Trump-Xi meeting: US president says rare earths deal and tariff reduction agreed in crunch trade talks

Kimberly-Clark reported a significant 51% drop in profit for the third quarter, primarily due to divestitures and business exits, alongside the impact of recent tariffs. Despite this decline, the company saw a slight increase in organic sales, indicating some resilience in its core operations. This news is important as it highlights the challenges faced by major corporations in navigating market pressures while still managing to grow sales.

Volkswagen's CFO has indicated that U.S. tariffs are likely to remain in place, projecting a significant financial impact of approximately $5.83 billion. This news is crucial as it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by automakers in navigating trade policies, which could affect pricing, production costs, and ultimately, consumer choices in the automotive market.

The US has received a temporary reprieve from China regarding rare earth exports, which are crucial for various technologies. This development is significant as it highlights ongoing trade tensions and the importance of securing these materials for the US economy. While this pause may provide some relief, it does not indicate a complete rollback of previous restrictions, suggesting that the trade relationship remains complex and fraught with challenges.

The ongoing government shutdown is causing significant distress for millions of American workers, with food stamps at risk and hundreds of thousands of federal employees facing unpaid leave. President Donald Trump's actions during this crisis have raised concerns, as he appears to be using the situation to politically undermine the Democrats while exacerbating the hardships faced by workers and their families. This situation highlights the broader implications of political maneuvering on everyday lives, making it a critical issue for many.

In a recent meeting in South Korea, Donald Trump expressed optimism about reaching a trade deal with China, stating it could happen 'pretty soon.' This is significant as it reflects a potential thaw in trade tensions between the two economic giants, which could have positive implications for global markets and economies.

Today, the stock market is reacting to mixed news as the U.S. agrees to cut tariffs on China, which could ease trade tensions. However, Meta's stock is taking a hit due to the company's increasing investments in AI, raising concerns among investors about profitability. This situation highlights the delicate balance between fostering international trade relations and the pressures of corporate spending, making it a critical moment for market watchers.

Oil prices have taken a hit even after President Trump announced plans to reduce tariffs on China following discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This decline highlights the ongoing volatility in the oil market, which remains sensitive to geopolitical developments and trade relations. The situation is significant as it reflects broader economic concerns that could impact global markets.

U.S. futures and global markets are showing mixed signals following comments from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who tempered expectations for a potential interest rate cut in December. This comes alongside an agreement by the U.S. to reduce tariffs on Chinese goods, which could have implications for trade relations. Investors are closely watching these developments as they navigate the complexities of the economic landscape.

A recent survey reveals that Canadians are increasingly postponing their long-term goals due to the rising cost of living and economic pressures. This trend highlights the financial strain many are experiencing, making it harder to save for the future. Understanding this shift is crucial as it reflects broader economic challenges that could impact consumer behavior and financial planning across the country.

Candy companies are quietly altering their recipes to reduce cocoa content as rising cocoa prices, driven by climate change, impact their bottom line. This shift not only affects the taste and quality of beloved treats but also raises concerns about the sustainability of cocoa farming and its implications for farmers. As consumers become more aware of these changes, it highlights the broader issue of how climate change is reshaping industries and the products we enjoy.

Arvinas has received a boost in its stock price target, now set at $14, up from $10, thanks to a positive assessment from BTIG regarding the potential of its KRASG12D degrader. This increase reflects growing confidence in the company's innovative approach to cancer treatment, which could significantly impact the market and provide new hope for patients. Investors are likely to view this as a strong signal of Arvinas' future prospects.

Oppenheimer has lowered its stock price target for Clean Harbors to $237, indicating a cautious outlook for the company. This adjustment reflects concerns about market conditions and the company's performance, which could impact investor confidence and stock value. It's important for stakeholders to monitor these changes as they may influence future investment decisions.

Flutter Entertainment's stock price target has been lowered to $321 by BTIG, reflecting concerns about the company's future performance. This adjustment is significant as it may influence investor confidence and market perception, potentially impacting Flutter's stock value in the coming months.

XPO has reported earnings that exceeded expectations by $0.05, along with revenue that surpassed estimates. This positive performance highlights the company's strong operational capabilities and market position, which could boost investor confidence and attract more interest in their stock.