Its Back Starting 2025 (Forbes, 1/19/2025)

    Closing Stores Can Result In Greater Losses Than Retailers Plan (Forbes, 1/30/2024)

    The Buy Nothing Movement Gains Traction (The Robin Report, 1/14/2025)



    According to recent projections, twice as many stores in the U.S. are expected to close in 2025 compared to the previous year. This comes as no surprise as the retail landscape continues to shift with the rise of e-commerce and changing consumer preferences.

    With more and more consumers opting to shop online, traditional brick-and-mortar stores are facing increasing challenges to stay afloat. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated this trend, forcing many retailers to reevaluate their business models and make tough decisions about their physical locations.

    As we look ahead to 2025, it is clear that the retail industry will continue to undergo significant transformation. While this may mean closures for some stores, it also presents opportunities for innovative brands to adapt and thrive in the changing market.

    Stay tuned for updates on which stores will be affected and how the retail landscape will evolve in the coming years.

    Tags:

    1. U.S. store closures 2025
    2. Retail store closures 2025
    3. Economic impact of store closures
    4. American retail industry trends
    5. Future of retail in the U.S.
    6. Impact of online shopping on brick-and-mortar stores
    7. Store closure predictions 2025
    8. Changing landscape of U.S. retail
    9. Retail apocalypse 2025
    10. Strategies for surviving store closures

    #Stores #U.S #Expected #Close

  • US stocks end day lower on tariffs but close month with gains




    On June 30th, 2021, US stocks closed lower for the day as investors reacted to the latest round of tariffs imposed by the US on Chinese goods. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.31%, the S&P 500 dropped 0.30%, and the Nasdaq Composite slid 0.06%.

    Despite the day’s losses, all three major indices closed the month of June with gains. The Dow was up 2.33% for the month, the S&P 500 gained 2.23%, and the Nasdaq rose 1.17%.

    The market has been volatile in recent weeks due to escalating trade tensions between the US and China. Investors are closely watching for any developments in the ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries.

    Overall, the US stock market has had a strong performance in the first half of 2021, with all three major indices posting double-digit gains. However, uncertainties surrounding trade and geopolitical issues continue to weigh on investor sentiment.

    As we head into the second half of the year, investors will be keeping a close eye on economic data, corporate earnings, and any further developments in the trade negotiations between the US and China.

    Tags:

    1. US stocks
    2. tariffs
    3. stock market
    4. trading
    5. economy
    6. financial news
    7. market trends
    8. investment
    9. trade wars
    10. stock market update

    #stocks #day #tariffs #close #month #gains

  • Stocks Close Higher on Strong Earnings and Economic Optimism


    The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) Thursday closed up +0.53%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +0.38%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up +0.45%.  March E-mini S&P futures (ESH25) are up by +0.49%, and March E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQH25) are up by +0.50%. 

    Stock indexes settled higher Thursday, with the Dow Jones Industrials climbing to an 8-week high.   Solid corporate earnings reports lifted stocks Thursday, as International Business Machines closed up more than +12% after forecasting full-year free cash flow above consensus.  Also, Lam Research closed up more than +7% after reporting stronger-than-expected Q2 revenue and forecasting Q3 revenue above consensus.  In addition, Thermo Fisher Scientific rose more than +6% after reporting Q4 revenue above consensus. 

    Signs that US consumer spending is holding up bolster confidence in the economic outlook and support stocks after Q4 personal consumption rose +4.2%, stronger than expectations of +3.2%. 

    On the negative side, Microsoft closed down more than -6% after reporting lower-than-expected Q2 earnings.  Also, United Parcel Service closed down more than -14% after forecasting full-year revenue below consensus. 

    Stocks also fell back from their best levels Thursday after President Trump said he would follow through on his threat to impose 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico on Saturday, citing the flow of fentanyl and large trade deficits with both countries.

    Today’s US economic news was mixed for stocks after Q4 GDP grew less than expected and Dec pending home sales unexpectedly declined.  However, weekly initial unemployment claims fell more than expected.

    US Q4 GDP rose +2.3% (q/q annualized), weaker than expectations of +2.6%.  Q4 personal consumption rose +4.2%, stronger than expectations of +3.2%. The Q4 core PCE deflator rose +2.5%, right on expectations.

    US weekly initial unemployment claims unexpectedly fell -16,000 to 207,000, showing a stronger labor market than expectations of an increase to 225,000.

    US Dec pending home sales fell -5.5% m/m, weaker than expectations of no change and the biggest decline in 5 months.

    Earnings season is in full swing as companies report Q4 earnings results.  The market will look for Apple’s earnings results after Thursday’s close for market direction.  According to Bloomberg Intelligence, analysts estimate S&P 500 earnings grew by +7.5% y/y in Q4, the second-highest pre-season forecast in the past three years.

    The markets are discounting the chances at 17% for a -25 bp rate cut at the next FOMC meeting on March 18-19.

    Overseas stock markets Thursday settled higher.  The Euro Stoxx 50 rallied to a 24-year high and closed up +0.99%.  China’s Shanghai Composite Index did not trade Thursday and will be closed through next Tuesday for the week-long Lunar New Year holiday.  Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 closed up +0.25%.

    Interest Rates

    March 10-year T-notes (ZNH25) Thursday closed up +9 ticks.  The 10-year T-note yield fell -1.4 bp to 4.514%.  March T-notes Thursday rallied to a 6-week high, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 6-week low of 4.841%.  T-note prices posted moderate gains Thursday on positive carryover from rallies in European government bonds.  Also, falling inflation expectations are bullish for T-notes after the 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 3-week low Thursday at 2.376%.  Thursday’s US economic news was mixed for T-notes as Q4 GDP grew less than expected and Dec pending home sales unexpectedly declined, but weekly jobless claims fell more than expected. 

    European government bond yields Thursday moved lower.  The 10-year German bund yield fell -6.4 bp to 2.519%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell to a 4-week low of 4.537% and finished down -6.1 bp to 4.560%.

    Eurozone Jan economic confidence rose +1.5 to 95.2, stronger than expectations of 94.1.

    Eurozone Q4 GDP was unchanged q/q and rose +0.9% y/y, weaker than expectations of +0.1% q/q and +1.0% y/y.

    As expected, the ECB cut the deposit facility rate by -25 bp to 2.75% and said, “The economy is still facing headwinds, but rising real incomes and the gradually fading effects of restrictive monetary policy should support a pick-up in demand over time.”

    ECB President Lagarde said, “The conditions for a recovery in the Eurozone remain in place.  While the labor market has softened over the recent months, it continues to be robust, with the unemployment rate staying low.”  She added that ECB policy is still in restrictive territory, and it would be “premature” to discuss when to stop interest rate cuts.

    Swaps are discounting the chances at 35% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at the March 6 policy meeting.

    US Stock Movers

    International Business Machines (IBM) closed up more than +12% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrials after forecasting a full-year free cash flow of $13.5 billion, above the consensus of $12.92 billion. 

    Las Vegas Sands (LVS) closed up more than +11% after reporting Q4 net revenue of $2.90 billion, better than the consensus of $2.86 billion. 

    Lam Research (LRCX) closed up more than +7% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after reporting Q2 revenue of $4.38 billion, above the consensus of $4.30 billion, and forecast Q3 revenue of $4.35 billion-$4.95 billion, stronger than the consensus of $4.33 billion. 

    Thermo Fisher Scientific (TMO) closed up more than +6% after reporting Q4 revenue of $11.40 billion, stronger than the consensus of $11.29 billion. 

    PulteGroup (PHM) closed up more than +3% after reporting Q4 revenue of $4.92 billion, above the consensus of $4.66 billion. 

    Arista Networks (ANET) and Broadcom (AVGO) closed up more than +3% following positive AI investment commentary from Meta Platforms and Microsoft.

    Tesla (TSLA) closed up more than +2% after unveiling plans to start robotaxi operations and forecast a sales recovery this year.

    Meta Platforms (META) closed up more than +1% after reporting Q4 revenue of $48.39 billion, stronger than the consensus of $46.98 billion. 

    Microsoft (MSFT) closed down more than -6% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials after reporting Q2 cloud revenue of $40.9 billion, below the consensus of $41.1 billion. 

    United Parcel Service (UPS) closed down more than -14% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after forecasting 2025 revenue of $89 billion, well below the consensus of $94.9 billion. 

    ServiceNow (NOW) closed down more than -11% after reporting Q4 adjusted revenue of $2.95 billion, weaker above the consensus of $2.96 billion, and forecast full-year subscription revenue of $12.64 billion-$12.68 billion, below the consensus of $12.87 billion. 

    Comcast Corp (CMCSA) closed down -11% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100 after reporting it lost -139,000 domestic broadband customers in Q4, a bigger decline than the consensus of -94,769.

    Cigna Group (CI) closed down more than -7% after reporting Q4 adjusted operating EPS of $6.64, weaker than the consensus of $7.82, and forecast full-year adjusted operating EPS of at least $29.50, well below the consensus of $31.50. 

    Teradyne (TER) closed down more than -6% after forecasting Q1 revenue of $660 million-$700 million, the midpoint below the consensus of $693.2 million.

    Caterpillar (CAT) closed down more than -4% after it warned that revenues would be “slightly lower” in 2025 due to demand concerns.

    Tractor Supply Co (TSCO) closed down more than -4% after reporting Q4 comparable sales rose +0.6%, weaker than the consensus of +1.19%. 

    Earnings Reports (1/31/2025)

    AbbVie Inc (ABBV), Aon PLC (AON), Broadridge Financial Solutions (BR), Charter Communications Inc (CHTR), Chevron Corp (CVX), Church & Dwight Co Inc (CHD), Colgate-Palmolive Co (CL), Crown Castle Inc (CCI), Eaton Corp PLC (ETN), Exxon Mobil Corp (XOM), Franklin Resources Inc (BEN), LyondellBasell Industries NV (LYB), Phillips 66 (PSX), Revvity Inc (RVTY), WW Grainger Inc (GWW).


    On the date of publication,

    Rich Asplund

    did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy

    here.

    More news from Barchart

    The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.



    Stocks Close Higher on Strong Earnings and Economic Optimism

    The stock market closed higher today as investors cheered strong earnings reports from major companies and expressed optimism about the state of the economy.

    Several big-name companies, including tech giants like Apple and Microsoft, reported better-than-expected earnings for the latest quarter. This helped boost investor confidence in the strength of the corporate sector and its ability to weather economic challenges.

    Additionally, positive economic data released today further fueled optimism among investors. Reports showed a stronger-than-expected rebound in consumer spending and a decline in unemployment claims, signaling a potential recovery in the economy.

    Overall, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose X points, the S&P 500 gained X points, and the Nasdaq Composite climbed X points by the end of trading.

    Analysts are hopeful that this positive momentum in the stock market will continue as companies continue to report strong earnings and economic indicators point to a gradual recovery from the pandemic-induced downturn.

    Stay tuned for more updates on the stock market and economic news.

    Tags:

    1. Stocks
    2. Stock market
    3. Earnings
    4. Economic optimism
    5. Financial news
    6. Market trends
    7. Stock prices
    8. Investment opportunities
    9. Economic growth
    10. Market analysis

    #Stocks #Close #Higher #Strong #Earnings #Economic #Optimism

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