Leidos lifts annual profit forecast after third-quarter beat on resilient demand

Yum Brands is considering selling Pizza Hut as Taco Bell's strong performance has led to a successful third-quarter report. This potential sale reflects Yum's strategy to focus on its more profitable brands while continuing to drive growth.

Marriott's latest report shows a strong third-quarter profit of $728 million, driven by the performance of its luxury hotels. This success helped balance out some challenges faced in business and government travel.

Exelon has reported a remarkable 12% increase in data-center demand during the third quarter, surpassing profit estimates. This growth highlights the company's strong position in the market and reflects the increasing reliance on data centers in today's digital economy. As businesses continue to shift towards cloud-based solutions, Exelon's performance is a positive indicator of the industry's trajectory and the company's ability to capitalize on emerging trends.

Hertz has made headlines by reporting a significant profit in the third quarter, marking a remarkable turnaround for the company. This positive financial result not only boosts investor confidence but also reflects the effectiveness of Hertz's strategic initiatives. As the rental car market continues to recover, this surge in profitability is a promising sign for the company's future growth and stability.

Deutsche Bank has stated that the recent reform of the value-added tax (VAT) on gold in China will have a limited impact on demand. This is significant as China is one of the largest consumers of gold, and any changes in tax policy can influence market dynamics. By downplaying the potential effects, Deutsche Bank aims to reassure investors and stakeholders about the stability of gold demand in the region.

Marriott International has raised its profit forecast for 2025, driven by strong demand in the luxury hotel sector. This positive outlook reflects the company's confidence in the recovery of travel and hospitality, particularly among affluent travelers. As more people seek premium experiences, Marriott's strategic positioning in the luxury market is likely to enhance its profitability and market share, making it a key player in the industry's rebound.

Waters Corp has raised its annual profit forecast, driven by a surge in demand for lab equipment. This positive adjustment reflects the company's strong performance and the growing need for advanced analytical instruments in various industries. As laboratories expand their capabilities, Waters is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, which not only boosts its financial outlook but also highlights the importance of innovation in scientific research.

Harley-Davidson has reported a rise in its third-quarter profits, showcasing resilience in a challenging economic landscape. Despite facing soft demand for motorcycles due to consumer uncertainty and global tariffs, the company's ability to increase profits highlights its strong brand and operational strategies. This news is significant as it reflects how established companies can navigate tough market conditions while still delivering positive financial results.

Rapid7's stock has reached a 52-week low of $17.74, reflecting a challenging year for the company. Investors are concerned about the ongoing difficulties that have impacted its performance.

Palantir's outlook has been raised by BofA Securities Analyst Mariana Perez Mora, who believes the company will thrive even if the AI bubble bursts. She shared insights on Palantir's strong earnings and its unique position in the AI sector during a discussion with Caroline Hyde and Ed Ludlow on Bloomberg Tech.

Guggenheim has raised its price target for Sphere Entertainment to $90, reflecting a strong outlook for the company. This positive adjustment indicates confidence in Sphere's future performance and growth potential.

Mach Natural Resources has seen its stock price drop to a 52-week low of $11.76, raising concerns among investors about the company's performance and future prospects.

Bitcoin has seen a significant drop, losing over 20% from its recent peak and falling below $100,000 for the first time since June. This decline reflects a broader bear market trend, impacting crypto stocks as well. Fred Thiel, CEO of Mara Inc, shared insights on the situation during his appearance on Bloomberg Crypto.

Putin has expressed strong confidence in the capabilities and future prospects of Russia's new weapons systems. He highlighted their advanced technology and strategic importance, emphasizing the nation's commitment to enhancing its military strength.